Carib Scope

分类： business

  • Catalyze Her Potential to Boost Women in Business

    Catalyze Her Potential to Boost Women in Business

    Women entrepreneurs across Belize, particularly those based in underserved rural communities, have gained a transformative new support system to grow their small ventures into sustainable, scalable businesses. Nonprofit organization NIME Belize (International Network of Women in Business) has officially launched the Catalyze Her Potential Catalyzer Project, a three-year strategic partnership with the IDB Lab that addresses long-standing systemic barriers holding women-led businesses back from economic growth.

    As an organization dedicated to advancing women in business across Belize, NIME Belize already serves a network of 280 members spread across the country. This new initiative expands that impact dramatically, with a goal of supporting 250 additional women entrepreneurs through three integrated, high-impact components: hands-on business incubation, one-on-one expert mentorship, and access to critical seed capital that many rural women founders are locked out of through traditional financing channels.

    Katia Montenegro-Hoare, president of NIME Belize, emphasized that the program is designed to deliver far more than just startup funding. Unlike many early-stage entrepreneurship initiatives that focus solely on launching new businesses, the Catalyze Her Potential project prioritizes long-term business sustainability, builds founder confidence, and drives measurable inclusive economic growth that benefits entire communities across Belize. “Our mission has always been to provide the resources, tools, opportunities, and networking that women need to build lasting businesses that contribute to Belize’s economic and social development,” Montenegro-Hoare explained in the official launch announcement.

    Registration for the program is open now and will close on April 10, with all interested women entrepreneurs invited to apply. Full program details, registration instructions, and additional resources are posted to NIME Belize’s official website and social media platforms, making it easy for remote and rural applicants to access information about the opportunity.

  • Luis Abinader, ITM Group announce Port Samaná opening on November 24 with 1,000 direct jobs

    Luis Abinader, ITM Group announce Port Samaná opening on November 24 with 1,000 direct jobs

    The Caribbean nation of the Dominican Republic is poised to hit a major milestone in its cruise tourism expansion strategy, with Dominican President Luis Abinader confirming the official opening of the long-awaited Port Samaná for November 24. Developed under a forward-looking public-private partnership between private developer ITM Group, the Dominican Port Authority, and the national Ministry of Tourism, the project is already being hailed as a cornerstone of the country’s economic growth agenda. Currently wrapping up its final construction and preparation phase, the new port is projected to create more than 4,000 local jobs while elevating Samaná to a top-tier cruise destination across the Caribbean.

  • Republic Bank workers to receive 9.5% pay hike under new deal

    Republic Bank workers to receive 9.5% pay hike under new deal

    After weeks of closed-door negotiations, two key stakeholders in the Eastern Caribbean financial sector have reached a landmark consensus that will reshape working conditions for hundreds of bank employees. Republic Bank EC Limited, a leading regional financial institution, and the National Workers Union, the representative body for the bank’s clerical, technical and IT staff, have successfully finalized a new three-year industrial agreement that delivers tangible wage gains, retroactive compensation and upgraded workplace benefits for more than 140 workers.

    Under the terms of the newly struck deal, covered employees will see a cumulative 9.5% general wage increase spread across the three-year term of the agreement. The raises are phased incrementally, with a 3% increase set for the first year, a second 3% increase for the second year, and a final 3.5% adjustment in the third year of the contract. In addition to the scheduled incremental raises, the agreement also grants eligible workers more than 12 months of retroactive back pay, compensating them for the period between the expiration of the previous collective agreement and the finalization of the new deal.

    The breakthrough in negotiations was mediated by the Office of the Labour Commissioner, which stepped in to facilitate discussions and help both sides bridge remaining gaps on key issues. Alongside wage adjustments, the new agreement introduces a suite of upgraded benefits designed to address rising daily work costs for employees. These include a new $30 daily breakfast allowance, increased vehicle allowances for workers who use personal transportation for work purposes, and an annual uniform allowance of $1,400 for male staff and all probationary employees. The deal also formalizes a long-sought recognition for business banking officers, reclassifying the role as an official travelling position to align with the role’s actual day-to-day work requirements, which regularly require off-site client visits.

    Both parties have scheduled a formal signing ceremony to mark the conclusion of negotiations, set for Tuesday, March 31, 2026. The ceremony will be held at an official venue, with senior officials from the Department of Labour in attendance to witness the signing of the final agreement.

