Caribbean Insight
The Caribbean Council's Flagship Fortnightly Publication
Caribbean Insight is The Caribbean Council’s flagship fortnightly publication. Our comprehensive publication offers the latest in news, analysing business and political developments across the region.
From The Bahamas to French Guiana, each edition consists of a country-by-country analysis of the leading news stories of consequence, distilling developments across the Caribbean into a single must-read publication. Each edition contains two leading articles providing in-depth analysis of topical political, economic and developmental issues in the region.
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Lead Articles Featured on Caribbean Insight
Friday 3rd July 2026
Grand Bahama is emerging as one of the Caribbean’s largest investment destinations, with more than US$3.5bn in public and private sector projects either underway or in advanced planning as the Bahamian government pushes ahead with an ambitious strategy to transform the island into a regional hub for tourism, trade, logistics and industry.
Speaking during the 2026/27 Budget Debate, Prime Minister Philip Davis described Grand Bahama as a model of national progress, pointing to a surge in tourism, major infrastructure investments and a pipeline of developments expected to reshape the island’s economy over the next several years.
According to Davis, visitor arrivals to Grand Bahama increased by 91.2%, surpassing 1mn visitors and making it the fastest-growing destination in The Bahamas. He also highlighted reforms in the island’s energy sector following the government’s acquisition of the Grand Bahama Power Company, which has resulted in lower electricity bills for many consumers.
The Prime Minister praised Grand Bahama Minister Ginger Moxey for driving the island’s transformation, stating that she is “transforming the old symbols of stalled development. The International Bazaar and Royal Oasis into a future Afro-Marketplace,” while also advancing housing initiatives, neighbourhood renewal and employment programmes.
At the centre of the island’s investment drive is the US$827mn redevelopment of the Grand Lucayan Resort by Concord Wilshire Capital. The mixed-use project will feature a new 550-room Hilton-branded hotel and casino, expanded family accommodations, a second casino linked to a cruise resort, a mega-yacht marina, more than 20 restaurants and international retail facilities.
Demolition at the Grand Lucayan site began in April after months of speculation over the project’s future. Concord Wilshire Chief Executive Officer Richard Bosworth dismissed reports that the development had stalled. “We want to be very clear: the redevelopment of the Grand Lucayan Resort is moving forward,” he declared.
The redevelopment is expected to receive a significant boost from MSC Cruises, which plans to acquire approximately 20 beachfront acres within the resort to develop the MSC Beach Club, an exclusive destination for passengers travelling on MSC Cruises and Explora Journeys vessels.
Concord Wilshire President Nate Sirang said the cruise-focused developments would become a major catalyst for economic activity. “Together, the MSC Beach Club and the Ancient Waters Cruise Resort are projected to welcome more than 1mn guests annually,” Sirang said. “Combined with the activation of the Mega Marina and Casino Resort, this development will generate substantial economic activity, create meaningful employment opportunities… and will serve as the cornerstone for the long-anticipated revitalisation of the Lucayan property.”
Beyond the Grand Lucayan redevelopment, MSC Cruises has committed US$450mn to develop a new cruise port at Freeport, featuring a dedicated pier, terminal, beach club and retail village. A further US$50mn will be invested in harbour infrastructure upgrades, while plans also include facilities capable of accommodating larger XL-class cruise ships as Grand Bahama targets 4mn annual cruise passengers by 2028.
MSC’s wider investment programme in The Bahamas, including upgrades to Ocean Cay MSC Marine Reserve and the development of a second private island destination, is approaching US$1.5bn and is expected to create more than 1,000 jobs.
Royal Caribbean is also positioning itself to become a major investor in Grand Bahama. The cruise company has reportedly completed the acquisition of the long-closed Xanadu Beach Hotel for approximately US$30mn and is close to finalising the purchase of adjoining properties to create a 28-acre private beach destination for its passengers.
According to the Central Bank of The Bahamas, Royal Caribbean and Celebrity Cruises have already received government approval to acquire a 40-acre site for a US$348mn recreational and entertainment development. The project would complement the company’s partnership with MSC in expanding Freeport Harbour while creating another private cruise destination on the island.
A Royal Caribbean spokesperson said the company continues evaluating opportunities in The Bahamas. “We are always assessing our portfolio and continue to explore future projects to offer the best vacation experiences for our guests and drive economic growth in the communities we visit,” said the statement.
