Carib Scope

分类： business

  • Digicel caravan brings Christmas cheer

    Digicel caravan brings Christmas cheer

    Digicel has launched an expansive Christmas caravan initiative that is currently traversing Trinidad, delivering festive celebrations and substantial giveaways to local communities. The telecommunications giant’s pop-up caravan has already generated significant public enthusiasm through successful visits to Arima, Sangre Grande, and Port of Spain, with additional destinations scheduled before December 25.

    According to a December 12 corporate announcement, Digicel has deployed Santa Claus and holiday helpers to surprise customers with valuable gifts ranging from Christmas hams to full grocery provisions. The program emphasizes creating authentic moments of appreciation and meaningful connections with community members throughout its route.

    The company has converted multiple flagship stores and dealer locations into seasonal entertainment hubs featuring live performances, holiday treats, and appearances by popular social media influencers. Participants can engage in ‘Spin the Wheel’ games with over $700,000 in prizes available, including electronics and specialty holiday items through weekly giveaway events.

    This comprehensive community outreach forms the core of Digicel’s ‘Christmas Runs on Real Connections’ marketing campaign. The initiative strategically focuses on generating unexpected joyful experiences throughout December, enhancing customer engagement while celebrating the seasonal spirit through substantial corporate generosity.

  • TSTT-CWU affinity plan offers big savings to members

    TSTT-CWU affinity plan offers big savings to members

    In a significant development for telecommunications in Trinidad and Tobago, Telecommunications Services of TT (TSTT) has introduced a specialized affinity program offering substantial savings of up to 24% for Communications Workers’ Union (CWU) members, both active and retired. The initiative, unveiled on December 8 at TSTT House in Port of Spain, symbolizes a revitalized collaborative relationship between the company and the union.

    The program, developed through close coordination between TSTT’s Business and Consumer Sales team led by Vice President Reyanne Sobers and CWU leadership, provides the most competitive market rates for bundled telecommunications services. These comprehensive packages encompass mobile connectivity, internet access, TV/landline services, and home security solutions.

    Speaking at the launch ceremony, TSTT’s Acting CEO Keino Cox emphasized that the initiative transcends conventional commercial offerings. “This affinity plan represents a tangible expression of gratitude,” Cox stated. “It acknowledges the dedicated individuals who maintain our nation’s communications infrastructure—from those climbing poles and monitoring systems to customer service representatives and technology installers, including our valued retirees.”

    CWU Secretary General Joanne Oyleer echoed this sentiment, describing the event as “a proud moment” for stakeholder collaboration. She particularly highlighted the symbolic theme ‘Union Connected by TSTT’ and noted the absence of corporate pushback as evidence of the positive trajectory in labor-management relations.

    The affinity program forms an integral component of TSTT’s broader corporate transformation strategy, which aims to transition from traditional telecommunications provider to a high-performance technology company while keeping both current and former employees central to this evolution.

    TSTT Chairman Kern Dass reinforced this commitment, stating: “This initiative ensures that CWU members directly benefit from our business progress, delivering real value to the homes and lives of those who have built and continue to sustain our organization.”

    The plan is now available to all eligible union members and retirees, marking a new chapter of cooperation built on mutual respect and shared purpose between the telecommunications provider and the workers’ union.

  • HDC faces $113k lawsuit over unpaid janitorial services

    HDC faces $113k lawsuit over unpaid janitorial services

    A contractual dispute between Trinidad’s Housing Development Corporation (HDC) and one of its service providers has escalated into a legal standoff, with the cleaning company firmly rejecting the state agency’s request for additional time to address outstanding payments totaling $113,424.

    Businessman Alick Anthony Charles, proprietor of Dirt B Gone Janitorial & Maintenance Services Ltd, has through his legal representative refused HDC’s plea for a one-month extension to respond to a pre-action protocol letter. The company had been contracted to provide comprehensive waste management services at Ridgewood Gardens, Phase Two housing development in Golconda.

    According to legal documents obtained, attorney Kenneth Bradshaw of Bradshaw & Bradshaw Legal Solutions formally communicated his client’s position to both the permanent secretary of the Housing and Urban Development Ministry and HDC’s managing director on December 9. The correspondence emphasized that despite complete fulfillment of contractual obligations and proper submission of invoices, HDC has failed to remit payments for services rendered during March, June, July, August, September, and November.

