In a significant step toward advancing Suriname’s energy sector, Ashwin Adhin, Chairman of the National Assembly (DNA), highlighted the critical importance of collaboration between parliament, government, and the private sector during a meeting with the Suriname Energy Chamber (SEC). The discussion, held in preparation for the upcoming Local Content Conference 2025 scheduled from October 21 to 23, focused on refining the local content policy to drive national development. The conference, organized by the SEC in partnership with Afreximbank, the Energy Authority Suriname (EAS), and the Surinamese government, aims to produce actionable recommendations, including a national definition of local content and a comprehensive roadmap for its implementation. Adhin emphasized that local content is a vital tool for Suriname’s economic growth, with DNA’s legal staff and parliamentary committees actively engaging to identify necessary legislative support. SEC Chairman Orlando Olmberg underscored the broader vision of local content, stating that it extends beyond oil and gas to encompass collaboration, knowledge sharing, and economic diversification. A key objective of the conference is to identify projects worth $200 million that align with the $5 billion in available funding for sector development, facilitated by Afreximbank. Additionally, the initiative aims to foster joint ventures between Surinamese and foreign companies, further boosting the country’s energy sector and economic prospects.
分类： business
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Saint Lucia receives automated passport control kiosks from OECS Commission
Saint Lucia’s Citizenship by Investment Programme (CIP) has become a cornerstone of the nation’s economy, offering foreign investors a pathway to citizenship through various investment options. Launched in 2015, the programme has evolved into a significant revenue stream, contributing over $121 million in the 2023–2024 fiscal year alone. However, its rapid growth has sparked debates about its impact on local property markets and housing affordability for citizens. The CIP allows investors to obtain citizenship through donations to the National Economic Fund, real estate investments, government bonds, or enterprise projects. While the programme has tightened due diligence and aligned with regional standards, concerns persist about its long-term effects on local communities. Critics argue that without explicit measures to curb inflationary pressures on real estate, locals risk being priced out of their homeland. Lessons from Tobago, which enforces stricter foreign land acquisition rules, highlight potential solutions for balancing economic growth with social equity. As Saint Lucia’s CIP continues to attract high-net-worth individuals, policymakers face the challenge of ensuring that the benefits of economic citizenship are equitably shared.
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Armand Bipat vervangen als technisch directeur EBS
In a significant organizational restructuring, the Energy Bedrijven Suriname (EBS) has announced major changes to its leadership during its annual general shareholders’ meeting. Armand Bipat, who assumed the role of Technical Director in January this year following Marcel Eijndhoven’s departure, has been relieved of his duties. Stepping into the position of Chief Technical Officer (CTO) is Rishidath Mathoera, the current secretary of the EBS union.
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Regional data center in Guyana can cost US$3 billion
Guyana is poised to become a technological hub for the Caribbean with the proposed development of a state-of-the-art data center, estimated to cost between US$2 billion and US$3 billion. President Irfaan Ali unveiled this ambitious plan during the grand opening of the SOMA Hotel and Restaurant, a venture by TOTALTEC Group, on October 11, 2025. The project aims to establish Guyana as a regional leader in innovation, computing, and data storage. The data center, requiring vast land and a stable, cost-effective energy supply, is expected to support various industries, including FinTech, digitization, and modernisation across the Caribbean. President Ali emphasized the strategic importance of this investment, envisioning Guyana as the sovereign storage and computing hub for the region. The initiative aligns with ExxonMobil Guyana’s appraisal of hydrocarbon resources at Longtail in the Stabroek Block, which could fuel energy plants and other industrial facilities. The SOMA Hotel, a symbol of local economic growth, will employ 60 to 100 Guyanese and source materials locally, reflecting the nation’s commitment to sustainable development.
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FLASH : HOPE/HELP Law between optimism and concern in the Haitian textile sector
The Haitian Hemispheric Opportunity Through Partnership for Encouragement (HOPE) laws and the Haiti Economic Lift Program (HELP) law, which expired at the end of September 2025, have left the Haitian textile sector in a state of uncertainty. These laws, initially approved by the U.S. Congress in 2005 and 2010, allowed Haiti to export clothing to the U.S. market duty-free, accounting for 90% of the country’s exports. The benefits also extended to the Dominican Republic, where textile mills produced fabrics and yarns sent to Haiti for garment production. In 2018, the sector employed 62,000 people, but due to security concerns, this number has plummeted to 26,000, with at least 15 factories closing. Fernando Capellan, president of the Industrial Development Company (CODEVI), remains optimistic about the laws’ renewal within the next 90 days, citing support from the White House and the program’s impact on the U.S. supply chain. However, Haiti’s Minister of Trade and Industry, James Monazard, expressed concern over the alarming situation, warning that without renewal, many companies in the subcontracting sector—a cornerstone of Haiti’s economy—could face closure. Political disagreements in the U.S. Congress have further delayed any decision, with the Trump administration expected to make a final call by December 19, 2025. The future of Haiti’s outsourcing sector hangs in the balance as stakeholders await a resolution.
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Ali says new govt transaction apps will guarantee accountability
In a significant move to bolster transparency and efficiency in government transactions, President Irfaan Ali announced the upcoming launch of four innovative applications designed for the private sector to interact with the government. The announcement was made during the commissioning of the SOMA Hotel & Restaurant, a flagship project by TOTALTEC Group, located in Houston, East Bank Demerara. President Ali emphasized that these apps would enable a ‘transparent, productive, and efficient’ process for conducting government business, while also ensuring accountability among officials through digital tracking mechanisms. The system is engineered to detect and prevent malpractices, reinforcing trust in public administration. A collaborative meeting between government representatives and the private sector is scheduled in six weeks to officially roll out the apps. President Ali highlighted that this initiative reflects the government’s commitment to accountability and leveraging technology for sustainable growth. The SOMA Hotel & Restaurant, developed by TOTALTEC, is set to create 60 to 100 direct and indirect jobs, supporting local suppliers and aligning with Guyana’s workforce development goals. The project is part of a broader vision to expand affordable, high-quality hospitality services across Guyana, catering to business travelers and industrial clients. TOTALTEC, a Guyanese-owned company established in 2016, has been instrumental in advancing local content and sustainable development, having trained over 6,000 individuals for careers in the oil and gas industry.
