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.
分类： business
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Entrepreneur hatches poultry breeding plan
In a significant move to address Barbados’ reliance on imported hatching eggs, entrepreneur Errol Andrew is preparing to launch the island’s first poultry breeding facility. Through his company, Hatch An Egg Limited, Andrew aims to enhance food security, reduce costs for local farmers, and ensure a steady supply of chicks, particularly ahead of the high-demand Christmas season. The initiative comes after a half-million-dollar investment in a hatching egg venture, with renovations completed and expansion plans now underway. Andrew revealed in an exclusive interview with Barbados TODAY that he is in discussions with investors and business partners to establish the breeding farm, marking a critical step in his long-term vision for domestic food security. Currently producing 20,000 chicks monthly, Andrew aims to scale up to 20,000 chicks weekly within six months. The hatchery, located in The Mount, St George, has already gained traction among small farmers, primarily supplying broiler chicks, with plans to introduce layer chicks as part of its expansion. Andrew emphasized the importance of food security, especially during peak seasons like Christmas, and highlighted the logistical and financial challenges of importing eggs from Miami and Belgium. Establishing a local breeding farm would eliminate shipping costs and mitigate risks associated with bird flu. The company’s broader goals include introducing diverse bird breeds, partnering with local agricultural bodies like the Barbados Agricultural Society (BAS) and the Barbados Egg and Poultry Producers Association (BEPPA), and sharing best practices with farmers. Andrew, who entered the poultry industry in 2018, has relied on small loans and family support to build the business and has applied for funding from the Agricultural Growth Fund to support expansion. Despite financial hurdles, he remains optimistic about Hatch An Egg Limited’s role in strengthening Barbados’ poultry industry and addressing challenges like the shortage of table eggs during the holiday season.
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PHOTOS: New Crusher Under Construction to Boost Public Works Quarry Operations
Prime Minister Gaston Browne has announced the production of a state-of-the-art crusher, a move set to significantly bolster the government’s ability to execute large-scale infrastructure projects across Antigua and Barbuda. The new crusher, currently in the manufacturing phase, is expected to enhance operational efficiency and resource management in the construction sector. This development aligns with the government’s broader strategy to modernize the nation’s infrastructure and stimulate economic growth. The initiative underscores the administration’s commitment to leveraging advanced technology to address developmental challenges. Additionally, the project is anticipated to create job opportunities and foster local industry growth. The announcement comes as part of a series of measures aimed at improving public services and infrastructure, positioning Antigua and Barbuda as a regional leader in sustainable development.
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SKN Business Community Commends NIA for Transparency on Proposed SSZ Development
The Nevis Island Administration (NIA) has garnered praise from the St. Kitts and Nevis business community for its transparent approach to the proposed Special Sustainability Zone (SSZ) development, codenamed ‘Destiny.’ On October 7, 2025, Premier Mark Brantley, alongside his Cabinet, hosted a meeting with key stakeholders, including the St. Kitts and Nevis Chamber of Industry and Commerce (SKNCIC), the Nevis Branch of the CIC, and the Bankers and Financial Services Association of St. Kitts and Nevis (BFSA). The event, held at the Four Seasons Resort Nevis, drew approximately 40 representatives from the private sector. Attendees were provided with a detailed overview of the multi-billion-dollar project through a developer-led video and a comprehensive PowerPoint presentation, which outlined the project’s vision, economic impact, and social benefits. Discussions during the meeting centered on critical aspects such as developer financing, environmental safeguards, land sales, tax concessions, and employment opportunities. Premier Brantley highlighted the project’s potential contributions, including infrastructure upgrades to the Alexandra Hospital and Long Point Pier, a US$1 million annual scholarship fund, and profit-sharing arrangements to support Nevis’s social programs. However, he emphasized that the project remains under review, with no final approval yet granted. The meeting was part of the NIA’s broader public engagement strategy to ensure stakeholder input is considered before any decisions are made. Business leaders, including SKNCIC President Trevor Blake and BFSA President Pamela Herbert-Daniel, commended the government for its openness and commitment to transparency. The NIA plans to continue its outreach efforts through a series of town hall meetings to keep the Nevisian community informed about the SSZ Destiny project.
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China en VS escaleren handelsconflict: wereldwijde onrust
The longstanding trade tensions between China and the United States have intensified following a series of aggressive economic measures from both nations. This week, the Chinese government announced increased port fees and additional import tariffs targeting American vessels and products. This move comes as a direct response to President Donald Trump’s decision to raise tariffs on Chinese goods to 100 percent. The Chinese Ministry of Commerce described the measures as a “targeted and proportionate response” to what Beijing terms “unfair economic aggression” from the US. Key sectors affected by the new tariffs include American agricultural products, semiconductors, and industrial machinery. President Trump defended his tariff hike as a necessary step to “protect American industries from unfair competition and cheap dumping practices by China.” However, analysts warn that this escalation could trigger a global trade war, potentially disrupting prices, production, and investments worldwide. The Chinese yuan has already felt the impact, hitting a record low of 7.32 yuan per US dollar on Friday, its weakest level since June. Investors fear that a weaker yuan could exacerbate the trade conflict by making Chinese exports cheaper, further straining the US trade balance. International markets have reacted nervously, with oil prices dipping slightly and stock exchanges in Asia and Europe closing with losses. The World Trade Organization (WTO) has urged both countries to “return to dialogue and multilateral trade agreements” to de-escalate the situation.
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IMF: The Dominican Republic manages to reduce its public debt and remains among the most stable countries in the region.