    HDC’s December 5 response, which acknowledged the matter was under review by its legal department, sought a 30-day grace period for investigation. This request was met with firm opposition from Charles’ legal team, who cited ‘prolonged, unreasonable delay in breach of contract’ that has already caused significant operational and personal hardship.

    The attorney challenged the validity of HDC’s investigation rationale, characterizing it as ‘unparticularised, unsupported’ and potentially indicative of a stalling tactic. Legal representatives noted that all services had been verified on-site and approved through HDC’s internal payment channels, leaving no legitimate basis for further delay.

    In a final compromise, Charles’ legal team has offered a seven-day ultimatum for full settlement of the $113,424 debt, plus accrued interest and $3,500 in legal costs. Failure to comply will trigger immediate legal proceedings for debt recovery, damages for breach of contract, and escalation to the Office of the Procurement Regulator for investigation under public procurement legislation.

    The case highlights ongoing challenges in government procurement processes and the impact of payment delays on small businesses operating in the public sector supply chain.

  • Mexico Hits China With Tariffs Up to 50%

    Mexico Hits China With Tariffs Up to 50%

    In a significant trade policy shift, Mexico’s Senate has authorized comprehensive tariff increases exceeding 50% on imports from China and numerous non-free-trade-agreement nations, scheduled for implementation on January 1, 2026. The protective measures encompass approximately 1,400 product categories including industrial metals, automotive vehicles, textile apparel, and household appliances.

    Government officials assert these tariffs align with World Trade Organization regulations and are designed to bolster domestic manufacturing capabilities. Senator Claudia Selene Ávira emphasized the policy’s objective to “safeguard commodities that Mexican industrial sectors possess adequate production capacity to manufacture locally.”

    The automotive sector faces particularly stringent barriers, with Chinese-manufactured vehicles subject to the maximum 50% duty rate. This development occurs amid rapid market expansion by Chinese automotive giants BYD and MG within the Mexican marketplace.

    The Mexican Auto Industry Association has enthusiastically endorsed the protectionist measures. Association President Rogelio Garza characterized the policy as “exceptionally favorable for entities investing in Mexican industrial development and employment generation.”

    This strategic trade action coincides with ongoing negotiations between Mexican and United States trade representatives following former President Donald Trump’s allegations that Mexico serves as a transshipment conduit for Chinese commodities. Trump has previously threatened imposing substantial tariffs on Mexican steel, aluminum, and agricultural exports.

    Despite governmental assurances, economic analysts within Mexico caution that these protective tariffs may inadvertently elevate consumer prices and operational expenses for small-to-medium enterprises reliant on imported components.

  • LETTER TO THE EDITOR: Inter-Caribbean Airways and Inter-Caribbean Tourism – a fatal alliance

    LETTER TO THE EDITOR: Inter-Caribbean Airways and Inter-Caribbean Tourism – a fatal alliance

    A severe crisis in regional air connectivity is threatening the economic foundation of Caribbean tourism, according to a detailed account from traveler Anthony E. Le Blanc. The analysis presents a stark contrast between the historical service of the defunct LIAT and the current operations of its predominant replacement, Inter-Caribbean Airways.

    While LIAT was known for occasional minor delays, the carrier maintained a reputation for overall reliability and affordability. In sharp contrast, Inter-Caribbean Airways has established what the author describes as a near-guarantee of significant delays or outright cancellations. These disruptions frequently extend from several hours into multiple days, creating monumental complications for travelers with tight schedules.

    The consequences of these operational failures are both immediate and severe. Passengers routinely face financial losses from forfeited hotel and car rental reservations, miss critical business meetings, and even fail to attend important family events like funerals. Unlike traditional carriers that assume responsibility for passenger welfare during extended delays, Inter-Caribbean Airways reportedly avoids covering expenses for additional airport transportation, accommodation, or any form of compensation for incurred losses.

    The economic impact extends beyond individual travelers to affect the entire region’s productivity. Airports have transformed into unproductive waiting areas where significant economic potential is lost. Most alarmingly, the credibility of inter-Caribbean travel itself has been severely damaged, dealing what the author characterizes as a ‘near fatal blow’ to regional tourism over the past two years.

    The commentary highlights Caribbean Airlines as a notable exception, describing its service as ‘a breath of fresh air’ and suggesting that expanded operations from this carrier could help salvage the region’s vital tourism industry from the operational onslaught of Inter-Caribbean Airways.

