Dr. Carla Barnett, Secretary-General of the Caribbean Community (CARICOM), has issued a compelling call for international cooperation to address the mounting insurance costs plaguing the tourism industry in Small Island Developing States (SIDS). Speaking at the 6th Global Services Forum during the 16th United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD16), Dr. Barnett underscored the severe vulnerabilities of CARICOM’s service-driven economies to climate-related disruptions. She emphasized that rising insurance premiums for older tourism properties and the near-impossibility of securing coverage for new investments pose significant threats to the region’s economic stability. The forum, centered on the theme “Services: A New Frontier of Economic Transformation for Equitable, Inclusive and Sustainable Development,” highlighted the services sector’s critical role in driving global GDP, which accounts for approximately two-thirds of economic output. In CARICOM nations like The Bahamas, Saint Lucia, and Barbados, services contribute up to 75% of GDP, while even more diversified economies such as Trinidad and Tobago and Jamaica rely on services for around 60% of their economic activity. Dr. Barnett also addressed the tourism sector’s heightened anxiety during extreme weather events, such as Hurricane Melissa, and stressed the need for preparedness and resilience. She advocated for strengthened international partnerships with organizations like UNCTAD, the World Trade Organization (WTO), and international development banks to bridge structural gaps and enhance institutional capacities. One key initiative highlighted was UNCTAD’s Trade in Services project, which focuses on building data infrastructure to support evidence-based policymaking. The CARICOM services sector spans diverse industries, including tourism, financial services, ICT, professional services, and entertainment. Dr. Barnett reiterated that targeted global support is essential to unlocking the sector’s potential and safeguarding it against the escalating impacts of climate change.
分类： business
-
Govt accelerates $20bn energy transformation plan
Barbados is poised to embark on a transformative renewable energy journey, as the government accelerates its Energy Transition Investment Plan, a multibillion-dollar initiative expected to save the island $16 billion over the next decade and generate thousands of green jobs. Minister of Foreign Affairs and Foreign Trade Kerrie Symmonds announced the plan in Parliament on Tuesday, emphasizing its potential to reshape the nation’s energy landscape and economy.
-
Long Bay Brewing Marks Milestone with Eye on Regional Market
The Long Bay Brewing Company, a proud Antiguan-owned enterprise, recently opened its doors to the public, commemorating three successful years of beer production under the Barrett Group. During an open house event held on Tuesday, attendees were treated to an exclusive tour of the brewery and had the opportunity to sample its diverse range of beers, including lager, IPA, and stout. Originally catering to hotels and bars, the company has now ventured into the retail market with a new line of canned beers, marking a significant milestone in its growth trajectory.
In addition to its product expansion, Long Bay Brewing has solidified its brand presence through strategic sponsorships of major events such as Carnival 2025, Caribana in Barbuda, and The Melting Pot Show. Francis, a representative of the company, emphasized that these sponsorships reflect the brewery’s deep connection to community and celebration. “Long Bay Beer is more than just a product; it’s a symbol of our cultural heritage and shared joy,” he stated.
Currently, the brewery distributes its products island-wide, producing up to 2,000 cases weekly, with the potential to scale up to 3,000 cases. While the primary focus remains on the local market, Francis hinted at broader regional aspirations. “We take immense pride in brewing our beers right here in Antigua and Barbuda,” he said. “Our vision is to create a brand that proudly carries the Antiguan name across the Caribbean, showcasing our craftsmanship and dedication to quality.”
-
Tourism Figures Show Seasonal Slowdown but Steady U.S. Market Growth
The tourism sector in Antigua and Barbuda continues to exhibit its characteristic seasonal trends, with the summer months presenting persistent challenges for hoteliers. According to the latest data from the Antigua and Barbuda Hotels and Tourist Association (ABHTA), average hotel occupancy in August 2025 stood at 60.4 percent, a slight increase from the 59.9 percent recorded in the same month the previous year. However, September witnessed a notable decline, with occupancy dropping to 42 percent compared to 46.2 percent in 2024.
For the first seven months of 2025, stay-over arrivals reached 205,893, marking a modest rise from the 205,004 visitors during the same period in 2024. The United States remains the dominant source market, contributing over half of all stay-over tourists, with arrivals increasing to 115,599 from 109,016 in 2024. The United Kingdom follows as the second-largest market, with 44,007 arrivals, up from 42,152 the previous year. Canada, while ranking third, experienced an 18 percent decline, with 17,578 visitors compared to 20,660 in 2024.
