Carib Scope

分类： business

  • Nevis cruise season intensifies as 19 vessels scheduled to arrive between February-April 2026 – WIC News

    Nevis cruise season intensifies as 19 vessels scheduled to arrive between February-April 2026 – WIC News

    The Caribbean island of Nevis is poised for a significant economic boost as its tourism ministry reveals an intensive cruise schedule for the latter half of the 2025-2026 season. Between February 24 and April 19, 2026, the island will welcome 19 cruise vessels carrying thousands of visitors, marking a substantial increase from the season’s first phase that ran from November 2025 through February 2026.

    The influx begins with Le Ponant’s arrival on February 24, followed closely by Sea Dream I and Club Med II in subsequent days. The schedule features multiple return visits from prominent cruise lines including Wind Surf, Emerald Sakara, and repeated calls from Club Med II throughout March and April.

    This cruise tourism expansion underscores Nevis’s growing reputation as a premier Caribbean destination, offering diverse attractions from the golden sands of Pinney’s Beach with its iconic Sunshine’s beach bar to the serene hiking trails of Nevis Peak. Cultural and historical sites including Alexander Hamilton’s birthplace and the island’s botanical gardens provide additional draws for visitors.

    Local businesses across the tourism sector—including tour operators, restaurateurs, retail vendors, hoteliers, and transportation services—stand to benefit significantly from the increased visitor numbers. The concentrated arrival pattern demonstrates cruise lines’ confidence in Nevis’s infrastructure and appeal as a destination capable of handling multiple ship calls within short timeframes.

    The scheduled arrivals represent a strategic achievement for Nevis’s tourism authorities, who have successfully positioned the island as an attractive port of call despite competition from larger Caribbean destinations.

  • St. Kitts-Nevis-Anguilla National Bank Limited Celebrates 55 Years of Banking Under the Theme: “55 Years Together- Your Vision, Our Purpose”

    St. Kitts-Nevis-Anguilla National Bank Limited Celebrates 55 Years of Banking Under the Theme: “55 Years Together- Your Vision, Our Purpose”

    BASSETERRE, St. Kitts – February 16, 2026 marks a significant milestone for St. Kitts-Nevis-Anguilla National Bank Limited as it commemorates 55 years of dedicated financial service under the unifying theme “55 Years Together – Your Vision, Our Purpose.” Since its establishment in 1971, the institution has transformed from a visionary project into the Eastern Caribbean’s premier locally owned financial entity, fundamentally supporting the region’s economic and social advancement.

    The Bank’s 55th anniversary celebration honors decades of sustained progress and strategic growth. By harmonizing customer aspirations with corporate objectives, National Bank has solidified its position as an indispensable partner in the nation’s financial ecosystem, consistently reinforcing its operational foundations to maintain stakeholder and public confidence.

    A comprehensive series of events has been organized to celebrate this landmark achievement:

    • A Thanksgiving Church Service initiated the celebrations on February 8, 2026, at Rivers of Living Water Christian Centre, setting a tone of gratitude and reflection

    • Customer Appreciation Day will feature special tokens of gratitude distributed across all branches in St. Kitts and Nevis, acknowledging longstanding client support

    • The Sir Edmund Lawrence Scholarship Program launches as a flagship educational initiative honoring the Bank’s founding visionary, designed to foster youth development through academic support

    • A Community Beautification Project aims to enhance one of Basseterre’s most historically significant landmarks, demonstrating the Bank’s commitment to environmental preservation

    • A Banquet and Awards Ceremony will recognize exemplary employees and stakeholders whose contributions have shaped the Bank’s success story since its inception

    With assets exceeding $3 billion, deposits surpassing $2 billion, and a loan portfolio over $1 billion, National Bank reaffirms its commitment to St. Kitts and Nevis’ sustainable development. Publicly traded on the Eastern Caribbean Securities Exchange with over 5,000 shareholders—including the Government of St. Kitts and Nevis as majority stakeholder—the institution continues to provide comprehensive financial solutions supporting personal aspirations, business expansion, and community progress.

  • Dominican Republic ranks second in Latin America for tourist arrivals in 2025

    Dominican Republic ranks second in Latin America for tourist arrivals in 2025

    The Dominican Republic has solidified its status as a tourism powerhouse, achieving the position of Latin America’s second most visited destination in 2025 according to the latest UN Tourism rankings. With an impressive 11.6 million international visitors recorded throughout the year, the Caribbean nation trails only Mexico in regional tourism popularity.

