分类: business

  • Over 600 Albany employees to share in $2m golf course lot sale

    Over 600 Albany employees to share in $2m golf course lot sale

    Albany, the luxury resort community on New Providence, has announced an extraordinary employee reward initiative following the successful sale of a golf course lot. More than 600 staff members will collectively receive a $2 million distribution from the property transaction.

    The resort revealed that 254 employees who have maintained continuous service since 2021 will receive approximately $4,500 each, while the total distribution will benefit 636 team members across the organization. This substantial financial recognition stems from Albany’s commitment to sharing success with those who contribute to it.

    Managing Partner Christopher Anand made the announcement during the Employee Appreciation Event in January 2026, detailing how proceeds from ‘The Albany Lot’ sale would be allocated directly to staff. The distribution represents part of Albany’s broader strategic approach to employee investment, which includes implementing a comprehensive pension program for all workers.

    ‘Albany recognized that people remain committed when they were invested in the outcome,’ the resort stated, explaining the philosophy behind this substantial financial gesture. Company leadership emphasized that supporting team members has always been a organizational priority, viewing success as a collective achievement rather than an individual accomplishment.

    The luxury resort, known for its high-end residential properties and private golf course within a master-planned development, markets exclusive real estate while maintaining a strong focus on staff welfare. This latest initiative demonstrates Albany’s innovative approach to employee retention and appreciation through direct financial participation in the resort’s assets and achievements.

  • Geneva George becomes first woman to earn prestigious credentials as International Airport Professional

    Geneva George becomes first woman to earn prestigious credentials as International Airport Professional

    The global aviation industry has witnessed a groundbreaking achievement with Geneva George becoming the inaugural female recipient of the esteemed International Airport Professional (IAP) designation. This certification, governed by the Airports Council International (ACI) and the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO), represents the highest standard of excellence in airport management worldwide.

    Ms. George’s accomplishment shatters longstanding gender barriers in aviation leadership, demonstrating exceptional expertise across all critical airport operational domains. The rigorous IAP certification process evaluates competencies in airport safety protocols, strategic terminal management, airside operations, commercial development, and regulatory compliance within international frameworks.

    This milestone occurs amid industry-wide initiatives to promote gender diversity in aviation leadership roles where women remain significantly underrepresented. Aviation authorities globally have praised this achievement as both a personal triumph for Ms. George and a symbolic victory for gender parity in transportation infrastructure management.

    The certification equips professionals with advanced skills to address contemporary aviation challenges including sustainable airport development, digital transformation, and crisis management. Industry analysts note that diverse leadership perspectives become increasingly valuable as airports evolve into complex, multi-functional transportation hubs requiring innovative management approaches.

  • Construction of Cabo Rojo Airport advances on schedule

    Construction of Cabo Rojo Airport advances on schedule

    PEDERNALES, Dominican Republic – Infrastructure development in the Dominican Republic’s southern region is accelerating as the Cabo Rojo International Airport project advances according to its established timeline. José Ignacio Paliza, Minister of the Presidency, confirmed the progress during an extensive site inspection in the Tres Charcos community of Oviedo, Pedernales.

    The critical paving phase for the airport’s runway is now underway, with completion anticipated by September 2024. This milestone represents a significant step forward in the government’s comprehensive strategy to transform the southern region into a premier tourism destination.

    The inspection brought together key stakeholders and technical experts overseeing the project, including Sigmund Freund, Executive Director of the Pro Pedernales Trust; Víctor Pichardo, Director of the Airport Department; Igor Rodríguez of the Dominican Institute of Civil Aviation; and Alfonso Rodríguez of the Dominican Electricity Transmission Company.

    Officials conducted a thorough review of multiple infrastructure components, examining progress on taxiways, advanced drainage systems, road access networks, and electrical installations. Additionally, authorities confirmed that the control tower structure is projected to reach completion by December, with procurement processes for essential operational equipment already in motion.