Despite the seasonal dip, industry leaders perceive the marginal year-on-year improvements as a sign of steady resilience in Antigua and Barbuda’s core tourism markets, even amidst global travel uncertainties.
-
Room for debate as Uber enters Barbados
Uber officially debuted its ride-hailing services in Barbados last Tuesday with a high-profile event at the Hilton Barbados. The launch introduced three key offerings: Uber Taxi, Uber Reserve, and Uber Hourly. Uber Taxi allows passengers to book rides to their desired destinations, while Uber Reserve enables users to schedule trips up to 90 days in advance or as close as 30 minutes before pickup. Uber Hourly provides the option to hire a driver by the hour, catering to tourists needing airport transfers or island tours.
-
Zemi Miches All-Inclusive Resort opens in the Dominican Republic
Miches, Dominican Republic – Grupo Facera has unveiled the Zemi Miches All-Inclusive Resort, Curio Collection by Hilton, marking a historic milestone as the first all-inclusive property under the Curio Collection brand in the Dominican Republic. The grand opening ceremony was graced by President Luis Abinader, alongside government officials, investors, and key stakeholders, signaling a significant boost for the region’s tourism sector.
Hilton’s leadership lauded the resort as a strategic achievement, blending the brand’s world-class hospitality with the distinctive elegance of the Curio Collection. Jorge Giannattasio, Hilton’s Senior Vice President for the Caribbean and Latin America, emphasized that the project sets a new benchmark for regional hospitality, further elevating Miches as an emerging destination.
For the Ranieri family, founders of Zemi Hotels & Resorts, the opening represents a continuation of their 128-year legacy of investing in Dominican tourism. The resort underscores their commitment to sustainable growth, community development, and creating opportunities for local residents. To date, the project has generated approximately 1,100 direct jobs and over 4,000 indirect employment opportunities.
President Abinader commended the trust placed by international investors and Hilton, while Tourism Minister David Collado highlighted Miches as a rising star in the tourism landscape. He praised Zemi Miches for its unique concept, which draws inspiration from Dominican identity and Taíno heritage, offering a culturally immersive experience.
Opened to the public in June 2025, Zemi Miches seamlessly integrates contemporary design with Taíno influences, utilizing natural materials and local craftsmanship. Developed with a $225 million investment, supported by financing from Banreservas, the resort promises authentic luxury experiences and positions Miches as a premier destination for travelers seeking excellence and cultural enrichment.
-
Saint Kitts and Nevis poised for steady economic growth in 2026 and beyond
The economy of Saint Kitts and Nevis is on track for sustained growth in 2026 and beyond, according to projections shared during the Budget 2026 National Forum. Acting Financial Secretary Mr. Carlton Pogson outlined the nation’s economic outlook at the event held on October 29, 2025, at the St. Kitts Marriott Resort. Pogson emphasized that while the growth rate for 2025 is expected to be modest at 1.1 percent, it signifies a return to pre-pandemic economic stability. This tempered growth reflects the tapering of post-pandemic recovery efforts and sets a solid foundation for future expansion. Inflation has also seen a significant decline, dropping from highs of 2.7 percent in 2022 and 3.6 percent in 2023 to a modest 1.0 percent in 2024 and 0.6 percent as of August 2025. Looking ahead, the medium-term outlook from 2026 to 2030 is more optimistic, with average annual growth projected at 2.5 percent. By the end of the decade, GDP is expected to reach EC$2.7 billion, driven by broad-based growth across all sectors. Key industries such as Agriculture and Fishing, Construction, and Hotels and Restaurants are anticipated to play pivotal roles in this expansion. Despite these positive trends, Pogson cautioned that external factors such as geopolitical tensions, global economic slowdowns, and climate change could pose challenges. Nonetheless, the government remains committed to fostering a resilient and diversified economy, aligned with the Sustainable Island State Agenda (SISA), to enhance the quality of life for all citizens and residents.