  • Mah-Lee, TotalEnergies reach deal, but…

    Mah-Lee, TotalEnergies reach deal, but…

    A long-running standoff between a veteran Jamaican petroleum retailer and French energy giant TotalEnergies Jamaica has concluded with an amicable settlement, according to the Jamaica Gasoline Retailers Association (JGRA) — but industry leaders warn the case exposes deep-rooted, systemic unfairness that continues to disadvantage independent dealers across the country’s fuel retail sector.

    The dispute centered on Howard Mah-Lee, a dealer who had operated the Seashore Harbour View Service Station under TotalEnergies for 43 years. Late last year, the company informed Mah-Lee it would not renew his distribution contract, a decision that caught JGRA off guard. JGRA President Philip Chong emphasized that Mah-Lee had an unblemished four-decade tenure, consistently adhering to the association’s ethical guidelines, meeting all operational requirements, and delivering reliable service to both local customers and TotalEnergies itself with zero documented breaches of his agreement.

    Behind the non-renewal was a discriminatory pricing structure that put Mah-Lee at a severe competitive disadvantage, Chong explained. TotalEnergies supplies fuel to two adjacent service stations, including Mah-Lee’s and the neighboring lot. Despite receiving the same product from the same supplier, the neighboring dealer was granted fuel at a vastly lower wholesale cost, allowing them to undercut Mah-Lee on retail prices and siphon away customers. Compounding this inequity, TotalEnergies moved to consolidate both locations under a single operator, issuing Mah-Lee a 30-day eviction notice requiring him to vacate the property by March 2026 with no severance or compensation for his decades of operation — a move Chong called unconscionable, particularly noting the ripple effect it would have on Mah-Lee’s long-tenured hourly and salaried staff.

    At Mah-Lee’s request, JGRA escalated the issue to Jamaica’s Minister of Energy Daryl Vaz, who stepped in to mediate negotiations between the dealer and TotalEnergies. After weeks of back-and-forth discussions facilitated by the minister, the two parties reached a confidential settlement that Mah-Lee has publicly confirmed he is satisfied with. As of this report, TotalEnergies has not issued an independent confirmation of the agreement’s terms.

    Chong noted that while Vaz worked to balance the interests of the multinational marketer and local dealers, the JGRA counts the amicable resolution of Mah-Lee’s case as a win for its member — but the association’s broader advocacy work is far from over. He stressed that the core issues that sparked this dispute: one-sided contracts and unfair pricing practices, are pervasive across Jamaica’s petroleum retail sector, not limited to Mah-Lee’s case. Chong pointed to a second recent termination of a long-serving dealer’s contract by another major marketer as further evidence of the trend.

    The root of the problem, Chong explained, dates back to the sector’s transition from legacy multinational operators like Shell and Texaco to newer entrants including TotalEnergies. Modern contracts, rebranded as “licenses” by the new operators, are heavily weighted in favor of marketing firms, granting them unprecedented control over retail operations that extends far beyond their traditional wholesale role. While companies justify the unequal terms as a necessary response to growing industry competition, Chong says the outcome has been devastating for independent dealers: hundreds now face mounting financial pressure, shrinking profit margins, and growing risk of business failure, with many reporting they are systematically denied fair treatment by the multinational fuel marketers that control their supply.

  • Dominica announces new fuel prices in response to global market volatility

    Dominica announces new fuel prices in response to global market volatility

    The Government of Dominica has confirmed revised pricing structures for petroleum products, effective Monday, March 30, 2026. This adjustment responds to significant turbulence in global energy markets, primarily fueled by escalating geopolitical conflicts in the Middle East—a region critical to worldwide oil production and distribution.

    According to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, International Business, Trade and Energy, persistent regional hostilities have generated substantial uncertainty within international crude markets. These conditions have precipitated rising benchmark oil prices, compounded by increased risk insurance premiums and elevated shipping expenses. Consequently, landed fuel costs have risen considerably, particularly affecting small island developing states like Dominica that rely heavily on energy imports.

    Despite these external pressures, government officials reaffirmed their commitment to implementing a balanced pricing mechanism that prioritizes both market realities and consumer protection. The administration emphasized its strategic approach to mitigating domestic economic disruption while acknowledging unavoidable international market forces.

    Hon. Dr. Vince Henderson, Minister for Foreign Affairs, International Business, Trade and Energy, addressed the particular vulnerabilities of island nations within the current energy landscape. “Present global conditions highlight the acute susceptibility of small island developing states to external economic shocks,” he stated. “While Middle Eastern tensions continue driving oil market instability—factors beyond our national control—we remain dedicated to responsible price management. Concurrently, we are advancing our renewable energy transition to diminish long-term reliance imported fuel volatility and enhance national energy security.”