The investments align with the Davis Administration’s broader vision of positioning Grand Bahama as the country’s principal gateway for regional commerce. “Grand Bahama will become the gateway to the Caribbean for trade, tourism, and investment,” read an excerpt from this year’s Throne Speech.
Earlier this year, British airport operator, Manchester Airports Group (MAG) were appointed by the Government of The Bahamas to operate and develop Grand Bahama International Airport (GBIA). The UK’s largest airport group are charged with overseeing the airport’s long term redevelopment, including delivery of a new passenger terminal and upgraded infrastructure.
Alongside tourism developments, the strategy includes the Afro-Caribbean Marketplace and Logistics Centre, reforms involving the Grand Bahama Port Authority, industrial investment initiatives and infrastructure improvements designed to strengthen Freeport’s role as a regional logistics and commercial hub.
If the current pipeline of projects proceeds as planned, Grand Bahama could experience its largest wave of investment in decades, fundamentally reshaping the island’s economy, significantly expanding tourism capacity, creating thousands of jobs and reinforcing its position as one of the Caribbean’s leading centres for trade, logistics and cruise tourism.
Source: Caribbean Insight – Volume 48, Issue 13
Friday 19th June 2026
Diplomatic tensions between Trinidad and Tobago and Venezuela have intensified after Caracas accused its Caribbean neighbour of being responsible for a second major oil spill that it claims has contaminated Venezuelan waters, threatened marine ecosystems and disrupted fishing communities along its northeastern coast.
The dispute marks the latest flashpoint in an already strained bilateral relationship, with Venezuela warning that it may seek compensation and pursue action through international bodies if Trinidad and Tobago is found liable for the alleged environmental damage.
In a strongly worded statement, Venezuela’s Foreign Ministry said satellite imagery had confirmed that a hydrocarbon slick originating from Trinidad and Tobago had drifted into Venezuelan waters. The Ministry argued that the latest incident was larger than a similar spill reported in May and posed serious environmental risks.
“This event exceeds in magnitude the one that occurred in May and confirms the drift of pollutants toward Venezuelan waters,” the Venezuelan government said.
Caracas warned that the spill represented a growing threat to marine life, fishing activity and coastal communities. “There is a threat to the marine ecosystems and fishing activities and coastal communities,” said the Foreign Ministry, while demanding that Trinidad and Tobago “fully assume its responsibility by adopting immediate measures to prevent further incidents.”
The Venezuelan government further declared that it “reserves the right to take appropriate action before the competent international bodies to determine responsibility, demand any applicable compensation, and prevent the recurrence of similar events.”
Officials said state agencies had activated mitigation protocols and intensified environmental monitoring in affected coastal areas. Reports circulating on social media showed black oil-like substances coating seaweed washing ashore near Punto Guiria on Venezuela’s northeastern coast, fuelling public concern about the potential impact on tourism and fishing livelihoods.
“I am calling on the authorities, or whoever controls this, or the Government of Trinidad, to ensure that when this happens, it’s regulated or controlled as best as possible so that the tourist area of the municipality isn’t damaged any further,” said one resident, appealing for action.
Trinidad and Tobago, however, has pushed back against the allegations and says it has found no evidence supporting claims of a significant spill.
Energy Minister Roodal Moonilal said government agencies had immediately launched investigations after learning of Venezuela’s accusations. Surveillance operations involving the Air Guard, Coast Guard and drone technology were deployed to search for signs of contamination.
“The Air Guard and Coast Guard have been deployed to do reconnaissance work on the sea and with drones to determine the facts,” Moonilal told Reuters.
The minister said Trinidad and Tobago had formally requested coordinates from Venezuelan authorities to help verify the reported spill and conduct an independent assessment. He also revealed that Foreign Affairs Minister Sean Sobers had engaged directly with the Venezuelan Embassy in Port of Spain and that discussions with Venezuelan Ambassador Alvero Enrique Sanchez Cordero had been cordial and focused on information sharing.
State-owned Heritage Petroleum, which became a focal point of the controversy because of previous spill allegations, also rejected claims that a major release of hydrocarbons had occurred.
Following field inspections, vessel patrols and reviews of operational monitoring systems, the company reported no irregularities. “Currently, there is no evidence to support the presence of large amounts of hydrocarbons in the sea,” Heritage stated.
The company added that surveillance conducted alongside the Trinidad and Tobago Coast Guard had revealed “no visible slicks or marine abnormalities,” although investigations remain ongoing.