    The Cabo Rojo International Airport serves as the centerpiece of a broader tourism development initiative designed to stimulate economic growth, create employment opportunities, and establish new tourism corridors in the previously underdeveloped southern territories of the Dominican Republic.

  • Arajet unveils 14th aircraft honoring “Salto de Jimenoa”

    Arajet unveils 14th aircraft honoring “Salto de Jimenoa”

    Santo Domingo-based airline Arajet has welcomed its 14th Boeing 737 MAX 8 aircraft into service, marking another milestone in its ongoing expansion strategy. The newly arrived aircraft has been ceremoniously named “Salto de Jimenoa” after one of the Dominican Republic’s most spectacular waterfalls located in Jarabacoa, La Vega province. This naming convention reflects Arajet’s distinctive approach to branding its fleet after the nation’s protected ecological areas and natural reserves, effectively transforming each aircraft into an airborne ambassador for Dominican biodiversity.

    The Salto de Jimenoa waterfall, renowned for its breathtaking beauty and significance in Dominican ecotourism, represents the country’s growing adventure tourism sector. Arajet’s CEO and founder Víctor Pacheco Méndez emphasized that this acquisition significantly enhances the airline’s operational capabilities while reinforcing its commitment to sustainable aviation practices. “Each aircraft that bears the name of our natural heritage serves as a flying testament to our dedication to responsible tourism and environmental stewardship,” Pacheco stated.

    The expansion has garnered support from public officials, with La Vega Senator Rogelio Genao highlighting the vital collaboration between government and private enterprise in promoting sustainable tourism development. Since commencing operations in 2022, Arajet has substantially grown its route network from its Santo Domingo and Punta Cana hubs, simultaneously driving tourism growth, creating employment opportunities, and supporting environmental initiatives including reforestation and conservation programs.

    The airline’s strategic focus on operating a modern, fuel-efficient fleet aligns with its broader objectives of reducing carbon emissions and minimizing operational costs. This approach positions Arajet as both an economic contributor and an environmentally conscious player in the competitive Caribbean aviation market.

  • AIRD urges strict enforcement of labeling and health registration rules

    AIRD urges strict enforcement of labeling and health registration rules

    SANTO DOMINGO – The Association of Industries of the Dominican Republic (AIRD) has issued a firm declaration calling for the rigorous and uniform application of national labeling and sanitary registration standards for every product entering the Dominican market. This mandate applies universally, with no exceptions for goods based on their country of origin or distribution model.

    Central to the AIRD’s position is the strict adherence to existing regulations that compel all products to feature labeling in the Spanish language and display a valid health registration certificate issued by the competent national authority. The industry group characterizes these requirements as fundamental pillars for maintaining market transparency, protecting consumer rights, and upholding public health standards.

    Emphasizing the comprehensive scope of these rules, the AIRD clarified that compliance is obligatory for all entities within the supply chain. This includes domestic producers, international importers, and retail distributors, encompassing products marketed under private labels or as generic white-label brands. The association asserts that consistent enforcement is critical to maintaining a level competitive landscape.

    Mario Pujols, Executive Vice President of the AIRD, elaborated on the rationale behind this reinforced stance. He stated that vigilant regulatory observance serves a dual purpose: it empowers consumers with accurate and accessible product information, and it fosters equitable business practices by preventing companies from gaining an unfair market advantage through non-compliance.

    The AIRD has publicly reiterated its commitment to collaborative engagement, expressing readiness to partner with government authorities and commercial stakeholders alike. The ultimate objective of this cooperative effort is to bolster enforcement mechanisms and cultivate a commercial environment that prioritizes fairness, safety, and unequivocal transparency for all participants.

  • Pink Boutique: Bigger Store, Best Quality, Better You

    Pink Boutique: Bigger Store, Best Quality, Better You

    BELIZE CITY – In a significant development for Belize’s retail sector, prominent fashion retailer Pink Boutique has unveiled its newly expanded flagship location along the Philip Goldson Highway following an intensive two-month renovation period. The strategic expansion represents a substantial investment by the established brand to accommodate its rapidly growing customer base and evolving market demands.

