As Trinidad and Tobago (TT) adapts to a rapidly evolving global energy landscape, the nation is charting a bold new course. At the forefront of this transformation is a strategic pivot toward large-scale wind energy deployment, coupled with green hydrogen and green ammonia production. This initiative is poised to become TT’s next major economic driver, ensuring its competitiveness in a world increasingly focused on decarbonization.
分类： business
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From local to legendary: Is export readiness key for SMEs?
For entrepreneurs and senior-level employees in Trinidad and Tobago’s small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), achieving export readiness is a significant milestone. The Trinidad and Tobago Chamber of Commerce (TT Chamber) has long emphasized this goal through its Contact Magazine and various initiatives, offering incentives, support services, and financing options to help businesses scale from micro to large enterprises. Both public and private sectors have introduced technical and operational growth programs, including the TT Chamber’s inaugural SME Conference, ‘Catalyst,’ aimed at fostering SME development. However, while some SMEs have achieved remarkable regional and international success, many still struggle to break through. This raises critical questions about policy environments, financing accessibility, and the effectiveness of public and private support systems. Marc Sandy, Manager of the Trade & Business Development Unit at the TT Chamber, highlights that while these factors are important, the entrepreneur’s passion and commitment to building a sustainable brand are paramount. One standout example is Farm and Function, a local agro-processing company that has expanded its regional footprint despite challenges, including the COVID-19 pandemic. Founded by David Thomas and Rachel Renie-Gonsalves, the company evolved from d’Market Movers, an online fresh produce distributor, into a leading supplier of frozen fruits. Farm and Function’s success story underscores the importance of resilience, strategic pivoting, and a clear vision. As SMEs navigate the complexities of export readiness, they must ask themselves fundamental questions about their ambitions, adaptability, and discipline. The journey from local to legendary demands not only financial and operational readiness but also an unwavering commitment to a global vision.
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‘AI amplifies human intelligence’, says expert
KINGSTON, Jamaica — Amid growing concerns about artificial intelligence (AI) replacing human roles, Adrian Dunkley, founder and CEO of Star Apple AI, reassured human resource professionals that AI’s true potential lies in enhancing human intelligence, not replacing it. Dunkley’s remarks were delivered during the Human Resource Management Association of Jamaica’s (HRMAJ) launch of HRM Week 2025, held from October 5 to 10 under the theme, ‘Transforming Work: Human-Centered Leadership in the Age of AI.’
Speaking at the HRMAJ webinar titled ‘Empowering People with AI,’ Dunkley emphasized that AI serves as a tool to amplify human capabilities rather than diminish them. ‘AI didn’t replace human intelligence; it amplified it,’ he stated. He highlighted the transformative potential of AI in freeing employees from routine tasks, enabling them to focus on creativity, innovation, and meaningful connections. ‘The real opportunity lies in using AI to make work more human,’ he added.
Dunkley also shared insights from Caribbean organizations already leveraging AI, noting an average weekly time savings of five hours per employee. He underscored the importance of leadership in fostering trust and collaboration, stating, ‘When leaders help employees understand and experiment safely with AI, confidence and collaboration grow.’
Dr. Cassida Jones Johnson, President of HRMAJ, echoed these sentiments, emphasizing the rise of emotional intelligence as a critical leadership skill in the AI era. ‘As AI takes over routine and analytical tasks, emotional intelligence is fast becoming the defining skill of successful leaders,’ she said. Dr. Jones Johnson also stressed the irreplaceable value of human insight, emotion, and connection, asserting that the most effective leaders combine intelligence with empathy and ethics.
HRMAJ further highlighted the growing importance of empathy, creativity, adaptability, and ethical decision-making in leadership, citing World Economic Forum predictions that these skills will be in high demand by 2030. The association also emphasized the significance of neurodiversity, psychological safety, and inclusive leadership in building resilient and innovative workplaces.
HRM Week 2025 set the stage for HRMAJ’s annual conference, scheduled for November 12–13, 2025, at the Pegasus Hotel in New Kingston. The conference will explore the theme ‘From Strategy to Impact: Mastering Leadership Excellence Through HR,’ further delving into the intersection of AI and human-centered leadership.