    The author concludes that unless Inter-Caribbean Airways is compelled to bear the financial costs of the inconveniences it creates, the perception of reliable regional air transport will continue to deteriorate, with lasting consequences for the Caribbean economy.

  • Two New Abattoirs Planned as Government Targets Reduced Meat Imports

    Two New Abattoirs Planned as Government Targets Reduced Meat Imports

    In a strategic move to bolster national food security and reduce dependency on imports, Antigua and Barbuda’s government has unveiled a comprehensive agricultural modernization plan. Agriculture Minister Anthony Smith detailed during his 2026 Budget Debate address a multi-faceted initiative targeting the nation’s substantial annual meat import expenditure, which currently stands at approximately $75 million.

    The cornerstone of this agricultural transformation involves a significant infrastructure investment exceeding $4 million dedicated to revolutionizing the livestock processing sector. This funding will facilitate the construction of two specialized abattoirs alongside a complete renovation of the existing facility. The first new abattoir will exclusively handle poultry processing, while the second will be dedicated to pork and small ruminants. The retrofitted existing facility will transition to focus solely on beef production.

    Minister Smith emphasized the economic rationale behind this strategic investment, revealing that pork imports alone account for $20-25 million of the national import bill. He confirmed that local producers already possess the capacity to scale operations to meet domestic demand, indicating that the infrastructure development represents the missing component in the agricultural value chain.

    Beyond physical infrastructure, the ministry announced complementary support programs for agricultural workers nationwide. These initiatives include mass distribution of solar-powered lighting systems to enhance farm security, provision of seeds and fencing materials for crop farmers, and specialized wire for fisherfolk constructing fish pots.

    Smith, who has served as minister for approximately one year, framed these developments as part of a broader paradigm shift in agricultural policy that prioritizes affordability and sustainability alongside production metrics. The infrastructure expansion is strategically designed to attract private sector investment while creating a more resilient and self-sufficient food production system for the nation.

  • Cigarettes Dominate Free Zone Imports Despite PM’s Claim

    Cigarettes Dominate Free Zone Imports Despite PM’s Claim

    BELIZE CITY – A significant discrepancy has emerged between official statements and statistical evidence regarding import patterns within Belize’s commercial free zones. Prime Minister John Briceño has publicly asserted that tobacco products do not dominate the economic activity of the Corozal Free Zone. However, newly released data from the Statistical Institute of Belize (SIB) for the first ten months of 2025 presents a contrasting narrative.

    The latest trade figures reveal a substantial upswing in free zone imports, registering an increase exceeding $10.3 million compared to the corresponding period in 2024. Total imports surged from $291.8 million to $302.1 million. A detailed analysis identifies cigarette imports as the primary catalyst for this growth, accounting for a dominant 32% of all goods entering the zones. This segment alone approached a total value of $100 million, reflecting a net increase of approximately $20 million year-over-year.

    The statistical evidence was formally presented by SIB Statistician II Ronald Orellana. During a subsequent inquiry, when pressed to specify the exact proportion of growth attributable to cigarette imports, Orellana committed to providing a detailed breakdown following the presentation, underscoring the data’s complexity.

    This economic trend raises pertinent questions about the composition of Belize’s import economy and the dynamics of its commercial free zones, highlighting a clear divergence between political rhetoric and empirical data.

  • Belize’s Cost of Living Under the Microscope

    Belize’s Cost of Living Under the Microscope

    BELIZE CITY – A heated political confrontation over Belize’s escalating cost of living has intensified between the governing administration and opposition forces, revealing profound disparities in economic perspectives. The United Democratic Party (UDP) maintains that ordinary citizens face unsustainable financial pressures, while Prime Minister John Briceño’s administration highlights substantial social investments as evidence of progressive economic management.

    Recent statistical data from Belize’s authoritative Statistical Institute indicates a complex economic landscape. While overall inflation has demonstrated a moderating trend compared to previous years, essential categories including food commodities, housing expenditures, utilities, and transportation costs continue to exert significant pressure on household budgets. Particularly notable are price increases observed in non-alcoholic beverages, purified water, soft drinks, fruit juices, cereal products, meats, and various nuts.

