Saint Lucian exporters made a significant impact at a high-profile exhibition in Barbados, showcasing a wide array of premium products to bolster bilateral trade and explore new market opportunities. The event, organized by Export Saint Lucia, took place on Wednesday at Bagnalls Gallery, Pelican Centre, as part of a three-day trade mission aimed at deepening economic ties between the two nations. The exhibition featured a diverse range of locally manufactured goods, including coffee, cocoa, skincare products, rum, and tissue items, all proudly made in Saint Lucia. Among the standout participants was Noble Tree Coffee and Cocoa Saint Lucia, whose founders, Candy Philpott-Malpass and Keith Malpass, highlighted their efforts to revive the island’s once-thriving coffee industry. Through partnerships with local farmers and innovative product development, the company has seen a remarkable increase in harvests, from 250 kilograms in 2017 to six tonnes in 2024. Tolyn Manufacturers Ltd., a family-run tissue producer since 1982, also showcased its range of bathroom and kitchen products, aiming to penetrate the Barbadian market. Other exhibitors included Saint Lucia Distillers, Cacoa Sainte Lucie, Natmed Ltd., and Auera, representing the island’s thriving rum, cocoa, skincare, and wellness sectors. Sunita Daniel, CEO of Export Saint Lucia, emphasized the expo’s goal of providing Barbadian distributors with direct access to Saint Lucia’s high-quality, internationally compliant products. She noted the positive reception from Barbadian consumers and highlighted ongoing discussions between Export Saint Lucia and Export Barbados to enhance regional trade collaboration. The trade mission, which concludes on Friday, includes a series of business engagements aimed at increasing Saint Lucian exports to Barbados.
标签： Barbados
巴巴多斯
-
President bids farewell at St Ann’s Fort
In a poignant ceremony brimming with military precision and national pride, Dame Sandra Mason, Barbados’ first President, concluded her nearly decade-long tenure as the nation’s constitutional leader. The event, held at St Ann’s Fort, saw detachments from the Barbados Defence Force, Barbados Police Service, Barbados Coast Guard, and Barbados Cadet Corps assembled in meticulous formation to honor her service. As both the last governor-general and the inaugural president of the Republic, Mason’s farewell marked a significant chapter in Barbados’ history. Reflecting on her journey, she described it as one she “could not have imagined” when she first entered public life. Mason emphasized the theme of service, both her own and that of the forces she led as commander-in-chief, stressing the solemn responsibility of safeguarding national institutions and supporting those who protect democracy. She praised the professionalism of the armed and protective services, highlighting their role in maintaining security and participating in regional humanitarian missions. Mason also acknowledged her personal growth through leadership, noting that true leadership requires decisiveness, integrity, humility, and gratitude. She expressed special appreciation for the Barbados Cadet Corps, recalling their creative displays during her tenure. As her term ends, Mason framed the moment as part of Barbados’ ongoing national evolution, urging citizens to continue their essential role in nation-building. She concluded with heartfelt gratitude, stating, “I will always carry with me the pride of having been your commander-in-chief. May God bless you, and may God bless Barbados.”
-
Minister Blackman to present student service plan to Cabinet soon
In a groundbreaking announcement, Chad Blackman, Minister of Educational Transformation, unveiled plans to introduce mandatory community service for all secondary school students in Barbados. Speaking at a UNICEF-organized graduation ceremony for student ambassadors at the Lloyd Erskine Sandiford Centre (LESC), Blackman emphasized that the initiative aims to transform national development by equipping young people with essential life skills beyond academic achievement.
-
Cooperation in tourism, aviation and maritime discussed with China
In a significant diplomatic engagement, Barbados’ Minister of Tourism and International Transport, Ian Gooding-Edghill, welcomed the People’s Republic of China’s Ambassador to Barbados, Zheng Bingkai, for a high-level discussion at the ministry’s headquarters in Warrens. The meeting underscored the deepening bilateral relationship between the two nations, particularly in the realms of tourism and international transportation. Both parties explored avenues for enhanced collaboration, with a focus on technical assistance, training in aviation and maritime sectors, and infrastructure development at Barbados’ air and seaports. Minister Gooding-Edghill highlighted the enduring partnership with China, expressing gratitude for its unwavering support over the past 48 years. Key topics on the agenda included strategies to boost Chinese tourist arrivals, the implementation of an Air Services Agreement, advancements in data analytics, and the integration of electric buses into Barbados’ transport system. Ambassador Zheng emphasized the critical role of the tourism and transport sectors in driving economic growth and reaffirmed China’s commitment to fostering mutual interests. The dialogue marked another milestone in the diplomatic relations established between Barbados and China on May 30, 1977, paving the way for continued cooperation and shared prosperity.
-
Just rain? We still ain’t ready yet
Barbados faced a sobering reality this past weekend as intense rainfall wreaked havoc across the island, exposing critical vulnerabilities in infrastructure and emergency preparedness. The downpour, concentrated on one side of the island, overwhelmed roads, trapped residents, and tragically claimed the life of one man. Despite not being a named storm or hurricane, the event stretched emergency services to their limits, highlighting the island’s fragility in the face of extreme weather.
