Starting from midnight on Sunday, November 2, consumers will experience a marginal reduction in gasoline prices, with a one-cent decrease bringing the cost down to $3.94 per litre. However, this slight relief at the pump is offset by increases in other fuel types. Diesel prices will rise by two cents to $3.36 per litre, while kerosene will see a three-cent hike, reaching $1.51 per litre. Additionally, liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) prices will vary based on cylinder size: a 100lb cylinder will cost $170.97, a 25lb cylinder $47.84, a 22lb cylinder $42.27, and a 20lb cylinder $38.42. The next review of fuel prices is set for Sunday, December 7, as announced by BGIS/BT.
分类： business
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Economy : Towards the implementation of the One-Stop Investment Window
On October 30, 2025, Haiti took a significant step toward modernizing its investment landscape with the convening of the Steering Committee for the Electronic Single Window for Investment (GUI). Chaired by James Monazard, Minister of Commerce and Industry, the meeting marked the continuation of efforts to implement this transformative project, which was first initiated in 2019 and officially launched in July 2025. The GUI aims to centralize administrative procedures for investors on a single digital platform, drawing inspiration from successful models in Rwanda, Jamaica, Singapore, and Guyana. Minister Monazard emphasized the project’s potential to make Haiti a competitive economic destination by fostering transparency, reliability, and efficiency. Currently, investors face a cumbersome process involving over 12 steps and six institutions, often taking up to nine months to complete. The GUI seeks to streamline this process, leveraging technological advancements and addressing Haiti’s unique challenges. Marie Fatima Léonne C. Prophète, Director General of the Investment Facilitation Center (CFI), highlighted the project’s broader goals: attracting foreign direct investment, encouraging diaspora participation, and enhancing institutional coordination. The initiative is supported by a robust governance structure, including a Steering Committee and Technical Secretariat, with involvement from key institutions such as the General Customs Administration, the Ministry of Economy and Finance, and the Bank of the Republic of Haiti. Upcoming steps include developing a technological prototype, drafting specifications, and creating user manuals. However, challenges remain, including system interoperability, digital payment accessibility, and the establishment of a legal framework for electronic signatures. Despite these hurdles, the GUI represents a bold effort to modernize Haiti’s administration, reduce registration times, and boost investor confidence. If successful, the project could revolutionize the country’s business climate, contributing to the CFI’s strategic goals of 60 new investment projects and 35,000 jobs by 2027.
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PM Confirms Plans to Sell Caribbean Union Bank to Major Foreign Investor
Prime Minister Gaston Browne has revealed that the government is in advanced discussions with a prominent foreign banking group to sell its majority stake in Caribbean Union Bank (CUB). The announcement was made during his weekly radio program, *The Browne and Browne Show*, where he highlighted the nation’s economic progress and ongoing investment strategies. The government currently holds approximately 80% of CUB’s shares, acquired six years ago to rescue the bank from consistent losses under private ownership. Since then, CUB has turned profitable, though it remains a relatively small institution. Browne emphasized the need for a strategic partner capable of recapitalizing and expanding the bank’s operations. The potential buyer, a foreign banking group managing billions in assets, is expected to inject at least $100 million into CUB, significantly scaling its capabilities. The Prime Minister underscored that this move aligns with the government’s broader vision to modernize the financial sector and enhance banking services through technological innovation. He stressed the importance of adopting cutting-edge technology to meet evolving consumer demands, such as seamless mobile transactions. The ultimate goal is to transform CUB into a robust, well-capitalized institution that drives national development and improves access to financial services.
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PM Says $5 Million Allocated to National Housing for Jolly Beach Upgrades
Prime Minister Gaston Browne has announced a significant investment of US $5 million into the National Housing Corporation to initiate upgrades at Jolly Beach Resort. This move underscores the government’s commitment to enhancing tourism infrastructure, supported by the nation’s robust fiscal performance. The funds, already deposited into National Housing’s account, will be allocated to renovate 33 additional rooms, construct a state-of-the-art conference facility, and improve critical infrastructure such as electrical and sewer systems. Browne emphasized that the project is part of a broader strategy to revitalize key tourism assets while ensuring local agencies and contractors directly benefit from government initiatives. He highlighted that National Housing will oversee the execution of these upgrades. The Prime Minister also linked this investment to other recent capital expenditures, including the purchase of fire trucks, garbage trucks, heavy equipment, and even a plane and a crane, made possible by the country’s improved financial health. Browne attributed these developments to steady economic growth and disciplined fiscal management, stressing the importance of safeguarding public funds for their intended purposes.
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PM Says LIAT to Add Another Aircraft as Government Increases Investment
Prime Minister Gaston Browne of Antigua and Barbuda has announced a significant step in the revival of regional carrier LIAT, with plans to add another aircraft to its fleet in the coming weeks. This move is part of the government’s broader strategy to rebuild the airline and ensure its long-term sustainability. To support this expansion, the administration has allocated an additional US $4 million to cover the costs of parts and other operational requirements for the new aircraft. This latest investment adds to the approximately US $50 million already committed by the government to LIAT’s revival. Browne emphasized that the airline’s progress is a testament to the strength of Antigua and Barbuda’s economy, which has facilitated substantial capital investments across various sectors. He highlighted recent acquisitions, including seven fire trucks, ten garbage trucks, and US $21 million worth of heavy equipment for Public Works, as evidence of the government’s robust financial position. The Prime Minister also underscored the importance of LIAT’s expansion as a symbol of renewed confidence in regional connectivity and Antigua and Barbuda’s pivotal role as a hub for inter-Caribbean travel.