    UN Tourism data reveals that Latin America experienced robust recovery and growth in international arrivals throughout 2025, outperforming many other global regions. This resurgence underscores tourism’s critical function as an economic catalyst across Latin American nations, fueled by exceptional natural landscapes, rich cultural heritage, diverse culinary offerings, and continuously developing tourism infrastructure.

    The Dominican Republic’s tourism sector serves as a fundamental component of national economic strategy, driving substantial foreign exchange earnings and supporting widespread employment. The country’s consistent performance highlights its successful positioning within the competitive global tourism market.

    The regional ranking for 2025 places Mexico at the forefront, followed by the Dominican Republic, Brazil, Colombia, Chile, Argentina, Peru, Guatemala, Costa Rica, and Panama. This distinguished list demonstrates Latin America’s ascending prominence within international tourism circuits, with these ten nations collectively attracting millions of visitors and significantly contributing to regional economic development.

  • Belize Modernizes Transport with Unified Bus System

    Belize Modernizes Transport with Unified Bus System

    In a landmark move to transform its outdated public transit network, Belize has officially launched the National Bus Company—a comprehensive $49.7 million modernization initiative that unifies private operators, government agencies, and international partners under a single, consolidated system.

    The ambitious project, announced Monday by the Ministry of Transport, represents the most significant overhaul of Belize’s transportation infrastructure in decades. For years, commuters have endured overcrowded buses, aging fleets, and safety concerns stemming from fragmented operations among 31 independent bus companies that dominated routes since the 1980s.

    Transport Minister Dr. Louis Zabaneh spearheaded the consolidation effort, presenting a vision to stakeholders that addresses perennial issues including mechanical failures, dilapidated vehicles, and dangerous highway racing between competing operators. ‘The relief mentioned this morning is that we won’t have to race again like we did before,’ Zabaneh noted, highlighting how the new system will rationalize routes and eliminate competitive pressures that compromised safety.

    The equity structure positions the Government of Belize with 45.76% ownership ($22.7 million in terminal assets), while 17 participating operators contribute 39.15% ($19.4 million) in shares. The remaining equity involves international partnerships.

    A cornerstone of the modernization includes transitioning to electric buses starting September, with each unit costing between $325,000-$400,000. The initiative also features newly designed terminals in Belize City and Orange Walk Town that promise enhanced passenger comfort and operational efficiency.

    Dr. Gilroy Middleton of the implementation committee emphasized the human impact: ‘People are tired of riding preschool buses where your feet don’t fit. We’re looking at reliability, comfort, and raising standards.’

    The transformation follows extensive consultations beginning May 2025, overcoming initial skepticism through what CEO Chester Williams described as ‘building trust’ with operators who had expressed dissatisfaction with previous administration attempts.

  • Belize’s Transit Overhaul Gains Momentum with Tighter Legal Framework

    Belize’s Transit Overhaul Gains Momentum with Tighter Legal Framework

    Belize’s ambitious public transportation modernization initiative reaches a critical milestone as the government establishes comprehensive legal protections for the newly formed National Bus Company. This strategic move aims to transform decades of fragmented and inefficient service into a unified, reliable network through a carefully structured public-private partnership.

    The Ministry of Transport has engaged prominent legal firm Courtenay Coye LLP to draft the foundational documents, including articles of incorporation and memorandum of association, with the company officially incorporated last week. The legal framework extends beyond formation documents to include a detailed PPP Agreement between the company and Belizean government, plus forthcoming National Bus Company Act legislation that will provide statutory protection against future political interference.

    Transport CEO Chester Williams emphasized the preventive nature of these measures: “To ensure there is not a repeat of what happened [in previous failed consolidations], we have engaged Courtenay and Coye Law Firm to develop the legal framework for us. All operators who agreed to be part of this venture signed agreements not to compete with the National Bus Company.”

    Transport Minister Dr. Louis Zabaneh highlighted lessons learned from past experiences: “What the Novelo company did not have is legislation to protect them. We’re implementing provisions that clearly outline how road service permits under the National Bus Company are to be preserved and how future permits will be issued.” The ministry anticipates that potential legal costs and widespread public support from extensive consultations will create additional barriers against future attempts to dismantle the system, ensuring long-term stability regardless of political changes.