    The revitalized retail space now offers an enhanced shopping environment characterized by increased floor space, improved lighting, and a comprehensive inventory featuring the latest trends in women’s and children’s apparel, footwear, and cosmetic products. Owner Shelly Perera celebrated the reopening with a special inaugural event featuring live piano music, complimentary refreshments, and store-wide promotional discounts.

    “Our primary objective remains delivering fashionable clothing options for women while expanding our offerings to include children’s wear and select menswear categories,” Perera stated during the opening ceremonies. The boutique chain currently maintains four physical locations across Belize, including establishments in San Ignacio, downtown Belize City, the Northern Highway, and San Pedro.

    Beyond physical expansion, Perera revealed ambitious plans for digital transformation and nationwide growth. “We intend to strengthen our online presence through social media platforms and are evaluating additional retail expansions in response to requests from various districts,” she confirmed.

    Customer response to the reopening has been overwhelmingly positive, with longstanding patrons expressing enthusiasm for the upgraded shopping experience. The boutique has committed to maintaining its elevated service standards and quality product offerings beyond the inaugural celebrations, ensuring consistent retail excellence throughout the year.

  • New study says China’s economic reach increasing in region, despite US objection

    New study says China’s economic reach increasing in region, despite US objection

    A comprehensive analysis reveals China’s rapidly expanding economic influence throughout Latin America and the Caribbean, with bilateral trade reaching a record $510 billion in 2024—nearly double the volume recorded a decade earlier. According to research from think tank ODI Global, China has solidified its position as the primary bilateral creditor and second-largest overall trading partner for the region, trailing only the United States.

    The detailed study, examining economic interactions from 2013 to 2024, demonstrates several transformative trends. Four nations—Brazil, Mexico, Chile, and Peru—account for 76% of China’s regional trade, with Brazil alone representing 36% of total merchandise exchange. Since 2018, more than half of Latin American and Caribbean countries have joined China’s Belt and Road Initiative, seeking infrastructure development and enhanced economic cooperation.

    Financial data shows China extended over $145 billion in loans to the region between 2013 and 2021, with majority being non-concessional financing. Notably, many countries now repay more to China than they borrow anew, with Beijing holding over half of the region’s official bilateral debt.

    Investment patterns are evolving significantly, with Chinese foreign direct investment shifting from traditional energy and mining sectors toward renewable energy and manufacturing. Clean energy investments surged by 50% between 2015-2019 and 2020-2024 periods, reflecting strategic diversification.

    Despite geopolitical tensions and U.S. efforts to discourage engagement, China’s economic relationships continue strengthening through trade networks, manufacturing partnerships, and integrated supply chains that extend beyond formal initiatives. Research Fellow Elena Kiryakova notes that competing powers must offer superior economic value rather than treating the region as an arena for geopolitical competition.

  • Simple Advisory Limited helps Woodcats raise $750m and list on the Junior Stock Exchange

    Simple Advisory Limited helps Woodcats raise $750m and list on the Junior Stock Exchange

    KINGSTON, Jamaica — Following its instrumental role in the fully-subscribed initial public offering (IPO) and offer for sale for Woodcats International, business advisory firm Simple Advisory Limited (SAL) is strategically enhancing its capabilities to facilitate capital access for Jamaican enterprises. The company announced its expansion plans Tuesday, revealing increased engagement from small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) seeking financial guidance for growth initiatives, capital investments, acquisitions, and debt reorganization.

    SAL served as special consultant for Woodcats International’s recent public market debut, overseeing a capital raising process that attracted more than 9,000 investors and reached complete subscription within the designated timeframe. As independent advisors, SAL implemented an objective and efficient framework that ensured regulatory compliance while maximizing investor participation.