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Banks urge cash-back use as ABM network crippled by Hurricane Melissa
In the wake of Hurricane Melissa’s devastating impact on Jamaica, the island’s Automated Banking Machine (ABM) network has been largely incapacitated, prompting banks to encourage customers to utilize cash-back services at retail checkouts as a temporary solution. The Jamaica Bankers Association (JBA) has highlighted this feature, which allows debit cardholders to withdraw cash during purchases at participating merchants, as a crucial alternative during this period of widespread damage and service outages. The hurricane has caused significant disruptions to bank branches, ABMs, and point-of-sale systems, compounded by power failures, telecommunications breakdowns, blocked roads, and heightened security concerns such as vandalism and robbery attempts. Financial institutions are collaborating with the government and the Bank of Jamaica to prioritize the restoration of services in the most severely affected areas. While some branches have reopened with limited hours due to shortages of electricity, water, and internet access, many ABMs remain offline. The JBA has advised customers to monitor their bank’s social media channels for updates on operational branches and to utilize cash-back services at gas stations, supermarkets, and pharmacies. Online and mobile banking are recommended for balance checks, fund transfers, and bill payments, though contact center wait times may be extended. To assist customers facing financial strain, banks are offering relief measures such as payment deferrals, interest-only periods, and fee waivers. The JBA has also cautioned against a surge in fraud and scams, urging the public to verify donation appeals and avoid sharing sensitive information. Customers who have lost or damaged identification or bank documents are encouraged to contact their banks promptly. The JBA has appealed for public patience and cooperation as efforts continue to restore full banking services, with updates to be disseminated through official channels.
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Ansa McAL sells Standard Distributors to Term Finance
In a significant business move, Ansa McAL, a prominent conglomerate in Trinidad and Tobago, has sold its long-standing retail subsidiary, Standard Distributors, to Term Finance (TT). The deal, announced on November 3, includes Standard’s Barbados-based arm, Standard Distribution and Sales Barbados. The transaction is set to finalize by December 31, pending regulatory approvals. Term Finance plans to transform Standard into a dedicated credit provider and e-commerce platform, leveraging its 80-year legacy in hire-purchase services. The new entity, rebranded as Standard Credit, aims to offer innovative financial solutions while maintaining the trust of its loyal customer base. Standard’s retail outlets ceased operations on November 1, marking the end of an era for the iconic brand. Customers with active hire-purchase agreements will continue to receive support, with payments accepted at existing branches and through various digital channels. Ansa McAL has assured affected employees of redeployment opportunities or enhanced separation packages, alongside access to financial counselling and job fairs. The sale reflects Ansa McAL’s strategy to streamline operations while supporting Term Finance’s regional expansion. Founded in 1945, Standard Distributors joined the Ansa McAL Group in 1967, becoming a cornerstone of Caribbean retail. The transition underscores the evolving retail landscape, with a shift toward digital financial services.
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Youth Economy Agency: Shaping the businesspeople of the future
For years, young Saint Lucians faced significant barriers to entrepreneurship, lacking both financial resources and mentorship. However, the establishment of the Youth Economy Agency (YEA) in April 2023 has begun to change this narrative. Under the Youth Economy Act No. 17 of 2022, YEA provides young individuals aged 15 to 35 with access to finance, capacity building, and business support services, addressing critical issues like youth unemployment and low participation in the micro, small, and medium enterprise (MSME) sector.
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Winair Resumes Convenient Daily Flights to Nevis Beginning November 3
Windward Islands Airways International (Winair) has officially announced the reinstatement of daily direct flights between St. Maarten/St. Martin and Nevis’ Vance W. Amory International Airport, starting November 3, 2025. This strategic move is set to enhance regional connectivity and provide greater travel flexibility for both tourists and business travelers. The Honourable Mark Brantley, Premier of Nevis and Minister of Tourism, lauded the development, emphasizing its potential to bolster tourism and commerce on the island. ‘The expansion of Winair’s service between St. Maarten and Nevis is a testament to the growing confidence in Nevis and the strengthening partnership between the island and Winair,’ Brantley remarked. The new flight schedule includes departures from Nevis at 7:00 a.m. on Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, Friday, and Sunday, and from St. Maarten at 6:20 p.m. on Monday, Wednesday, Thursday, Saturday, and Sunday. Premier Brantley highlighted the convenience of the flight times, which facilitate seamless connections to Nevis’ primary international tourism markets via Princess Juliana Airport in St. Maarten. ‘This expanded service offers the people of Nevis and visitors a broader range of travel options, enhancing access to key markets in the United States, Canada, and Europe,’ he added. The resumption of daily flights is a significant step forward in strengthening Nevis’ regional airlift capabilities and supporting the island’s burgeoning tourism and business sectors.
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Big Edge Financial Independence Message
Big Edge Financial extends heartfelt congratulations to its valued customers, dedicated team, and the entire nation of Dominica on the occasion of the country’s 47th Anniversary of Independence. This milestone marks a significant moment in Dominica’s history, reflecting its resilience and progress as a nation. In celebration of this event, Big Edge Financial reaffirms its commitment to providing seamless and stress-free financial services to its clients, ensuring their financial well-being not only during this Independence season but also in the years to come. The company emphasizes its dedication to supporting the economic growth and stability of Dominica, aligning its mission with the nation’s aspirations for a prosperous future. As Dominica continues to evolve, Big Edge Financial remains a trusted partner in empowering individuals and businesses with innovative financial solutions tailored to their needs.