The latest accusations revive memories of earlier disputes between the two countries. In May, Venezuelan Foreign Minister Yván Gil accused Trinidad and Tobago of failing to communicate adequately following a leak at Heritage Petroleum’s Riser Platform No. 2 in the Main Soldado Field. Venezuela claimed that incident threatened mangroves, wetlands and marine biodiversity, while Trinidad and Tobago maintained the leak involved only about 10 barrels of oil and had been successfully contained.
The current row also follows broader political tensions that have emerged over the past year. Relations between the neighbours deteriorated after Trinidad and Tobago’s government adopted a tougher stance on Venezuelan migration and publicly supported US actions that resulted in military intervention and the capture of Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro.
Environmental groups in Trinidad and Tobago are urging greater transparency as the dispute unfolds. Fishermen and Friends of the Sea warned that repeated reports of spills are undermining confidence in marine resources and harming fishing communities already facing declining catches and economic uncertainty.
With Caracas insisting that satellite evidence confirms the spill and Port of Spain maintaining that investigations have found no signs of contamination, the dispute appears set to test diplomatic relations between the two energy-producing neighbours while raising broader questions about environmental accountability in the Gulf of Paria.
Source: Caribbean Insight – Volume 48, Issue 12
Friday 05th June 2026
The Caribbean banking landscape is poised for one of its most significant transformations in decades following an agreement by Bermuda-based Butterfield to acquire Canadian Imperial Bank of Commerce’s (CIBC) 91.7% stake in CIBC Caribbean for approximately US$1.8bn.
The transaction, which is expected to close in the first half of 2027 pending regulatory and shareholder approvals, will create a banking and wealth management group with approximately US$29bn in assets and an expanded footprint across some of the region’s most important financial centres.
The acquisition marks a major strategic shift for both institutions. For CIBC, the sale represents the culmination of a gradual repositioning strategy that has seen the Canadian banking giant reduce its direct exposure in parts of the Caribbean over recent years. For Butterfield, it represents a bold expansion into mainstream commercial banking throughout the region.
Under the terms of the agreement, Butterfield will pay a total purchase price of US$1.794bn, consisting of US$1.091bn in cash and US$703mn in Butterfield shares. The offer values CIBC Caribbean at US$1.14 per share.
To support the acquisition, Butterfield has secured commitments for US$700mn in Tier 2 capital-qualifying subordinated debt financing, expected to be raised before closing. The bank said the combined entity should remain well above regulatory capital thresholds, with a pro forma Common Equity Tier 1 ratio above 12% and total capital above 19% at closing.
Following completion, Butterfield will launch a mandatory takeover bid for the remaining 8.3% of CIBC Caribbean shares held by minority shareholders. They will be offered equivalent economic terms and may choose to receive up to 100% of their consideration in Butterfield shares, allowing them to retain an ownership interest in the combined institution. CIBC is expected to retain an approximately 22% ownership stake in the combined entity and will have the right to appoint two directors to Butterfield’s board.
Butterfield Chairman and Chief Executive Officer Michael Collins described the transaction as a natural progression of the bank’s growth strategy. “Since Butterfield’s 2016 listing on the NYSE, we have successfully grown and enhanced profitability through bank and trust acquisitions,” Collins said. He added that, “This deal combines two storied and complementary banks, with significant local scale advantages and time-honored customer relationships in their respective core jurisdictions.”
While the Butterfield’s shares will continue to trade on the New York Stock Exchange and the Bermuda Stock Exchange, the bank intends to pursue secondary listings on the Barbados Stock Exchange, the Bahamas International Securities Exchange and the Trinidad and Tobago Stock Exchange, subject to regulatory approvals. The move is expected to increase regional investor participation, enhance share liquidity and provide Caribbean investors with greater access to ownership.
The entity will provide enhanced corporate, personal and wealth management services, stronger cross-border payment capabilities, expanded merchant banking solutions and continued investment in digital banking infrastructure. Butterfield has also pledged to maintain CIBC Caribbean’s regional headquarters in Barbados and preserve both organisations’ operational footprints across the region.
CIBC Caribbean Chief Executive Officer Mark St. Hill welcomed the transaction. “For our clients, employees and communities, this combination brings together two organisations with shared values and a common focus on relationship banking, innovating and community impact,” he noted.
The announcement has generated considerable discussion among banking executives, investors and policymakers throughout the Caribbean. Mariano Browne, Chief Executive Officer of the UWI Arthur Lok Jack Global School of Business and a former Butterfield Barbados executive, described the acquisition as a transformational move.