  • Economy : All the details on the digitized Professional Identity Card (CIP)

    Economy : All the details on the digitized Professional Identity Card (CIP)

    In a significant move to formalize its predominantly informal economy, Haiti has launched a digitized Professional Identity Card (CIP) system through the Ministry of Commerce and Industry. This initiative, supported by the Inter-American Development Bank, represents a pragmatic approach to addressing administrative challenges that have long hampered economic development.

    The digital CIP platform (guichet.mci.ht/cip) specifically targets individual entrepreneurs and sole proprietorships—the backbone of Haiti’s economy where over 80% of employment remains informal according to UNDP 2021 data. These micro-entrepreneurs, who regularly buy, sell, and provide services, now have a streamlined process for obtaining professional certification.

    The application process involves five key steps: creating an online account, uploading required documents (including national ID and tax number), digital payment via mobile money services MonCash or NatCash, online tracking with QR code verification, and final physical card collection from ministry offices.

    While currently excluding corporate entities, the system delivers tangible benefits including reduced processing times, decreased physical travel to government offices, enhanced payment traceability, and improved accessibility for unbanked entrepreneurs. These advantages are particularly valuable in a context where mobility constraints and administrative delays have traditionally discouraged formalization.

    However, the reform faces structural challenges including limited scope for complex business structures, underdeveloped data protection frameworks, restricted payment options, and need for better integration with other registration systems. The initiative also highlights the important distinction between the CIP (economic formalization tool) and Haiti’s National Identification Card (civil and political identity document).

    This digital transformation represents a gradual but meaningful step toward bringing Haiti’s significant informal sector—estimated to constitute over 50% of GDP—into the formal economy while adapting to local realities and constraints.

  • Natural gas development offshore Guyana depends on “pace” of govt’s systems, rules- ExxonMobil

    Natural gas development offshore Guyana depends on “pace” of govt’s systems, rules- ExxonMobil

    ExxonMobil has articulated that the timeline for developing Guyana’s substantial offshore natural gas reserves is contingent upon the efficiency of the nation’s regulatory frameworks and bureaucratic processes. Dan Ammann, President of ExxonMobil Upstream Company and Vice President of ExxonMobil Corporation, delivered this message as a keynote at the 2026 Guyana Energy Conference.

    Ammann emphasized that the successful model employed for Guyana’s rapid oil development—characterized by transparent roles, shared standards, and disciplined execution—must be replicated and intensified for the more complex gas sector. He outlined that gas development necessitates an integrated value chain, including specialized infrastructure for processing, compression, pipelines, and power systems, which requires synchronization across upstream, midstream, and downstream sectors.

    The energy giant’s commitment is to move in ‘lockstep’ with the government. Ammann stated that ExxonMobil’s investment and project advancement are directly tied to the pace of governmental permitting, environmental reviews, market framework establishment, and final investment decisions. The readiness of the entire system, not just one company, dictates the development speed.

    As a specific example, Ammann highlighted the planned $6.8 billion Hammerhead project. Designed to produce up to 95 billion cubic feet of gas daily, it is conceived as an integrated project from inception, with a pipeline to shore. The gas allocation strategy is flexible: a portion will power the operational FPSO vessel, while the remainder will fuel the national gas-to-energy project, support future domestic industry, or be re-injected to optimize oil recovery, thereby maximizing overall resource value.

    Concurrently, Guyanese President Irfaan Ali announced progress on a separate, collaborative venture. He revealed that discussions with neighboring Suriname are ‘on target’ for a joint development of cross-border gas resources. This partnership aims to amalgamate gas supplies to transform a potential medium-scale project into a larger-scale initiative, enhancing economic benefits for both nations and the wider region. President Ali noted that investors are poised, awaiting these critical bilateral decisions.

  • Pig farmers to launch ‘Sousie’ following ‘strong’ Christmas output

    Pig farmers to launch ‘Sousie’ following ‘strong’ Christmas output

    Barbados’ pig farming sector is capitalizing on strong Christmas season performance to launch a new locally-developed brand called Sousie, despite persistent concerns about meeting national demand and competing with imported pork products. Henderson Williams, President of both the Barbados Agricultural Society (BAS) and the Barbados Pig Farmers’ Association, confirmed the development while reporting sustained industry performance throughout 2024.

    The strategic move toward branded, value-added products represents a significant shift in the industry’s approach to market challenges. While production statistics for 2025 remain unavailable, Williams noted that farmers have maintained positive momentum built over previous years. The sector has witnessed remarkable growth, with producer membership more than doubling in 2024 as farmers intensified efforts to counter imported pork and expand domestic market share.