    The government confirmed it is continuously monitoring international developments and geopolitical risks influencing energy supply chains. It reiterated its pledge to implement judicious measures aimed at buffering households and businesses from escalating costs as global circumstances develop.

  • ABHTA Elevates Housekeeping Excellence with Advanced Supervisor Training

    ABHTA Elevates Housekeeping Excellence with Advanced Supervisor Training

    The Antigua & Barbuda Hotels and Tourism Association (ABHTA) has marked a significant milestone in hospitality workforce development with the successful completion of its Housekeeping Supervisor – Advanced Level Course. Held on March 24–25, 2026, at the Muriel O’Mard Campus, this intensive two-day program was specifically designed to elevate the capabilities of supervisory personnel within the tourism sector.

    Under the expert guidance of Patricia Louisa Tully, CHHE, CHE—a distinguished hospitality professional with extensive credentials as Executive Housekeeper, Rooms Manager, and Hospitality Educator—the curriculum addressed critical leadership competencies. Participants engaged in a multifaceted learning experience that combined theoretical examinations with interactive exercises and practical, hands-on sessions.

    A highlight of the training included a detailed walkthrough of a demonstration room conducted by Ms. Tully, who emphasized the meticulous protocols essential for maintaining superior housekeeping standards. This practical component reinforced the course’s focus on quality control, inspection rigor, and operational consistency.

    The comprehensive program covered several advanced domains: enhancing leadership and team management capabilities, refining budgeting and cost-control techniques, strengthening workplace professionalism and ethics, and ultimately driving guest satisfaction through improved service delivery. Successfully completing the final assessment earned participants official certification, recognizing their commitment to professional excellence.

    Both facilitator and attendees reported exceptionally positive outcomes. Ms. Tully praised the cohort’s dedication and interactive participation, stating: ‘The trainees were hardworking, dedicated individuals—a pleasure to work with. I am confident in their ability to apply these advanced skills effectively.’

    Participants echoed this sentiment, with Alicia Charles, Executive Housekeeper at Cocobay Resort, describing the course as ‘a game-changer’ for focusing on communication and team motivation. Errol Phoenix of Total Imports Supplies noted the training would empower him to improve his department and serve as a positive role model.

    The ABHTA reaffirms its ongoing commitment to enhancing the skillset of the local hospitality workforce, aiming to bolster both individual career progression and the broader economic benefits of Antigua and Barbuda’s tourism industry. The association continues to welcome members from across the sector to support collective growth and development.

  • New CMC Facility to Link Farmers Directly to Hotels and Supermarkets

    New CMC Facility to Link Farmers Directly to Hotels and Supermarkets

    The government is spearheading a transformative agricultural initiative designed to strengthen domestic food production and reduce import dependency. Central to this strategy is the establishment of a state-of-the-art national food distribution hub operated by the CMC (Caribbean Marketing Corporation).

    According to Minister Smith, the facility’s core mandate is to prioritize procurement from local farmers, creating a reliable and structured market for their produce. This initiative is a strategic move to directly supply the nation’s lucrative tourism sector—including hotels and supermarkets—with high-quality, locally grown food, thereby keeping revenue within the domestic economy.

    The hub will be equipped with comprehensive infrastructure, including advanced cold storage and dry storage units, alongside agro-processing capabilities. This will allow for extended preservation of perishable goods and value-added processing before distribution, minimizing waste and maximizing farmer profitability. Minister Smith also revealed plans to incorporate a dedicated farmer’s market space within the complex.

    The government has already secured a property for this project and is currently in the development phase, retrofitting the existing structure to meet its new purpose. While a specific inauguration date remains unannounced, officials have confirmed that work is actively underway.

    Hailed as a ‘game changer’ for the agricultural sector, the CMC hub is expected to alleviate significant pressure on farmers by guaranteeing a steady and dependable outlet for their goods. This project is a critical component of a larger national agenda aimed at enhancing food security, bolstering local agriculture, and more deeply integrating this vital sector into the country’s tourism-driven economic model.