According to Browne, the acquisition fundamentally changes Butterfield’s market positioning. “This is really a change in Butterfield’s positioning because it now picks up both a retail and a business portfolio which spans the entire gamut of the region, and probably could make it the biggest bank in the region,” he observed.
The deal has also attracted attention from Caribbean governments. In Antigua and Barbuda, Prime Minister Gaston Browne welcomed the transaction and expressed interest in securing local participation in the new ownership structure. “We have said to them, look, we’ll give them the approval, but we would like to have some opportunity for the local banks to participate,” Browne said. He noted that Antigua Commercial Bank had already expressed interest should opportunities arise.
Labour representatives across the region have meanwhile focused on employee protections. The Antigua and Barbuda Workers’ Union has called for full transparency throughout the process and urged adherence to labour laws governing severance rights, continuity of service and collective bargaining arrangements.
In response, CIBC Caribbean has sought to reassure staff that “Butterfield is committed to the continuity of CIBC’s Caribbean team with existing compensation and benefits for all current CIBC Caribbean management and employees.”
Once completed, the acquisition will create one of the region’s largest financial institutions, combining Butterfield’s expertise in wealth management and offshore financial services with CIBC Caribbean’s extensive retail and commercial banking network. With approximately 2,700 employees, 41 branches and operations across 10 Caribbean countries, the new entity is expected to play a central role in shaping the future of banking, investment and financial services across the region.
Photo credit: https://www.bermuda.com/butterfield-bank/
Source: Caribbean Insight – Volume 48, Issue 11
Friday 22th May 2026
Prime Minister Philip Davis and his Progressive Liberal Party (PLP) have secured a decisive victory in the 12 May 2026 general election, marking the first time in nearly three decades that a political party has achieved consecutive election wins.
The PLP captured 33 of the 41 seats in Parliament, comfortably defeating the opposition Michael Pintard-led Free National Movement (FNM), which secured eight seats. The outcome cements Davis’ position as the first prime minister since the 1990s to retain office for back-to-back terms.
Addressing supporters in Nassau following the announcement, Davis struck a conciliatory tone. “To Bahamians who voted today but did not vote for us, I want you to know I’ve listened to you, I’ve heard you, and I want you to know that I will continue to work hard for all Bahamians,” said Davis.
The election was dominated by key socio-economic concerns, including rising cost of living, housing access, crime, immigration and healthcare. In the lead-up to the vote, the government moved to remove value-added tax (VAT) on certain grocery items, a policy that drew mixed reactions regarding its effectiveness in easing household financial pressures.
Despite the opposition’s defeat, Pintard retained his parliamentary seat and acknowledged the outcome. “The Bahamian people made their choice… In a democracy, that is the only voice that ultimately matters,” he said to supporters. Pintard also indicated that the FNM will undertake a comprehensive review of its electoral performance.
The scale of the PLP’s victory has given the Davis administration broad legislative control, but it has also reignited debate about governance structure and accountability. Within days of the election, Davis unveiled one of the largest Cabinets in Bahamian history, appointing a 28-member executive comprising 21 Cabinet ministers and seven state ministers, in addition to himself.
Defending the size of the administration, Davis argued that the scale of national challenges required expanded leadership capacity. “We also need the best hands-on deck,” he said, adding that the approach had previously enabled the government to deliver results that earned renewed public confidence. He stressed that “the task ahead is even greater” and demanded the mobilisation of all available talent.
The Cabinet includes several high-profile appointments, with Deputy Prime Minister Chester Cooper assuming responsibility for Education, Science and Technology, and Michael Halkitis as Minister of Finance. Other key portfolios include Fred Mitchell as Minister of Foreign Affairs, Michael Darville as Minister of Health and Wellness, and Glenys Hanna-Martin as Minister of Tourism.
Beyond Cabinet, the administration has completed its executive structure with the appointment of parliamentary secretaries and senators, reinforcing what officials described as a comprehensive governance framework aligned with the government’s development agenda.
However, the expanded executive has drawn criticism from the opposition, which argues that concentrating a large number of elected members within Cabinet risks undermining parliamentary oversight. Pintard contended that the arrangement limits the ability of government backbenchers to provide internal scrutiny. “It is not an appropriate situation where the majority of elected members are cabinet members because what you want is healthy, robust discussion on issues and room for disagreement,” he warned.