    Industry expansion has been fueled by multiple factors including government loans facilitated through BAS, innovative product development, and an influx of younger farmers entering the sector. Official data reveals substantial production increases, with pig slaughter numbers rising from 30,975 in 2023 to an additional 1,257 animals in 2024.

    The Sousie brand initiative marks a critical evolution in the industry’s strategy, moving beyond primary production into processed goods including burgers and pork sausages. This value-added approach complements what Williams describes as ‘solid production levels’ while addressing the fundamental challenge of stimulating consumer demand for local products.

    Collaboration with Barbados’ hospitality industry has formed another key component of the sector’s growth strategy, alongside the introduction of refreshed branding for both fresh and processed pork products. Despite ongoing competition from cheaper imports, industry indicators suggest rising output and renewed market interest in Barbadian pork products.

  • Chief Executive Officer of the Grenada Tourism Authority to serve as moderator for senior-level aviation and tourism discussion panel at CTO Air Connectivity Summit

    Chief Executive Officer of the Grenada Tourism Authority to serve as moderator for senior-level aviation and tourism discussion panel at CTO Air Connectivity Summit

    Stacey Liburd, Chief Executive Officer of the Grenada Tourism Authority, has been selected to moderate a pivotal leadership discussion at the Caribbean Tourism Organization’s 2026 Air Connectivity Summit in Bermuda. The one-day gathering, scheduled for later this month, will convene tourism ministers, airline executives, airport authorities, and regional policymakers under the theme “Integrating Aviation and Regional Tourism Development.”

    Liburd will facilitate the strategic panel “From Runway to Resort: Connecting Aviation & Caribbean Tourism Development,” which will examine the critical intersection of air transport planning and tourism strategy formulation. The dialogue will feature prominent representatives from aviation, infrastructure development, and private hospitality sectors, addressing practical solutions for route expansion, airport modernization, digital identity implementation, and visitor flow optimization.

    “Air connectivity transcends mere aviation concerns—it represents the cornerstone of tourism development, economic resilience, and regional competitiveness,” Liburd emphasized. “The synergistic alignment between aviation strategy and tourism planning will ultimately dictate our capacity to grow, diversify, and sustain Caribbean visitor economies.”

    Grenada’s prominent participation reflects the nation’s committed engagement in regional airlift negotiations and its evidence-based approach to enhancing connectivity. Recent initiatives include strengthening international air service partnerships and deploying targeted marketing campaigns to improve route performance and increase visitor expenditure.

    The summit constitutes a key component of CTO’s comprehensive Reimagine Plan and the ongoing work of its Airlift Committee, which focuses on improving intra-regional connectivity, long-haul access, and sustainable aviation practices across member states. Liburd’s dual role as moderator and Airlift Committee member positions Grenada at the forefront of discussions that will shape the future of Caribbean air access and tourism integration.

  • Jumby Bay Island, Hermitage Bay and Curtain Bluff Ranked Among Caribbean’s Best by U.S. News & World Report

    Jumby Bay Island, Hermitage Bay and Curtain Bluff Ranked Among Caribbean’s Best by U.S. News & World Report

    Antigua and Barbuda’s tourism sector has achieved remarkable recognition with three of its luxury resorts securing top positions in U.S. News & World Report’s prestigious Caribbean rankings. The newly released evaluation places Jumby Bay Island at an impressive fifth position, followed by Hermitage Bay at seventh, and Curtain Bluff claiming the twelfth spot among the region’s premier all-inclusive properties.

    The comprehensive assessment examined 214 hospitality establishments across the Caribbean basin, with Antiguan properties demonstrating exceptional performance in the competitive landscape. The Antigua Barbuda Hotels and Tourism Association (ABHTA) has hailed this achievement as testament to the nation’s growing prominence as a premium tourism destination.

    Industry analysts note that these rankings significantly enhance the twin-island nation’s competitive positioning within the luxury travel market. The recognition comes as Caribbean tourism experiences robust recovery post-pandemic, with high-end all-inclusive properties leading sector growth.

    ABHTA representatives emphasized that these accolades reflect the dedication of local hospitality professionals and their commitment to delivering unparalleled guest experiences. The association further highlighted how such international recognition contributes to destination branding and market visibility.

    With tourism constituting approximately 60% of Antigua and Barbuda’s GDP, these rankings assume substantial economic importance. The continued excellence of luxury resorts reinforces the nation’s strategic focus on high-value tourism as a cornerstone of economic development and sustainable growth.