The Dominican Republic continues to stand out in Latin America and the Caribbean for its remarkably low public debt relative to its Gross Domestic Product (GDP), as highlighted by data from the International Monetary Fund (IMF) and national organizations. Recent figures reveal that the country’s Consolidated Public Debt reached 57.4% of GDP in 2024, with a slight decrease to 56.9% projected by August 2025. These figures remain significantly below the regional average, positioning the nation favorably among its peers.
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Economy : «Economic conditions in Haiti remain fragile» dixit FMI
A recent virtual mission conducted by the International Monetary Fund (IMF) from September 30 to October 8, 2025, has underscored the fragile economic conditions in Haiti. Led by Mr. Camilo E. Tovar, the mission assessed Haiti’s progress under its Staff-Monitored Program (SMP), an informal agreement designed to monitor economic reforms and pave the way for potential IMF financial assistance. The findings reveal a seventh consecutive year of economic contraction, with inflation soaring at 32 percent year-on-year. Despite these challenges, remittance inflows have surged, bolstering the current account balance and supporting international reserves, which stood at over US$3.1 billion as of July 2025. Fiscal policy remains constrained by security issues and institutional weaknesses, though social spending has increased by 34 percent, aided by IMF support. Public debt is projected to be the lowest in the Latin America and Caribbean region at 12.4 percent of GDP by the end of FY2025. However, risks persist, including gang-related disruptions and potential shifts in international migration and trade policies. On a positive note, the UN Security Council’s authorization of a new multinational Gang Suppression Force could mark a turning point in restoring security and fostering economic growth. The SMP continues to prioritize governance reforms, revenue mobilization, and strengthening the central bank’s policy frameworks. Despite progress, Haiti urgently requires international financial support, preferably in the form of grants, to address its humanitarian and developmental needs and ensure sustainable growth.
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Skip the Lines, Your Favorite Lottery Games Are Now on Your Phone!
In a groundbreaking move, Belize Government Lotteries Ltd. has launched the Fi We Boledo App, transforming the way lottery enthusiasts engage with their favorite games. This innovative platform allows users to play Boledo, Ordinary Lottery, and Jackpot games directly from their smartphones, eliminating the need for physical tickets and long queues. Payments are securely processed through Digi Wallet, and winnings are instantly transferred to the user’s Digi Wallet or bank account, ensuring a seamless and efficient experience. Janel Espat, Managing Director of Belize Government Lotteries, emphasized that the app aims to attract a younger, tech-savvy demographic, broadening the customer base beyond the traditional audience of individuals aged forty and above. Espat also confirmed that the initiative was developed in full consultation with sales distributors, who fully supported the transition to digital. This strategic shift not only modernizes the lottery system but also aims to boost sales by making the games more accessible and convenient for a wider audience.
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Lottery Boom Fuels Healthcare Expansion in Belize
Belize is witnessing a transformative surge in its healthcare sector, fueled by the unprecedented success of its national lottery system. Belize Government Lotteries Ltd. (BGLL) has reported staggering sales of over $108 million in its inaugural year, with projections indicating a rise to $137 million in the current year. This cumulative figure of nearly $245 million in just two years is not only a testament to the lottery’s popularity but also a critical funding source for national projects, particularly healthcare. Through the National Health Insurance (NHI) program, BGLL has already contributed $22 million to expand primary care services across the country. Janel Espat, Managing Director of BGLL, highlighted the lottery’s role in generating revenue, stating, ‘Our first calendar year, our sales were a hundred and eight million dollars. We are hoping, by all indications, that for the second year our sales will be a hundred and thirty-seven million dollars.’ The funds are disbursed to the government, with the Ministry of Finance determining their allocation. Dr. Ramon Figueroa, General Manager of NHI, emphasized the significance of this financial boost, noting that the NHI rollout, which began in 2001, has historically been constrained by funding limitations. The lottery’s contributions have enabled the expansion of primary care to regions like Orange Walk and the Cayo District, despite challenges posed by the latter’s dispersed population. This innovative funding mechanism is paving the way for nationwide healthcare improvements, marking a significant milestone in Belize’s public health journey.
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Antigua Among Top Choices for UK Travellers Seeking Mental Health Breaks
In a groundbreaking move to align with the growing emphasis on mental health, Thomas Cook has introduced ‘The Package Holiday Prescription,’ a curated collection of long-haul escapes designed to help travelers rejuvenate and enhance their wellbeing. This initiative, unveiled to coincide with World Mental Health Day, reflects a significant shift in consumer behavior, with bookings to destinations like The Bahamas and Antigua and Barbuda skyrocketing by 183% and 196%, respectively, year-on-year.
The launch is backed by findings from ABTA’s Holiday Habits 2025-26 report, which highlights that 80% of people now view holidays as essential for their mental health. Nicholas Smith, Holidays Digital Director at Thomas Cook, noted, ‘We’re witnessing a trend where customers are prioritizing wellbeing, opting for destinations that offer a chance to disconnect and recharge.’
The Package Holiday Prescription features tailored itineraries that encourage travelers to leave technology behind and immerse themselves in mindful activities. From serene boat excursions to unique experiences like swimming with wild pigs at Rose Island in The Bahamas, these trips are crafted to foster relaxation and connection with nature.
Since its relaunch in September 2020 as an online-only travel business under the eSky Group, Thomas Cook has focused on offering ATOL-protected holidays and customizable travel options. Customers can now design their ideal trips, choosing from thousands of hotels, direct flights from major UK airports, and add-ons such as car hire and insurance.
For those interested in exploring these wellbeing-focused escapes, the full collection is available on the dedicated landing page: https://www.thomascook.com/holidays/package-holiday-prescriptions.