Pintard also raised concerns about the fiscal implications of the enlarged administration, questioning the price tag that comes with appointments, a point that could become more prominent as the government advances its policy agenda.
Deputy Prime Minister Cooper, speaking during the swearing-in of parliamentary secretaries, underscored the administration’s responsibility to deliver tangible outcomes. “Let us never forget this, we are all servant leaders. No office is above the people,” he said, adding that citizens “expect government to move with urgency, to listen, to act, and to remain close to the realities of their lives.”
Davis has signalled that his second term will be guided by a “Blueprint for Progress” focused on economic stability, infrastructure development, education reform, healthcare improvement and public safety. “Our mandate from the Bahamian people was won on our promise to complete what we started in the last term… The work begins immediately,” said Davis.
The election outcome reflects both voter endorsement of the PLP’s first-term performance and the electorate’s expectations for accelerated delivery in its second term. While the government enters this new phase with significant political capital, it also faces heightened scrutiny over governance, fiscal management and its ability to translate electoral support into measurable socio-economic gains.
Photo Credit https://www.facebook.com/myplp/
Source: Caribbean Insight – Volume 48, Issue 10
Friday 8th May 2026
The Antigua and Barbuda Labour Party (ABLP), led by Prime Minister Gaston Browne, has secured a historic fourth consecutive term in office following a snap general election that delivered a decisive and unprecedented mandate.
Official results confirmed that the ABLP captured 15 of the 17 parliamentary seats, reducing the opposition United Progressive Party (UPP) to a single seat. Opposition leader Jamale Pringle retained his constituency, while Trevor Walker secured the remaining seat for the Barbuda People’s Movement.
The election, called two years ahead of the constitutional deadline, was dominated by issues of rising living costs, infrastructure development, and economic management. Despite these pressures, voters delivered a resounding endorsement of Browne’s administration, extending his leadership beyond a decade and marking the first time in modern history that a party has achieved four consecutive electoral victories in the country.
“We will build one nation united and inclusive where all who are willing to come together under the banner of one Antigua and Barbuda will share in the reward of their efforts” said Browne, emphasising national unity and shared prosperity in an address to jubilant supporters.
The voting process itself was widely described as orderly and efficient, with external observers noting strong turnout and improved logistics, including an increase in polling stations. Election officials reported that the exercise was conducted in a free and fair manner, reinforcing confidence in the country’s democratic institutions.
In the immediate aftermath of the vote, Browne and Attorney General Steadroy Benjamin were sworn into office, followed by a full Cabinet swearing-in days later. In a significant constitutional shift, newly elected officials pledged allegiance to the state rather than the British monarch, following reforms enacted in December 2025 that removed references to King Charles III from the oath of office.
During the swearing-in ceremony, Browne underscored the responsibility accompanying the electoral victory. “Whereas your success at the polls has earned you the confidence and trust of the people; that confidence and trust collectively, is not a gift to be enjoyed, or trust to be betrayed. It is a burden to be carried, a duty to be performed, a trust to be honoured every single day,” said Browne to his party.
The newly appointed Cabinet largely retains continuity, with key ministers remaining in portfolios tied to major national projects. “We reappointed the ministers to continue some of the work they already started,” said Browne.
Among the principal appointments, Melford Nicholas retains responsibility for Information Communication Technologies, Utilities and Energy, a critical portfolio amid ongoing water supply and energy challenges. Maria Browne continues as Minister for Housing and Works, overseeing an expansive nationwide road rehabilitation and infrastructure programme central to the government’s growth strategy.
In the human capital and development space, Daryll Matthew remains Minister of Education, Science and Technology, with a mandate that includes the continued expansion of the University of the West Indies Five Islands Campus. On the external front, E. P. Chet Greene continues as Minister of Foreign Affairs, Trade and Immigration, playing a lead role in preparations for the 2026 Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting.
Economic and sectoral portfolios were also reaffirmed, with Charles Fernandez overseeing Tourism, Civil Aviation, Transportation and Investment, key drivers of foreign exchange earnings, while Anthony Smith assumes responsibility for Agriculture, Land and the Blue Economy, reflecting the administration’s focus on diversification and food security.
Additional appointments include Michael Joseph as Minister for Health, Wellness, Environment and Civil Service Affairs, Rawdon Turner as Minister of Social and Urban Transformation, and Dwayne George as Minister of Sports and Creative Industries, alongside a cadre of junior ministers supporting key ministries.