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VIDEO: Flooded Graves at Tranquility Park Cemetery
Antigua’s most visited news website is now offering fully customizable and flexible digital marketing packages to businesses looking to enhance their online presence. With a proven track record of high traffic and engagement, the platform provides advertisers with unique opportunities to reach a broad audience effectively. The marketing solutions are designed to be adaptable, catering to the specific needs and goals of each client. Interested parties are encouraged to contact the team at [email protected] to explore tailored advertising strategies. This initiative aims to support local and international businesses in maximizing their digital outreach through innovative and targeted campaigns.
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High expectations in first budget of UNC government – Over to you, Mr Tancoo
Finance Minister Davendranath Tancoo is set to deliver Trinidad and Tobago’s 2025/2026 national budget today in the House of Representatives, marking his first budget presentation since his appointment following the April 28 general election. This budget is also the first for Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar in her second term, as the United National Congress (UNC) government faces the challenge of balancing economic realities with campaign promises. The budget comes against a backdrop of economic uncertainty, with Standard & Poor’s (S&P) recently downgrading the country’s credit outlook from stable to negative, citing eroded fiscal and external buffers, limited GDP growth, and ineffective fiscal management. S&P’s report highlighted the cancellation of key projects, including access to Venezuelan natural gas reserves and the proposed Revenue Authority, as factors contributing to the downgrade. Economists have expressed low optimism about the government’s ability to implement meaningful reforms within S&P’s 6-24 month timeframe to avoid further downgrades. The budget is also being framed against low global oil prices, with West Texas Intermediate and Brent crude trading at $59.80 and $72.73 per barrel, respectively. Economists Marlene Attzs and Conrad Enill have advised the government to temper public expectations and adopt a disciplined, medium-term fiscal framework. Key election promises, such as creating 50,000 new jobs and a 10% wage increase for public servants, will be scrutinized as the government navigates these economic challenges. The budget debate is expected to conclude by October 29, with the final budget set to be sent to President Christine Kangaloo for assent.
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2025/2026 budget to be presented on October 13: Will the UNC deliver on its promises?
The UNC-led government of Trinidad and Tobago is set to present its highly anticipated 2025-2026 budget on October 13, marking its first fiscal plan since taking office nearly six months ago. Finance Minister Davendranath Tancoo will deliver the budget, which aims to address a range of pressing national issues while balancing ambitious policy goals with fiscal realities. Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar has emphasized priorities such as supporting children, low-income households, and job creation, though the budget may face a deficit due to the country’s borrowing and expenditure trends over the past decade. Key areas of focus include national security, economic diversification, and energy sector rehabilitation. The government has already made strides in fulfilling manifesto promises, such as reopening the Couva Children’s Hospital, restarting the student laptop program, and negotiating wage increases for public sector workers. However, challenges remain, including addressing crime, reviving make-work programs, and reducing reliance on oil and gas revenues. The budget is expected to outline targeted initiatives in agriculture, manufacturing, and small business development, reflecting the government’s commitment to economic diversification and inclusive growth.
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Close ties between Jamaica and Japan forged by Blue Mountain Coffee says outgoing Ambassador
KINGSTON, Jamaica – Jamaica’s outgoing ambassador to Japan, H.E. Shorna-Kay Richards, has extended heartfelt gratitude to the Association of Japanese Importers of Jamaican Coffee (AJIJC) and its chairman, Tatsushi Ueshima, for their steadfast dedication to the Jamaica Blue Mountain Coffee trade. Speaking at a recent reception during the Joint JCEA/JACRA Meeting with the AJIJC at Tokyo’s Big Sight Convention Centre, Ambassador Richards highlighted the association’s “generosity and unwavering commitment” to the industry. She emphasized the pivotal role the AJIJC has played in fostering the development of Jamaica’s coffee sector over the past seven decades, describing it as a “pillar of support and a true partner.”
Ambassador Richards, whose tenure was extended by six months beyond its original June 2023 end date, acknowledged the AJIJC’s innovative marketing strategies through its Promotional Committee. These efforts have introduced Jamaica Blue Mountain Coffee to younger Japanese consumers, ensuring its continued relevance in a competitive market. Notable initiatives included distributing 2,000 packets of the premium coffee at Tokyo’s Yushima Tenjin Shrine to students preparing for university entrance exams and showcasing the brew at the 2025 World Expo in Osaka.
Richards also commended Dr. Norman Grant, Chairman of the Jamaica Coffee Exporters Association, for his visionary leadership in maintaining the global excellence of Jamaica Blue Mountain Coffee. Dr. Grant, whose recent doctoral dissertation focused on strategies for profitability among Jamaican coffee farmers, reciprocated by praising Richards for her instrumental role in promoting the trade in Japan. He highlighted her efforts in organizing trade shows, fostering industry collaboration, and facilitating the distribution of 10,000 coffee seedlings donated by 7/11 to Jamaican farmers.
In recognition of her contributions, Dr. Grant and Mr. Ueshima presented Ambassador Richards with a plaque of appreciation, honoring her service to the Jamaica Blue Mountain Coffee industry and the strengthening of bilateral ties between Jamaica and Japan.