Carib Scope

分类： business

  • Government Targets Investment with Oil and Gas Strategy

    Government Targets Investment with Oil and Gas Strategy

    The Government of Belize has unveiled a strategic initiative to catalyze investment in its oil and gas sector, with Prime Minister John Briceño affirming a commitment to the industry’s responsible development. While acknowledging the nation’s hydrocarbon reserves are modest compared to global producers, the administration is pursuing a targeted approach to leverage existing potential.

    Central to this strategy is the appointment of David Morales as Special Envoy for Oil and Gas for a three-year term. Morales, who holds formal qualifications in petroleum studies and previously worked with Belize Natural Energy (BNE), will serve in an unpaid capacity. His mandate focuses on attracting foreign investment and identifying new opportunities by utilizing his industry connections and expertise.

    Prime Minister Briceño provided specific details about Belize’s petroleum prospects, referencing discovered reserves in the Spanish Lookout area estimated at 10-12 million barrels. He revealed that BNE has secured approximately $50 million in funding for two additional wells in that region based on confirmed petroleum findings. Additional potential sites were identified in northern areas between Corozal and Orange Walk District near Blue Creek, as well as in southern regions.

    Morales approached the government with a proposal to serve as special envoy, suggesting his industry connections could effectively “knock on doors and open doors” for Belize’s energy sector. The Prime Minister emphasized this appointment represents a cost-effective approach to developing the country’s energy resources without government expenditure, relying instead on Morales’ voluntary contribution of expertise and network.

  • Internet : New Sunrise Airways App

    Internet : New Sunrise Airways App

    Haiti’s premier carrier Sunrise Airways has unveiled a comprehensive digital transformation strategy this December, significantly enhancing passenger experience through technological innovation and expanded route connectivity. The airline’s newly launched mobile application represents a cornerstone of this initiative, offering travelers seamless booking capabilities, itinerary management, and real-time flight notifications.

    The smartphone application, available for both iOS and Android platforms, provides travelers with unprecedented control over their journey. Passengers can now book flights, perform digital check-ins on eligible routes, and receive instant updates regarding schedule changes or operational adjustments. This digital advancement positions Sunrise Airways competitively within the Caribbean aviation market.

    Concurrently, the airline introduced ‘Refund Protect’ – a flexible travel insurance option that guarantees full reimbursement for tickets under unforeseen circumstances. This customer-centric approach addresses growing demand for travel flexibility in the post-pandemic era.

    Network expansion continues with the newly operational route connecting Cap-Haitien to Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport, launched December 15th. This strategic addition strengthens connections between Haiti’s northern region and South Florida, catering to both business and leisure travelers.

    Established in 2012, Sunrise Airways has evolved into a significant regional connector with 11 operational bases and over 250 employees. The carrier has transported more than 1.7 million passengers across nearly 20 destinations spanning from Florida through the Caribbean basin. Recent expansion includes Eastern Caribbean services to Antigua, Saint Kitts, Dominica, Saint Lucia, Grenada, and Saint Vincent, with additional routes planned for 2026.

    Travelers may access these services through the airline’s official website (www.sunriseairways.net) or via the newly launched mobile application.

  • Banks Beer presents 2025 Isuzu D-Max to Christmas competition winner

    Banks Beer presents 2025 Isuzu D-Max to Christmas competition winner

    In an extraordinary display of holiday generosity, Banks Beer transformed an ordinary Wednesday into a life-changing event for Lisa Morris. The beverage company orchestrated a surprise delivery of a brand-new 2025 Isuzu D-Max directly to her Swan Street workplace, fulfilling her automotive aspirations through their innovative QR code competition.

    Morris, who had consistently participated in the three-month promotional campaign, was overcome with emotion when the prize vehicle arrived. “I feel so excited. I was dreaming about this vehicle. I always wanted an upgrade,” she expressed, revealing her weekly participation through numbered bottle caps.

    The marketing initiative, which ran from August through November, generated unprecedented engagement according to Jenelle Jermain, Marketing Manager of SLU Beverage Limited. “We had a tremendous response with over 30,000 entries and more than 7,000 premiums awarded,” Jermain noted, highlighting the campaign’s global significance. “SLU Beverages and Banks Barbados Breweries Limited are the second company worldwide to execute an ‘Under the Crown’ QR campaign.”