However, the Prime Minister signalled that a Cabinet reshuffle could occur as early as January 2027, suggesting a phased approach to governance reform as the administration consolidates its fourth-term priorities.
For the opposition UPP, the outcome represents a significant setback. Internal divisions and leadership challenges appear to have undermined electoral performance. Former UPP advisor McChesney Emanuel revealed that internal polling had predicted the party’s defeat.
With a commanding parliamentary majority, the government is now well-positioned to advance its legislative agenda. Attention will shift to delivering on campaign promises, addressing cost-of-living concerns, and sustaining economic growth, while navigating emerging challenges in public utilities, social services, infrastructure and climate resilience in a rapidly evolving geopolitical landscape.
Photo Credit: Office of The Prime Minister Antigua and Barbuda https://www.facebook.com/OPMAntiguaBarbuda
Source: Caribbean Insight – Volume 48, Issue 9
10 April 2026
Jamaica’s tourism sector is regaining momentum following the devastation of Hurricane Melissa, with the reopening of several major hotel properties signalling a decisive phase in the island’s recovery.
Key resorts including Half Moon in Montego Bay and Bahia Principe in Runaway Bay have resumed operations, restoring hundreds of rooms, reviving employment, and reinforcing confidence in the sector’s resilience.
Tourism Minister Edmund Bartlett said the recovery has now surpassed 80% of pre-hurricane levels, driven by the steady return of hotel capacity and visitor arrivals. “Yesterday, we brought back 660 rooms to the inventory, and today we bring back a little over 200… we will be now over 80% in the recovery of arrivals into the country,” said Bartlett at the reopening of the Eclipse property at Half Moon.
Hurricane Melissa, which struck in October 2025 as a Category 5 system, caused an estimated US$12.2bn in damage, more than half of Jamaica’s GDP, and forced widespread hotel closures, particularly along the north coast. In Montego Bay alone, 12 major hotels were shuttered, with some reporting that more than 80% of staff were directly affected.
The reopening of Eclipse at Half Moon marks a significant milestone. The luxury property has restored 57 beachfront rooms, alongside upgraded amenities including an infinity-edge pool, restaurants, and reimagined villas. While only part of the resort has reopened, additional rooms are expected on stream later this year.
Half Moon Managing Director Shernette Crichton underscored the human dimension of the rebuilding effort. “Hurricane Melissa came through Western Jamaica like a thief in broad daylight and took things from us that we never imagined we could lose… But look around today, every team member here is proof that Melissa did not get the last word,” she asserted.
Minister Bartlett stressed that employment restoration remains central to the recovery strategy. “Jobs mean income, and income means the ability to provide for your families… and that is the critical purpose of this recovery,” he said.
Further east in St Ann, the reopening of Bahia Principe Runaway Bay has added 664 rooms back into Jamaica’s accommodation stock and reinstated 800 jobs. The development was hailed as a major boost to both tourism capacity and community livelihoods.
Tourism Director Donovan White noted that the return of both rooms and workers reflects broader momentum across the destination. “The return of these 664 rooms and 800 team members represents the kind of momentum we have been building across the destination,” he said. “We are seeing strong and sustained interest in Jamaica from our major markets… Jamaica is open, Jamaica is ready, and we are welcoming the world back with the authentic hospitality that defines us,” proclaimed White.
The recovery has been supported not only by hotel reopenings but also by expanded air connectivity. Increased flights from Latin America, Europe, and traditional North American markets have strengthened visitor inflows, with new routes from Colombia and enhanced service from the UK contributing to demand growth. Officials report that over 70,000 visitors arrived in the first week of the winter season alone, with projections indicating that arrivals could reach 95 to 98% of pre-storm levels by the end of 2026.
The interplay between airlift and accommodation capacity has become a central pillar of the recovery strategy. As Bartlett noted, “The whole purpose of our being and building tourism is driven by air connectivity… We’re bringing the airlines here so that when more rooms come on, more airlines are going to be interested in coming.”
Tourism remains a cornerstone of Jamaica’s economy, contributing roughly 30% of GDP and employing about one-fifth of the workforce. The sector also underpins a wide network of linked industries, including agriculture, transportation, and entertainment.
Other major hotel chains, including Sandals Resorts International, RIU Hotels & Resorts, Moon Palace Resorts, and Jamaica Inn, have already resumed operations, further accelerating the recovery trajectory. Additional reopenings are planned later in 2026, with at least one major property expected to add hundreds more rooms and jobs.