-
Gajadien hekelt gebrek aan transparantie bij verkoop obligaties
Asis Gajadien, leader of the VHP parliamentary faction, has launched a scathing critique of Suriname’s government over its handling of the recent sale of 7.95% Cash/PIK Notes maturing in 2033. Gajadien asserts that the transaction was executed without adhering to the legal requirements governing the issuance, modification, or repayment of state debt. He emphasizes that all debt operations, whether issuing new bonds or repaying existing ones, must be pre-approved in the National Debt Plan and authorized by a government decree. Gajadien further argues that if repayment is facilitated through new borrowing, such financing must also be included in the Debt Plan beforehand. He deems it unacceptable that these decisions were not discussed with the National Assembly in advance, stressing that transactions impacting public debt should not occur behind closed doors. While acknowledging that the operation could potentially reduce debt if Suriname secures cheaper financing, Gajadien warns of the risks of costlier loans or opaque fees, which could exacerbate the debt burden. The total outstanding amount exceeds USD 693 million, with the tender process in New York concluding today and settlements scheduled for November 4. Gajadien recalls proposals made earlier this year for transparent and structured exploration of such opportunities, which were never acted upon. He criticizes the government’s lack of transparency, which fuels speculation and undermines public trust, and calls for immediate disclosure of transaction details, including amounts, interest rates, and fees. Gajadien warns of requesting an urgent Assembly meeting if the government fails to provide the necessary information, underscoring the importance of transparency in maintaining confidence in Suriname’s debt management.
-
Agribusiness : Haitian cocoa at the World Chocolate Fair in Paris
From October 29 to November 2, 2025, Haitian cocoa will be prominently featured at the 30th edition of the World Chocolate Fair (Salon Mondial du Chocolat) in Paris. This prestigious event, held at the Porte de Versailles, will showcase the unique flavors and rich heritage of Haitian cocoa, supported by the International Labour Organization (ILO) through the Project for Strengthening Agricultural Opportunities through Training and Technological Investment (P.R.O.F.I.T.), funded by the Norwegian Ministry of Foreign Affairs. Key stakeholders from Haiti’s southern cocoa sector, including Ayitika, Kaleos S.A., Kaûna, Ralph Leroy, the Ddaga Departmental Directorate of Agriculture, and Geonova, will participate to exhibit and sell cocoa products and derivatives, highlighting the economic potential of this crop. Companies like Kaleos, Kaûna, and Leroy Chocolat will present a range of cocoa-based products, including chocolate bars, cocoa powder, cocoa butter, hot chocolate, and the world premiere of the gluten-free ‘Choucoune’ biscuit made with breadfruit flour and cocoa. Haitian cocoa, primarily the Criollo and Trinitario varieties, is celebrated for its exceptional quality and historical significance. Criollo, known for its sweet flavor and aromatic richness, boasts a purity exceeding 90%. These varieties, introduced to Haiti by the Taíno people during the pre-Columbian era, are highly prized by European chocolatiers and fine pastry chefs. In 2023, cocoa ranked as Haiti’s second-largest primary export, with annual production of 5,000 tons generating approximately $8 million in revenue. However, less than 10% of Haiti’s total cocoa production is exported as fermented cocoa, underscoring the untapped potential of this industry.
-
Franco-Dominican Chamber to Celebrate France Week 2025 in Santo Domingo
Santo Domingo is set to host France Week from November 12 to 15 at the JW Marriott Hotel, organized by the Franco-Dominican Chamber of Commerce and Industry (CCIFD). This prestigious event, themed “Blue Economy and Smart Cities,” will bring together over 800 participants, including business leaders, investors, and government officials, to strengthen economic ties between France and the Dominican Republic. The forum will focus on key areas such as sustainable mobility, energy innovation, waste management, and green finance, aiming to foster collaboration and showcase cutting-edge projects. The opening day on November 12 will feature a welcome cocktail to celebrate Franco-Dominican business excellence. On November 13, President Luis Abinader will officially inaugurate the event alongside CCIFD President Eury Vásquez and French representatives. Sessions will highlight technological innovation and the energy transition, followed by a business luncheon led by Minister Ito Bisonó and B2B meetings to connect companies across sectors. The event will conclude on November 15 with a cultural day celebrating French art and elegance, including a conference at the Alliance Française and the Chic à la Française Walk at Blue Mall, offering exclusive activities for visitors. France Week, held biennially, is organized by the CCIFD, a non-profit network of over 210 companies dedicated to promoting economic relations between the two nations. The event is supported by the French Embassy, ProDominicana, Business France, AFD, Proparco, Sofratesa, Aerodom/Vinci Airports, Alstom, Altice Dominicana, and Banco Popular Dominicano, among others.