    Beyond the vehicle, Morris received an enhanced prize package including $1,000 in SOL gas vouchers presented as a holiday bonus and an additional set of four tires. Jermain confirmed that SLU Beverages will manage all registration and licensing procedures to ensure prompt delivery of the vehicle to its thrilled new owner.

    The surprise delivery culminated months of promotional activity that combined traditional product engagement with digital innovation, creating what company representatives described as an overwhelmingly successful consumer outreach program.

  • GHTA holds 62nd Annual General Meeting

    GHTA holds 62nd Annual General Meeting

    The Grenada Hotel and Tourism Association (GHTA) marked a significant milestone with its 62nd Annual General Meeting, convening under the forward-looking theme “Building Resilience: Sustainable Tourism, Empowered Communities.” The gathering served as a pivotal platform for industry leaders to assess progress, establish new governance, and outline strategic priorities for the nation’s vital tourism sector.

    Featured speakers included the Honourable Adrian Thomas, Minister of Tourism, Culture and the Creative Economy, and Stacey Liburd, CEO of the Grenada Tourism Authority. Both officials provided crucial insights into the strategic trajectory of Grenada’s tourism landscape and emphasized collaborative approaches to sustainable development.

    GHTA Chief Executive Officer Arlene Friday articulated the association’s visionary outlook, stating: “Our collective efforts extend beyond industry development—we are building an enduring legacy. Through community empowerment and sustainable practices, we are shaping a prosperous future for Grenada. Our ongoing priorities include strengthening collaborative partnerships, delivering enhanced value to members, and solidifying Grenada’s status as a premier Caribbean destination.”

    The assembly witnessed democratic transitions in leadership with the election of six new board members representing key industry segments. The newly appointed directors include:

    • Hotel Directors: Kendra Hopkin Stewart and Debbie Antoine
    • Affiliate Directors: Carlene Woodroffe and Marie Fielden
    • Tourism Directors: Mandoo Seales and Aaron Sylvester

    A highlight of the proceedings was the presentation of Tourism Enhancement Fund (TEF) scholarships to recipients Ciara Whiteman and Jaden Dominique. Current scholarship awardee Tia Thomas delivered an inspirational address to the new recipients, emphasizing: “This award represents more than financial support—it signifies profound belief in your potential. The entire industry recognizes your capabilities. How you leverage this opportunity matters tremendously. Approach your journey with preparation, responsibility, and initiative. Maximize every learning experience to develop professionally, and recognize the significant impact you can create within your communities and Grenada’s broader tourism ecosystem.”

    The TEF initiative continues to demonstrate its commitment to nurturing Grenada’s future hospitality leaders by supporting students pursuing careers within the sector.

    Concluding the meeting, GHTA President Elvis Lewis issued a compelling call to action, urging members to actively participate in association growth through membership expansion. “Our collective strength derives from unity,” Lewis emphasized, advocating for sustained collaboration to advance the interests of Grenada’s tourism industry.

    The GHTA reaffirmed its dedication to promoting excellence, innovation, and cross-sector collaboration throughout Grenada’s hospitality and tourism landscape.

  • Port Workers See Pay Raises, Benefits and New Equipment Under Reforms

    Port Workers See Pay Raises, Benefits and New Equipment Under Reforms

    Significant operational and labor reforms at the Antigua and Barbuda Port Authority are yielding substantial benefits for its workforce, marked by enhanced compensation packages, upgraded infrastructure, and improved industrial relations. The revelations were made by Senator Mary Claire Hurst, Chair of the Port Authority, during her address to the Upper House as part of the 2026 Budget Debate.

    Senator Hurst detailed a comprehensive strategy focused on fortifying working conditions while simultaneously boosting the efficiency of this vital national economic gateway. A cornerstone of this initiative is the introduction of inclusive paternity and maternity benefits for all employees, complemented by comprehensive group health insurance and an expanded suite of workplace perks.

    Compensation has seen a notable uplift, with port workers receiving a substantial 13 percent salary increase. This financial enhancement coincides with a positive shift in labor dynamics. Senator Hurst highlighted the consolidation of previously divided union representation into a single entity, a move that has drastically streamlined negotiation processes and accelerated decision-making. “The transition from two unions to a unified body has markedly improved the pace and ease of our operations,” she stated.