Bartlett framed the broader recovery in national terms. “When tourism thrives, Jamaica thrives. When hotels like this one reopen, families eat. Communities prosper. The entire nation moves forward.”
While challenges remain, particularly in achieving full capacity restoration and strengthening climate resilience, the reopening of flagship properties signals that Jamaica’s tourism industry is firmly on a path to recovery.
Photo Credit: Half Moon Resort – https://www.halfmoon.com/
Source: Caribbean Insight – Volume 48, Issue 7
Friday 27 March 2026
Trinidad and Tobago is positioning for a significant rebound in natural gas production by 2027, as a wave of upstream projects led by global energy majors bp and Shell moves toward completion, signalling a potential turning point after years of declining output.
According to company reports and government statements, several major developments—including bp’s Ginger and Mento projects and Shell’s Manatee and Aphrodite fields—are expected to deliver first gas within the same window, boosting supply, export capacity and fiscal revenues.
bp confirmed the scale of its upcoming contributions in a statement. “Ginger will be our fourth subsea project in the country and will be tied back to our existing Mahogany B platform. First gas from the project is expected in 2027… At peak, the development is expected to have the capacity to produce average gas production of 62,000 barrels of oil equivalent per day (boe/d).”
The company also highlighted additional near-term output gains from its infill drilling programme, with the infill programme “expected to deliver around 19mmboe, with the first gas expected in 2027.”
Shell, meanwhile, underscored the strategic importance of its parallel investments. “Aphrodite, together with Manatee, will help sustain Trinidad and Tobago’s gas industry into 2030,” the company said, adding that both projects are expected to come onstream in 2027. At peak, Aphrodite is projected to produce about 18,400 boe/d, while Manatee could reach 104,000 boe/d.
These developments are expected to stabilise a sector that has faced persistent declines in recent years. bp reported that its net natural gas production in Trinidad and Tobago fell from 1,191 in 2023 to 1,045 in 2025, reflecting ongoing challenges in mature fields and underinvestment in new capacity.
Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar has framed the upcoming surge as evidence of renewed momentum in the energy sector. “Good news! Strong signs of growth ahead for Trinidad and Tobago’s energy sector,” she said, adding that her “Government has been working diligently on strengthening energy security since entering office, and we are seeing tangible results from that focus.”
She further emphasised the broader macroeconomic implications, arguing that “after years of decline, this signals increased gas output, greater energy stability, and more revenue and economic activity.”
However, the anticipated recovery has also become a point of political contention. Former Energy Minister and Prime Minister Stuart Young has argued that the projects underpinning the expected surge were largely initiated under the previous administration.
“There is not a single new initiative that Energy Minister Dr Roodal Moonilal has conceptualised or is responsible for that has led to any increased oil or gas production since May 2025,” Young stated, pointing to developments such as Manatee, Aphrodite, Ginger and Mento as legacy projects.
“The reports of Shell and BP’s expected increased gas production in 2027 are all the work done by the PNM government… all our work,” he further asserted.
Beyond political debate, industry data suggests that the current pipeline of projects is critical for revitalising the wider energy services sector. A recent survey by the Energy Chamber found that 60% of firms reported below-normal business activity in early 2026, reflecting reduced upstream investment and fewer high-value projects.
The report noted that while maintenance-based “brownfield” activity has dominated in recent years, major greenfield developments such as Manatee, Aphrodite, Ginger and the Coconut project are expected to provide much-needed stimulus as they move through construction and into production.
The Energy Chamber also highlighted that “the execution of these major projects is proceeding as planned,” reinforcing confidence that the 2027 timeline remains achievable.
In parallel, government initiatives such as the proposed Energy Accelerator Hub aim to streamline approvals and bring projects onstream more quickly, potentially improving investment flows and local content participation.
Global market dynamics are also providing support. Energy Minister Roodal Moonilal noted that higher oil prices, driven by geopolitical tensions, have already boosted revenues. “Today Brent oil prices are at US$92… that means our revenue position just increased by US$4mn per month,” he noted.
Looking ahead, the convergence of multiple large-scale gas projects in 2027 represents a rare synchronised expansion of Trinidad and Tobago’s upstream sector. If delivered on schedule, this surge could restore production levels, strengthen LNG exports and reinforce the country’s role as a key energy supplier in the Atlantic Basin.
At the same time, the sustainability of this recovery will depend on continued investment, efficient project execution and the ability to navigate both domestic political dynamics and an increasingly complex global energy landscape.
