Pelican Village, formerly a quiet craft center, has undergone a significant transformation into a vibrant hub for small business development, spearheaded by Export Barbados. This initiative has created a dynamic ecosystem, providing nearly 50 small businesses with essential support to grow and potentially enter global markets. Mark Hill, Chief Executive Officer of Export Barbados, emphasizes a holistic...
The Caribbean Hotel and Tourism Association (CHTA) has announced the 2024 Virtual Annual General Meeting (AGM), which will take place on November 15, 2024. This significant event aims to unite key players in the region’s tourism and hospitality sectors, including government officials, hotel operators, and industry experts, to discuss strategies for boosting growth and resilience in the Caribbean’s...
The Jamaica Business Development Corporation (JBDC) is gearing up to host the highly anticipated Digital Jamaica Summit and Showcase on September 3, aimed at catapulting Jamaica’s micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs) into the digital era. Set against the backdrop of The Jamaica Pegasus hotel in New Kingston, this event promises a deep dive into the transformative power of digital...
On August 23, 2024, at the CAPA Airline Leader Summit for Latin America & the Caribbean, Rosa Harris, Chairman of the Caribbean Tourism Organisation (CTO), emphasized the increasing demand for premium and luxury travel across the Caribbean region. Harris remarked that there is currently "a lot more money" in the Caribbean travel market, highlighting the need for the tourism sector to strategically...
Caribbean hotel occupancy experienced fluctuations in 2024, largely due to the impact of Hurricane Beryl. While the first half of the year saw consistent growth in occupancy, with a peak of 71.3% by June, July saw a decline of 1.9% in occupancy compared to the previous year. This dip was attributed to the direct effects of Hurricane Beryl, which caused significant disruptions across several islands,...
Rosewood Hotels & Resorts has unveiled its latest jewel in the Caribbean, Rosewood Exuma, a secluded private island experience set in the stunning Exumas archipelago. Partnering with Miami-based investment firm Yntegra Group, Rosewood aims to redefine luxury and sustainability in this pristine Bahamian locale. Situated on the serene East Sampson Cay, Rosewood Exuma spans 124 acres of untouched...
In response to recent concerns regarding the Central Bank of Barbados' economic report and analysis, the institution has reiterated its commitment to accuracy, transparency, and public trust—principles that have been foundational throughout its 50-plus-year history. The Central Bank emphasizes the vital importance of precise, transparent, and objective economic reporting in maintaining public confidence...
The Caribbean Tourism Organization (CTO) has announced the preliminary roster of speakers for its upcoming State of the Industry Conference (SOTIC) in Grand Cayman, set to take place early next month. This year’s conference, held at the Westin Grand Cayman Seven Mile Beach Resort and Spa, is centered around the theme "Caribbean Tourism: Fueling Our Lifeblood." The theme underscores the critical...
Fortress Fund Managers (FFM) may see significant benefits for their Barbados dollar funds as global interest rates begin to decline. In FFM's June 2024 quarterly report, it was highlighted that the Fortress Caribbean Growth Fund, the Fortress Caribbean High Interest Fund, and the Fortress Caribbean Pension Fund are well-positioned to take advantage of this global trend. View Commercial Properties...
The Government of Barbados is crafting a comprehensive modern industrial policy aimed at strengthening local manufacturers and enhancing their ability to compete in international markets. This announcement was made by Minister of Industry, Innovation, Science, and Technology, Marsha Caddle, during the Barbados Manufacturers’ Association’s (BMA) 60th anniversary Mix & Mingle event at Hayman’s...