-
Biz shielded from new tax, compliance burden as law repealed — minister
Barbados has assured its business community that the repeal of the Companies (Economic Substance) Act will not impose new taxes or additional compliance burdens on domestic firms. Senator Lisa Cummins, Minister of Energy and Business Development, emphasized that the global minimum tax regime and economic substance rules apply only to large multinational corporations earning approximately €750 million annually. Since the majority of Barbadian companies fall below this threshold, they are exempt from these requirements. Senator Cummins clarified that businesses will continue to pay the existing corporate tax rate of 9 to 9.5 percent, and the reform aims to simplify administration by consolidating reporting under the Barbados Revenue Authority (BRA). Transitional rules remain in effect for the 2024 fiscal period, with full implementation of the consolidated regime starting in 2025. Only shipping, insurance, and intellectual property sectors face heightened compliance requirements. The government is also advancing transparency reforms, including the introduction of a Beneficial Ownership Register and negotiating updated double taxation agreements to strengthen Barbados’ global business credibility.
-
Bradshaw urges urgent action on homelessness surge
A significant increase in homelessness, particularly in St Michael and the capital city, has sparked urgent appeals from Deputy Prime Minister Santia Bradshaw for a unified government and community response. Speaking at the Ideas Forum held at Golden Square Freedom Park on Tuesday, Bradshaw, who represents St Michael South East, emphasized the need for a “whole of government” and “whole of society” approach to tackle this escalating crisis. She highlighted the visible presence of homeless individuals near Parliament and Independence Square, stressing that while financial allocations are essential, a more direct and comprehensive strategy is required. Bradshaw pointed out that many homeless individuals also grapple with mental health issues, underscoring the importance of empathy and structured support rather than judgment or neglect. She urged for early interventions to prevent vulnerable individuals from ending up on the streets and initiatives to help those already homeless reintegrate into society. Bradshaw noted that the issue appears particularly severe in St Michael constituencies and the capital, calling for targeted programs to address the root causes and provide necessary support for reintegration.
-
COVID cases rise alongside flu, RSV
Barbados is currently experiencing a significant increase in COVID-19 cases and other respiratory illnesses, according to Chief Medical Officer Dr. Kenneth George. Despite the surge, Dr. George confirmed on Wednesday that there are no plans to reintroduce mandatory mask-wearing. The Ministry of Health is closely monitoring the situation, particularly focusing on vulnerable populations such as the elderly and those with compromised immune systems, who are being urged to take extra precautions. Dr. George explained that the rise in COVID-19 infections has contributed to the spread of other respiratory diseases, including influenza A, rhinovirus, and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV). This uptick aligns with the typical cold and flu season, which begins in November and extends into the early months of the following year. A doctor from a rural polyclinic reported that all 47 patients recently swabbed in a single community tested positive for COVID-19, highlighting the virus’s prevalence. Dr. George emphasized that while COVID-19 remains a concern, it is now ‘in the rear-view mirror,’ and the public has been educated on how to protect themselves. He stressed that specific precautions are necessary for high-risk individuals, but mask mandates will not be reinstated. Data from the Best-dos Santos Public Health Laboratory revealed a 23.8% positivity rate for respiratory illnesses among 2,100 samples tested this year, with cases ranging from infants to individuals in their 90s. The laboratory detected pathogens such as COVID-19, influenza A, and rhinovirus, with a notable increase in RSV cases among very young children. Authorities continue to monitor the situation closely.
-
Men in Maroon keep eyes on 2027 World Cup
Despite trailing in their three-match ODI series against New Zealand, the West Indies cricket team remains steadfast in their pursuit of an automatic qualification spot for the 2027 ICC 50-over World Cup. Assistant coach Floyd Reifer emphasized the team’s mission to secure their place in the prestigious tournament, scheduled to be hosted by South Africa, Zimbabwe, and Namibia. The top eight teams in the ICC ODI rankings as of March 31, 2027, will join the host nations in securing automatic berths, leaving the remaining four spots to be contested in qualifying tournaments—a scenario the West Indies are determined to avoid. Currently, the Men in Maroon hold the ninth position in the rankings, just two rating points ahead of Bangladesh, making every match in the ongoing series against New Zealand crucial. Reifer highlighted the team’s progress since missing the 2023 World Cup, noting significant improvements in their batting and recent series victories that have boosted their ranking. ‘We’re trying to work on our consistency in all three departments,’ Reifer stated, expressing optimism about the team’s development. The West Indies’ immediate goal is to recover from their first-game defeat and level the series in the second ODI on Tuesday in Napier. Their broader objective remains clear: win matches, accumulate ranking points, and secure their place in the 2027 World Cup.
-
Teen Talent, Over-21 stars crowned in Richard Stoute competitions
The Richard Stoute Teen Talent and Over 21 competitions recently concluded, showcasing remarkable performances and awarding over $30,000 in cash prizes. In the Teen Talent category, Dacia Moore claimed victory with an impressive 1,253 points, securing the grand prize of $10,000. Crayshanda St Hill followed in second place with 1,162 points, earning $5,000, while Joshua Osbourne took third place with 1,142 points and $3,500. Kymani Devonish and Chelsea Cadogan-Goddard rounded out the top five, receiving $2,000 and $1,000, respectively. In the Over 21 category, Kyrique Alleyne dominated with 1,283 points, winning the top prize of $3,000. Dave Cumberbatch and Lisa Hackett secured second and third places, earning $2,000 and $1,500, respectively. Zadora Griffith and Benoni Blackett completed the top five, receiving $1,000 and $750. Special awards included the Richard Stoute Award, recognizing team spirit and deportment, which went to ZZ Cumberbatch (Teen Talent) and Kyrique Alleyne (Over 21). The Best Spouge Performance Award, worth $500, was awarded to Teen Talent Damario Foster. The National Cultural Foundation praised all participants for their dedication and thanked the public for their unwavering support.