    Beyond human capital, the modernization drive includes major capital investment in equipment. The Authority has procured a new, state-of-the-art crane to replace antiquated machinery that was over two decades old and increasingly expensive to maintain. Hurst contrasted the exorbitant upkeep costs of the outdated infrastructure with the efficiency and reliability of the new investment.

    Crediting the port’s strong performance and growing capacity to its dedicated staff, Hurst emphasized management’s renewed commitment to supporting its workforce. This support is deemed essential as the port experiences increasing cargo volumes and expanding economic activity. “Our staff is our greatest asset; without them, our achievements would be impossible,” she affirmed to senators.

    The synergistic effect of improved labor conditions and modernized equipment is strategically positioning the Port Authority to effectively handle rising demand fueled by robust construction projects, a resurgent tourism sector, and expanding regional trade networks.

  • 4,600 vehicles imported into Antigua in 2025

    4,600 vehicles imported into Antigua in 2025

    Antigua and Barbuda’s strategic seaport has achieved unprecedented cargo handling performance, marking its most robust operational period in recorded history. Senator Mary Claire Hurst, Chair of the Antigua and Barbuda Port Authority, revealed these groundbreaking developments during the 2026 Budget Debate in the Upper House.

    The port’s remarkable growth trajectory demonstrates substantial increases across multiple cargo categories. Container volumes, measured in twenty-foot equivalent units (TEUs), have shown consistent annual growth, climbing from approximately 19,000 TEUs in 2023 to nearly 21,000 in 2024, and reaching beyond 23,000 TEUs in 2025—representing a notable nine percent year-to-date increase.

    Construction materials have emerged as a primary growth driver, with cement imports surging from 65,796 tonnes in 2024 to over 80,000 tonnes in 2025. Even more dramatically, aggregate, sand and stone imports witnessed an extraordinary 150 percent expansion during the same period.

    The automotive sector similarly demonstrated vigorous activity, with vehicle imports escalating from 1,429 units in 2021 to more than 4,600 units in 2025, indicating strengthened consumer purchasing power and commercial vitality.

    Senator Hurst identified several major national initiatives as key contributors to this cargo expansion, including the Booby Alley Housing Project, airport runway enhancements, cruise port modernization, and numerous hotel development projects. ‘The economic activity starts right there at the port,’ Hurst emphasized, highlighting the facility’s fundamental role in national development.

    Beyond domestic growth, the port has established itself as an emerging regional transshipment hub, strategically positioning Antigua and Barbuda within Eastern Caribbean logistics networks. Goods are now routinely routed through St. John’s Harbour for distribution to neighboring territories including St. Kitts and Nevis, Montserrat, Dominica, St. Lucia, St. Vincent, and Barbados.

    This transformed operational capacity underscores the port’s critical importance to the nation’s trade infrastructure, construction sector, and tourism economy, ultimately establishing Antigua and Barbuda as a pivotal logistics gateway within the Eastern Caribbean region.

  • Grenada and WIPO host Caribbean Creative Industries Music Forum

    Grenada and WIPO host Caribbean Creative Industries Music Forum

    Grenada served as the strategic epicenter for regional music innovation from December 9-11, hosting the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO) Caribbean Creative Industries Music Forum. Under the thematic banner “Amplifying Caribbean Music as a Global Gateway,” the event convened music industry stakeholders, government representatives, and international experts to architect a transformative framework for the sector’s future.

    The tripartite forum, jointly organized by WIPO and Grenada’s Ministries of Legal Affairs, Labour and Consumer Affairs, and Tourism, Creative Economy and Culture, assembled facilitators from five continents to address the digital revolution’s impact on musical creation and distribution. Participants engaged in intensive workshops to develop actionable strategies for leveraging intellectual property systems as catalysts for sustainable industry growth.

    Carol Simpson, WIPO’s Acting Director for Latin America and the Caribbean, framed the urgent necessity for this regional collaboration: “The global creative landscape is undergoing seismic shifts that outpace our conventional understanding. Streaming platforms, algorithmic recommendations, and data-driven markets have fundamentally reconfigured music creation and consumption patterns, while simultaneously introducing unprecedented challenges for creator protection.” Simpson emphasized that intellectual property transcends bureaucratic formalities, representing instead “the essential infrastructure that ensures fair compensation for creatives, enables confident investment by producers, and allows governments to construct durable creative ecosystems.”