    Woodcats General Manager Peter Douglas commended SAL’s performance, stating: “Our collaboration with SAL created a seamless fundraising experience. Their expertise granted us the operational freedom to maintain business continuity throughout this critical capital raising phase.”

    The advisory firm provided comprehensive strategic direction across multiple domains including business valuation, prospectus development, public relations campaigns, and precise transaction timing. SAL additionally facilitated coordination among essential stakeholders—legal counsel, marketing agencies, and brokerage firms—to achieve optimal offering outcomes.

    This successful transaction positions SAL as an emerging leader in Jamaica’s financial advisory landscape, particularly for companies navigating complex capital market transactions. The firm’s expanding client portfolio reflects growing demand for professional advisory services among Jamaican businesses pursuing structured growth and market expansion strategies.

  • Finance Minister attends PCT Tax and Development Conference in Japan

    Finance Minister attends PCT Tax and Development Conference in Japan

    Grenada’s Finance Minister Dennis Cornwall is leading the nation’s delegation at the prestigious Platform for Collaboration on Tax (PCT) Conference in Tokyo, Japan, from March 2-3, 2026. The high-level gathering at the Tokyo Prince Hotel brings together global tax experts to address critical issues in international taxation systems and development financing.

    Minister Cornwall is accompanied by Sheena Lewis, Comptroller of Grenada’s Inland Revenue Division, forming an expert delegation capable of engaging with complex fiscal policy matters. The exclusive conference focuses on enhancing both international and domestic tax frameworks, promoting cooperative taxation approaches, and advancing sustainable development goals through improved Domestic Revenue Mobilization strategies.

    The event has drawn participation from over 200 senior officials representing finance ministries, tax authorities, international organizations, and development agencies worldwide. Grenada’s inclusion follows a formal invitation from the PCT Secretariat, recognizing the nation’s recent advancements in tax administration, including the February launch of the innovative GTAX Platform by the Inland Revenue Division.

    During the conference, Minister Cornwall and Comptroller Lewis will actively participate in keynote addresses, expert panel discussions, and peer-learning sessions designed to share best practices and strengthen national revenue collection systems. These engagements will provide valuable insights for enhancing Grenada’s fiscal management capabilities.

    The Ministry of Finance emphasized that such international collaborations represent strategic priorities for ensuring Grenada’s fiscal framework maintains robustness, transparency, and alignment with global standards. These efforts directly support the nation’s objectives for sustained economic growth and comprehensive national development, positioning Grenada at the forefront of modern tax administration practices.

  • Teshena Marshall Wins $500 in Flow’s Riddim and Rewards Promotion

    Teshena Marshall Wins $500 in Flow’s Riddim and Rewards Promotion

    Telecommunications provider Flow has announced Teshena Marshall as the latest winner in its ongoing Riddim and Rewards promotional campaign, awarding her a $500 cash prize. The initiative, designed to engage customers through interactive participation, represents Flow’s continued investment in customer appreciation programs across its service regions.

    The Riddim and Rewards promotion incorporates musical elements with traditional reward mechanics, creating a distinctive engagement platform that distinguishes itself in the competitive telecommunications landscape. Participants typically encounter the promotion through various channels including digital platforms, direct marketing communications, and in-store activations.

    Company representatives emphasized that Marshall’s victory demonstrates the accessibility and transparency of their promotional structures. “We congratulate Teshena on her win and remain committed to creating rewarding experiences for our valued customers,” stated a Flow marketing executive during the prize notification process.

    Industry analysts note that such promotions serve dual purposes: enhancing brand loyalty while simultaneously collecting valuable consumer data that informs future marketing strategies and service developments. The $500 prize tier represents a mid-level reward within Flow’s broader promotional ecosystem, which often features both smaller instant wins and substantially larger grand prizes.

    This announcement coincides with increased competitive activity within the telecommunications sector, where customer retention initiatives have gained significance amid market saturation in many regions. Flow’s parent company, Liberty Latin America, has consistently supported such engagement tactics as part of its overarching customer acquisition and retention strategy.