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Mystic India Opens in Panama
What started as a celebrated wedding catering service has now evolved into Panama’s first fine dining Indian restaurant. Mystic India, after nearly a decade of creating unforgettable culinary experiences at grand Indian weddings across Panama, has officially launched its permanent establishment. This new venture offers residents and visitors a unique blend of authentic Indian flavors, artistic presentation, and exceptional hospitality. Since 2014, the Mystic India team has been traveling annually to Panama to cater lavish Indian weddings, earning a reputation for consistency, quality, and unmatched flavor. Their dedication has secured the trust of numerous Indian families who repeatedly invite them to celebrate their most cherished occasions. ‘We’ve had the honour of being invited to cater weddings in Panama for over a decade,’ a spokesperson for Mystic India shared. ‘Each year, our team travels to Panama to create unforgettable culinary experiences. Guests would often ask, ‘Why don’t you open a restaurant in Panama?’’ That opportunity recently arose, and the team seized it, transforming their years of passion and expertise into a permanent culinary landmark. The result is Mystic India, a stunning new restaurant that redefines the perception of Indian cuisine in Panama. With elegant décor, warm service, and an inventive menu, Mystic India has quickly captivated food lovers across the city. The restaurant’s soft opening was met with overwhelming enthusiasm, with a fully booked first night and steady reservations ever since. The buzz continues to grow as the team prepares for its grand opening on October 18, marking a new era for fine dining in Panama City. ‘Mystic India isn’t just about food — it’s about sharing culture, celebration, and connection,’ shared founder Karina Mahbubani. ‘Panama has always welcomed us with open arms during weddings and special events, and now, we’re honoured to make it our home.’ With its blend of traditional recipes, modern presentation, and impeccable consistency, Mystic India promises to be a destination where every meal feels like a celebration.
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Average Pension Payments could reach EC$3,000 within a few years
In a remarkable development, average pension payments in Antigua and Barbuda have more than doubled in recent years, soaring from approximately EC$1,000 to around EC$2,100. According to David Mathias, Executive Director of the Social Security Board, this upward trajectory could see pensions reaching EC$3,000 within the next few years. This surge is attributed to higher contribution levels and the increasing longevity of retirees, which has placed greater strain on the fund’s resources. Mathias emphasized that each new retiree is contributing at higher rates but also drawing more from the system due to longer lifespans. While short-term contribution income remains stable, long-term liabilities are outpacing inflows, raising concerns about the fund’s sustainability. Traditional solutions, such as increasing contribution rates or raising the pensionable age, have been met with public resistance. To address this, the Social Security Board has pivoted toward generating income through strategic investments. A key initiative is the government-backed redevelopment of the Jolly Beach Resort, which will be financed by the government and later transferred to the Social Security Board as equity. This innovative approach allows the fund to benefit from dividends and hotel revenues without directly utilizing contributors’ money. Transparency is ensured through monthly and quarterly reporting to Cabinet, and an expanded investment committee comprising banking and valuation experts will oversee the process. The ultimate goal is to bolster the fund’s cash flow, build a sustainable reserve, and ensure timely pension payments even during economic downturns. This forward-thinking strategy aims to secure the financial stability of Antigua and Barbuda’s social security system for future generations.
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LIAT to Launch Santo Domingo Route in December
LIAT Air has announced the launch of a new route to Santo Domingo, the capital of the Dominican Republic, starting December 12. This expansion is part of the airline’s broader strategy to revive its regional network and enhance connectivity across the Caribbean. The new service will provide a direct link between Antigua and Santo Domingo, with one-way fares beginning at US$348, inclusive of taxes. In a social media post on Monday, LIAT described Santo Domingo as a ‘vibrant cultural hub’ and urged travelers to secure their bookings early via the airline’s website or customer service line. The introduction of this route represents a significant milestone for LIAT 2020 as it continues to re-establish key regional connections and strengthen its presence in the Caribbean market. This move is expected to boost tourism and economic ties between the two destinations, offering travelers more options for exploring the region.
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Brewery president highlights over RD$17 billion invested since 2021
Santo Domingo – Fabián Suárez, President of the Dominican National Brewery (CND), revealed that the company has invested over RD$17.64 billion since 2021, a strategic move driven by the Dominican Republic’s economic stability and its attractiveness to foreign investors. Suárez emphasized that the cornerstone of AB InBev’s sustained investment in the country is the exceptional talent of the Dominican workforce, which has positioned the nation as a leading market in the Caribbean and beyond. His comments were made during the inauguration of the company’s new Logistics Transformation Hub, an event graced by President Luis Abinader. The state-of-the-art logistics center, a key component of CND’s 2021–2026 investment plan, spans 145,000 square meters on the Santo Domingo Beltway and represents an investment exceeding RD$2.9 billion. Designed for maximum operational efficiency, the facility can store 115 million beers, equivalent to 25 days of national demand, and is expected to create over 500 direct and indirect jobs. This project complements the 44,000 jobs already supported by the beer industry nationwide, aiming to enhance production capacity, streamline distribution, and advance sustainability efforts to bolster national development. Víctor “Ito” Bisonó, Minister of Industry and Commerce, hailed the new hub as a testament to investor confidence in the Dominican economy, citing the country’s stable economic climate and record-breaking foreign direct investment, which reached US$4.523 billion in 2024 and is projected to hit US$5 billion by year-end. He also commended CND’s achievements in operating entirely on renewable energy, producing its own glass bottles, and maintaining a fully integrated supply chain.