    The forum’s inaugural day dedicated specific attention to Grenada’s domestic music industry, facilitating collaborative sessions between local musicians, producers, recording artists, and industry partners. These discussions yielded practical solutions for developing a national roadmap toward a flourishing creative economy.

    Senator Adrian Thomas, Minister for Tourism, Creative Economy and Culture, articulated the government’s strategic vision during the opening ceremony: “Our administration has executed targeted investments in the creative sector over three years as part of a comprehensive national strategy. We are building a skilled, competitive, and globally connected industry where intellectual property serves as the foundational element for modern music ecosystem development.”

    A landmark announcement emerged from Senator Claudette Joseph, Attorney General and Minister for Legal Affairs, Labour and Consumer Affairs, revealing Grenada’s accession to the Madrid Protocol for international trademark registration. This strategic move, effective April 2026, will provide Grenadian entrepreneurs and creatives with cost-effective mechanisms for trademark protection across 130+ countries through a single WIPO application.

    The forum concluded with participants committing to implement concrete measures that strengthen copyright frameworks, enhance collective management organizations, and establish digital registries—creating the necessary conditions for Caribbean music to achieve amplified global resonance while ensuring equitable benefits for its creators.

  • Intangible skills Caribbean professionals need to succeed in 2026

    Intangible skills Caribbean professionals need to succeed in 2026

    A profound transformation is reshaping career advancement pathways across the Caribbean region, where traditional markers of professional success are rapidly losing relevance. According to digital strategist Keron Rose, the established formula of academic credentials, job titles, and seniority no longer guarantees career progression or financial growth in the contemporary Caribbean business landscape.

    Many professionals throughout the islands report increasing frustration despite following conventional paths to success. Despite obtaining qualifications and demonstrating workplace commitment, numerous individuals find themselves constrained by stagnant compensation structures and limited advancement opportunities within often sluggish institutional frameworks. This widespread sentiment has prompted many to consider whether regional departure represents the only viable route to meaningful career development.

    Rose identifies 2026 as a pivotal juncture where intangible capabilities will outweigh formal credentials in determining professional achievement. The emerging success paradigm emphasizes personal leverage within imperfect systems rather than reliance on traditional institutional pathways. This shift demands fundamentally new approaches to professional development and value proposition articulation.

    Five transformative skills have emerged as critical differentiators for Caribbean professionals seeking advancement:

    1. Value Communication Mastery: Moving beyond job descriptions to articulate concrete problem-solving capabilities, risk mitigation, and revenue impact represents the foundation of modern professional positioning. Professionals must learn to express outcomes rather than responsibilities.

    2. Adaptive Learning Agility: With technological acceleration shortening skill relevance cycles, the capacity for rapid knowledge acquisition surpasses static expertise. Professionals must embrace continuous learning through global digital platforms rather than relying solely on formal education systems.

    3. Strategic Personal Branding: Visibility has become professional currency in the digital age. Building a discernible professional identity through platforms like LinkedIn enables Caribbean talent to transcend geographical limitations and connect with global opportunities.

    4. Systemic Efficiency Cultivation: Success increasingly belongs to those who maintain high performance standards despite working within inefficient systems. Professionals must resist normalizing mediocrity and instead champion excellence regardless of institutional constraints.

    5. Strategic Positioning: Conscious career navigation that anticipates market shifts and aligns skill development with emerging opportunities separates advancing professionals from stagnant counterparts.

    Rose emphasizes that these competencies collectively create leverage—the critical factor separating thriving professionals from those experiencing stagnation. The Caribbean region possesses abundant talent but requires new frameworks for channeling that potential effectively within evolving global economic structures.

    The digital strategist concludes that while institutional transformation may progress slowly, individual professionals can immediately begin repositioning themselves for success through deliberate skill development and strategic visibility enhancement.