  • Manzanillo Plant key to energy stability, says Energy Minister

    Manzanillo Plant key to energy stability, says Energy Minister

    Santo Domingo has emerged as a Caribbean energy leader with groundbreaking infrastructure development and renewable expansion. Energy and Mines Minister Joel Santos unveiled the Manzanillo Power Land thermoelectric facility, now operational as the region’s most advanced power plant. This state-of-the-art complex injects 414 megawatts into the National Interconnected Electric System, deploying cutting-edge control and monitoring technologies that significantly enhance grid reliability while optimizing response mechanisms to fluctuating energy demands.

    The energy transformation extends beyond conventional power generation. Under President Luis Abinader’s administration, renewable capacity has experienced unprecedented growth, surging from 554 megawatts in 2020 to approximately 2,000 megawatts today—representing a nearly fourfold increase. The year 2025 proved particularly significant with approximately 1,150 megawatts of clean energy integration, demonstrating accelerated investment in solar and wind projects nationwide.

    Minister Santos emphasized that this dual approach—combining advanced thermal generation with renewable expansion—creates a more resilient, sustainable, and secure energy ecosystem. Strategic infrastructure investments, regulatory reforms, and technological innovation have collectively positioned the Dominican Republic for continued energy modernization. The government maintains its commitment to further increasing renewable penetration, ensuring nationwide access to stable, environmentally conscious electricity that meets both current and future demands.

  • Rising freight, raw material costs could lift food prices, say manufacturers

    Rising freight, raw material costs could lift food prices, say manufacturers

    Barbados faces an impending surge in food prices within the next two to three months as global supply chain disruptions from Middle East conflicts drive up shipping and raw material costs, according to a leading industry official. Rakeesh Bernard, President of the Barbados Manufacturers’ Association (BMA), confirmed that while current inventories are temporarily buffering consumers from immediate impacts, manufacturers are receiving formal notifications from shipping lines and suppliers about impending cost increases.

    The complex supply chain dynamics mean that manufacturers who forward-purchase inputs are currently insulated from spot market price fluctuations. However, Bernard emphasized that this protection is temporary. “Many manufacturers purchase materials months in advance, creating a delayed effect where consumers won’t feel the impact until existing inventories deplete,” he explained. This creates a precarious situation where global price increases have already occurred upstream but haven’t yet reached retail levels.

    Agricultural inputs, particularly fertilizers, are expected to experience significant price increases that will inevitably affect local food production costs. Bernard noted these increases would more directly impact agriculture than manufacturing initially, but would eventually ripple through the entire food production ecosystem.

    The BMA president carefully qualified that price increases aren’t inevitable, contingent on geopolitical resolution. “If the conflict ends immediately, we might avoid the worst impacts,” he stated, “but if hostilities continue, consumers should prepare for noticeable price movements within the next quarter.

    This warning comes alongside government interventions aimed at mitigating the economic impact. Finance Minister Ryan Straughn recently announced budgetary measures including a cap on container values used to calculate import duties and VAT. Effective April 1 through March 2027, Customs will limit valuation to $3,000 for 20-foot containers and $6,000 for 40-foot containers on CIF shipments, directly addressing the freight cost component of consumer prices.

    Bernard endorsed these government actions as “timely and necessary,” expressing full support for the measures designed to shield both industry and consumers from external economic shocks. The association president concluded that despite the challenging global environment, Barbados has implemented appropriate defensive economic measures.

  • Easter travel drives record passenger flow at AILA

    Easter travel drives record passenger flow at AILA

    Santo Domingo is preparing for unprecedented aviation activity as Las Américas International Airport (AILA) forecasts handling over 110,000 passengers during the 2026 Holy Week period. This projection represents a substantial 15% year-over-year surge, underscoring robust seasonal travel demand primarily driven by the Dominican diaspora returning home from the United States and European nations.

    Aviation authorities at Aeropuertos Dominicanos Siglo XXI (Aerodom) report that flight occupancy rates are consistently surpassing 90% threshold. The most heavily trafficked air corridors link the capital to major urban centers including New York, Boston, Miami, Orlando, and San Juan in the United States, alongside key Spanish destinations. In response to this sustained demand, leading international carriers such as American Airlines, Delta Air Lines, JetBlue Airways, and Iberia have strategically augmented their flight frequencies to this Caribbean destination.

    To accommodate the anticipated passenger influx, Dominican government agencies have implemented coordinated operational enhancements. The General Directorate of Migration and the General Directorate of Customs have activated specialized protocols to streamline border control processes and ensure efficient passenger processing. Industry analysts note that despite prevailing premium airfare pricing during this peak season, traveler demand remains resilient, further solidifying AILA’s strategic position as a pivotal aviation gateway in the Caribbean region during major holiday periods.