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Wereldbank ondersteunt route naar sterkere toerismesector
The Surinamese government has identified the tourism sector as a key driver of economic growth, unveiling a new marketing strategy to propel its development. Presented by Simon McArthur & Associates (SMA) Tourism, an international consultancy firm, the strategy was introduced at the Cabinet of the President as part of a World Bank-supported initiative to strengthen the tourism industry. This follows an earlier presentation on the Value Chain for Tourism. Simon McArthur, Managing Director of SMA Tourism, highlighted Suriname’s exceptional tourism potential but noted a lack of clear positioning. ‘Promoting too many diverse products simultaneously creates confusion,’ McArthur stated. ‘We recommend a unified strategy focusing on one or two core aspects—our suggestion is culture and nature. Suriname offers unique experiences unmatched anywhere in the world.’ McArthur emphasized that visitors could become Suriname’s best ambassadors if experiences are consistently and professionally delivered, as reported by the Suriname Communication Service. However, he also pointed out structural challenges hindering tourism growth, including the absence of specialized tourism programs at local universities, a shortage of qualified personnel in the ministry and sector, and practical obstacles like limited international flight connections and a lack of efficient e-commerce systems for foreign payments. Minister Raymond Landveld of Transport, Communication, and Tourism acknowledged the critical observations made during the presentation but viewed them as opportunities for improvement. ‘It’s better to face reality than to mask it,’ he said. ‘We must now focus on making these plans actionable. The current policy direction shows immense potential.’ Rachel Pinas, Tourism Advisor at the Cabinet of the President, emphasized that operationalizing the Suriname Tourism Authority (STA) remains a top priority. ‘The law and governance structure are in place, but funding details need to be finalized,’ Pinas explained. ‘Once active, the STA will oversee promotion, marketing, and sector certification, as seen in other countries.’ The SMA Tourism marketing strategy is expected to be finalized by the end of this year, with implementation to follow by the government and industry stakeholders.
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Belize Secures $12.5M Kuwait Loan to Transform George Price Highway
Belize has taken a significant step toward enhancing its transportation infrastructure with a $12.5 million loan agreement signed with the Kuwait Fund for Arab Economic Development. The funding, secured during the World Bank and IMF Annual Meetings, will be allocated to modernize an 18-mile segment of the George Price Highway, stretching from Belmopan to La Democracia. The ambitious project includes the construction of new service lanes, upgraded bridges, and 16 dedicated bus stop lanes, all aimed at improving safety, efficiency, and convenience for commuters and trade activities. This collaboration builds on a long-standing partnership between Belize and Kuwait, which dates back to the 1990s. Over the decades, the Kuwait Fund has supported Belize in developing critical roadways such as the Southern Highway, the Hummingbird Highway, and the Caracol Road. The agreement was formalized by Belize’s Financial Secretary, Joseph Waight, and Waleed Al-Bahar, Acting Director General of the Kuwait Fund. This initiative underscores Belize’s commitment to advancing its infrastructure and fostering economic growth through strategic international partnerships.
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Economy : BRH presents Haiti’s progress to the IMF
On October 13, 2025, during the Annual Meetings of the International Monetary Fund (IMF) and the World Bank, the Bank of the Republic of Haiti (BRH) engaged in high-level discussions with IMF officials to highlight Haiti’s economic advancements and future collaboration prospects. The meeting, held in Washington, D.C., featured Ronald Gabriel, Governor of the BRH, and Alfred Métellus, Haiti’s Minister of Economy and Finance, alongside key IMF representatives including Nigel Clarke, Deputy Managing Director; André Roncaglia, Executive Director for Haiti; and Camillo Tovar, Mission Chief. The discussions centered on the second review of the Staff Monitored Program (SMP) and explored avenues for continued support in Haiti’s economic and institutional reforms. Governor Gabriel outlined Haiti’s significant achievements, such as maintaining zero monetary financing to ensure fiscal discipline, enhancing the prudential framework with anti-money laundering measures, stabilizing the exchange rate, advancing financial inclusion strategies, and bolstering foreign exchange reserves. These efforts underscored Haiti’s commitment to macroeconomic stability and institutional strengthening. The meeting reinforced the collaborative spirit between Haiti and the IMF, paving the way for sustained reforms and economic recovery.