  • Win for winemakers: Drinkers turn to homemade brews as alcohol costs soar

    Win for winemakers: Drinkers turn to homemade brews as alcohol costs soar

    Trinidad and Tobago’s recent alcohol duty increases have unexpectedly created a competitive advantage for the nation’s artisanal wine producers, transforming economic challenges into opportunities for growth. The substantial tax hikes implemented in October 2025—which doubled excise duties on spirits from $79.25 to $158.50 per litre of pure alcohol—have dramatically elevated prices of commercial liquors, effectively leveling the pricing field for small-batch local producers.

    This fiscal shift has catalyzed a notable consumer migration toward locally crafted wines, as reported by several family-run enterprises. Jabari Mayers of Wine and Whimsy observed that previously hesitant customers are now embracing local products: “The price increases for shelf drinks are forcing even those not originally inclined to support local in that direction.” His wife Shantelle noted that their specialized production methods using wine yeast rather than conventional yeast previously positioned their products at premium prices, but the tax adjustments have narrowed this gap significantly.

    The movement extends beyond mere price considerations. Jenissa Williams of Williams Wines identifies a cultural transformation: “People have developed a genuine appreciation for local wine across all age demographics. Younger consumers are increasingly participating in wine culture through tastings and sip-and-paint events.” Her business, sustained for over eleven years, utilizes indigenous fruits including sorrel, guava, passion fruit, and lay lay cherries, offering both full-size and sample-size bottles to accommodate consumer preferences.

    Retail expansion is simultaneously accelerating. Sisters Lynissa and Lyndi Jordan of Aurora Bitayson Ltd reported unprecedented interest from chain-store retailers at the 2025 Trade and Investment Convention, necessitating production scale-ups to meet distributor demands. They attribute this growth to both market trends and institutional support through government-sponsored wine-making courses, with one virtual program attracting over 300 participants.

    These enterprises represent more than commercial ventures—they embody cultural preservation. Williams traces her winemaking expertise to childhood observations of her great-grandmother’s techniques, while Aurora Bitayson honors their grandmother through eponymous branding while diversifying into fruit syrups, concentrates, and skincare products.

    The industry’s vitality reflects broader global patterns. PriceWaterhouseCoopers’ 2025 Global Family Business Survey revealed that 25% of family enterprises achieved double-digit sales growth despite economic contractions, underscoring the resilience of purpose-driven, family-rooted businesses that leverage long-term investment strategies and community reputation.

  • Massy Group’s after tax profit rises 14%

    Massy Group’s after tax profit rises 14%

    Massy Group has announced exceptional financial performance for fiscal year 2025, achieving a record-breaking profit after tax of $766.3 million. The Trinidad-based conglomerate demonstrated robust growth with third-party revenue reaching $15.8 billion and net cash value climbing to $1.67 billion, signaling strong financial health across its diversified portfolio.

    The 14% year-over-year profit increase from $674 million in 2024 reflects enhanced operational efficiency and strategic portfolio management. According to the December 18 financial disclosure, the company’s success stemmed from significant advancements across multiple sectors including retail, gas production, automotive machinery, and financial services.

    Integrated retail emerged as the dominant revenue generator, contributing over $9 billion—a 4% increase from previous periods. The motors and machines division achieved $3.73 billion in revenue despite an 18% decline in pre-tax profits to $186 million. Notably, gas products demonstrated remarkable profitability with an 8% profit surge to $385 million, even as revenue decreased by 6% to $2.03 billion.

    Shareholders benefited substantially from the company’s performance, with total dividends per share rising 5% to $17.70. Earnings per share jumped 9% to $36.49, representing a 9.8% earnings yield. The company’s share price appreciated by 5%, delivering investors a total return of 12.18%.

    These financial milestones coincide with significant leadership changes as James McLetchie assumed the role of Group President and CEO on October 1, succeeding David Affonso after his three-decade tenure. The organization also welcomed Ivette Zuniga as Chief Financial Officer and Ryan Latchu as CEO of the motors and machines portfolio.

    Chairman Robert Riley characterized 2025 as “a year of progress and renewal,” emphasizing the company’s investments in technology, innovation, and talent development. Despite these achievements, the Consumer Affairs Division’s December 18 supermarket price evaluation identified Massy as having some of the highest prices nationally, particularly in meat, fruits, and dry goods categories across over 40 assessed supermarkets.