    The housing sector has experienced a 2.4 percent price escalation, predominantly driven by rental costs increasing by 2.3 percent. Simultaneously, restaurant and accommodation services have recorded a 2.3 percent rise, primarily attributable to elevated food and beverage service costs climbing by 2.6 percent.

    Opposition representative Miguel Guerra articulated the UDP’s position, emphasizing that escalating costs for groceries, fuel, utilities, educational materials, and housing have created a quality-of-life crisis rather than merely an economic challenge. “Families are stretching their dollar further than it can go,” Guerra stated, noting that earned incomes increasingly fail to provide adequate purchasing power.

    Prime Minister Briceño countered these assertions by detailing governmental initiatives including minimum wage increases, expanded scholarship programs, nationwide school feeding initiatives, free educational provisions, and the comprehensive expansion of the National Health Insurance program. The Prime Minister acknowledged the limitations of price control on imported goods while defending fuel taxation as a necessary revenue mechanism funding these social programs.

    The fundamental dispute transcends statistical interpretations, reflecting deeper philosophical divisions regarding economic governance and social responsibility. As Belizeans navigate daily financial decisions at supermarkets, rental offices, and gasoline stations, the political discourse continues to evolve, with no immediate resolution in sight.

  • Economy : The US Congress is making progress toward renewing the HOPE/HELP program

    Economy : The US Congress is making progress toward renewing the HOPE/HELP program

    In a significant bipartisan move, the U.S. House Ways and Means Committee has initiated proceedings to renew critical trade legislation supporting Haiti’s economic stability. On December 10, 2025, lawmakers advanced discussions regarding the extension of both the HOPE II Act (Haitian Hemispheric Opportunity Through Partnership for Encouragement) and the HELP Act (Haiti Economic Lift Program). These preferential trade agreements have served as fundamental pillars for Haiti’s textile and apparel industry, providing tariff advantages for exports to the United States.

    Committee Chairman Jason Smith articulated the strategic importance of these programs, emphasizing their dual benefit for both nations. “Establishing equitable and mutually advantageous trade relations with Haiti generates employment opportunities and fosters stability in a nation historically challenged by humanitarian emergencies,” Smith stated during the session. “Haiti’s economic prosperity directly correlates with enhanced security outcomes for the United States within the Western Hemisphere.”

    The legislative package under consideration represents a continuation of trade policies initially established through the original HOPE Act. These measures have effectively positioned Haiti’s manufacturing sector as a primary driver of economic activity by enabling competitively priced access to the vast U.S. market. The renewal process demonstrates continued American commitment to supporting sustainable development in Haiti through structured economic partnership rather than direct aid.

    Industry analysts note that the textile and apparel sector accounts for approximately 90% of Haiti’s exports to the United States, making these trade preferences essential for maintaining economic stability. The bipartisan support for the renewal indicates recognition across political divides that economic development in Haiti aligns with broader regional security and diplomatic objectives.

  • Sugar Crop Start in Limbo as BSI & Cane Farmers Deal Still Pending

    Sugar Crop Start in Limbo as BSI & Cane Farmers Deal Still Pending

    The commencement of Belize’s crucial sugar harvesting season hangs in precarious balance as Belize Sugar Industries (BSI) and the Belize Sugar Cane Farmers Association (BSCFA) have yet to finalize a commercial agreement for the current season. This recurring deadlock has historically triggered industrial actions that paralyzed milling operations, resulting in substantial financial losses across the agricultural sector and broader economy.

    Compounding the contractual impasse, unfavorable weather conditions and ongoing maintenance at processing facilities have already delayed the season’s start. Industry analysts warn that any further postponement could severely impact crop yields and economic outcomes for all stakeholders.

    Despite the tension, Marcos Osorio, Chairman of the Sugar Industry Control Board, maintains cautious optimism. In an official statement, Osorio revealed that BSI maintains its position requiring seven-year contract terms, while confirming a critical meeting scheduled for next Tuesday involving all stakeholders and government representatives.

    “We remain hopeful that an agreement can be reached within coming days or before year’s end,” Osorio stated. “Both parties must approach negotiations in good faith with willingness to compromise. True negotiation requires flexibility from all sides to reach an amicable solution.”

    The industry now faces a race against time, with the combination of contractual delays, weather challenges, and milling readiness creating a perfect storm that could determine the season’s profitability for thousands of cane farmers and the national economy.