Source: Caribbean Insight – Volume 48, Issue 6
Friday 13 March 2026
Three Caribbean leaders were among a select group invited to the inaugural Shield of the Americas Summit hosted by US President Donald Trump in Doral, Florida, an event that has sparked both support and controversy across the region.
The gathering brought together leaders from 12 Latin American and Caribbean nations to discuss regional security cooperation, migration pressures and strategies to dismantle drug cartels operating across the hemisphere.
Guyana’s President Mohamed Irfaan Ali, Trinidad and Tobago’s Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar, and Dominican Republic President Luis Abinader were the only Caribbean heads of government invited to attend.
According to White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt, the summit was designed to strengthen collaboration among regional governments confronting similar challenges.
The summit culminated in the signing of the Doral Charter, which established a new security framework known as the Americas Counter-Cartel Coalition (ACCC). The coalition aims to coordinate military, intelligence and law-enforcement efforts among participating nations to combat drug cartels and transnational criminal networks.
During his address to leaders, President Trump framed the initiative as a decisive response to growing criminal activity across the hemisphere. “Every leader here today is united in the conviction that we cannot and will not tolerate the lawlessness in our hemisphere any longer,” Trump said.
He also urged regional governments to adopt stronger security measures against cartels. “The only way to defeat these enemies is by unleashing the power, our militaries, we have to use our military. You have to use your military,” declared Trump.
The US President further emphasised the coalition’s aggressive stance against organised crime. “The heart of our agreement is a commitment to using lethal military force to destroy the sinister cartels and terrorist networks once and for all,” Trump said during the signing ceremony.
Trinidad and Tobago and Guyana formally joined the new coalition during the summit. The move marks a significant shift in regional security cooperation, placing these Caribbean nations more directly within a US-led security architecture.
Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar defended the decision to participate in the coalition, describing it as a strategic move to address rising crime across the Caribbean. Speaking to members of the Trinidadian diaspora in Florida after the summit, she said joining the coalition would be “in the very best interest of the entire CARICOM, the whole region.” She also praised the US president’s leadership. “We had the distinct honour to really meet with President Trump. He’s a very brave man. He’s a very courageous man because he’s doing what needs to be done, not only for USA but for the world,” she said.
Guyana’s President Irfaan Ali strongly endorsed the initiative, citing the long-standing impact of drug trafficking on Caribbean development. “We agree totally with President Trump. The region itself has made many public comments in relation to drug cartels operating and using our airspace, using our exclusive economic zone,” said Ali in an interview during the summit.
He argued that criminal networks have undermined regional stability and economic progress. “This is not something that was there yesterday. We have always complained about this, and President Trump has taken a direct approach on this issue,” said Ali.
The Dominican Republic emerged as a key partner within the initiative. President Luis Abinader signed the Charter of Doral, positioning his country as a strategic security partner within the new alliance. Abinader said that it would strengthen existing regional security collaboration. “We already maintain a very special role in security matters with intense cooperation; through this programme, that collaboration will become even greater,” he stressed.
Beyond security, Guyana used the summit to advance its growing energy partnership with the US. Ahead of his meeting with President Trump, President Ali held talks with US Energy Secretary Chris Wright to discuss collaboration aimed at strengthening hemispheric energy security. Secretary Wright underscored Guyana’s strategic importance to Washington’s energy agenda. “This is our backyard. We want strong partners, strong nations and strong energy production. Guyana is a huge part of this strategy.”
Despite the participation of several regional governments, the summit has drawn criticism from some analysts and policymakers. Major regional powers such as Brazil, Mexico and Colombia were absent, raising questions about the coalition’s broader legitimacy and geopolitical implications. Still, the participation of Guyana, Trinidad and Tobago and the Dominican Republic highlights the Caribbean’s growing strategic importance in hemispheric security and energy discussions.
Source: Caribbean Insight – Volume 48, Issue 5
Friday 27 February 2026
Prime Minister Mia Mottley has unveiled a reconfigured Cabinet days after her Barbados Labour Party (BLP) secured a landslide election victory, taking all 30 parliamentary seats.
Ministers and some senators were sworn in at CARIFESTA House, before the country’s recently installed second President, Jeffrey Bostic, marking the start of the administration’s third consecutive term in office.
At the swearing in of the new government, Mottley attempted to pre-empt criticism; asserting that her team is designed for delivery, accountability and performance in a changing domestic and global environment.
Among the most closely watched appointments is the return of former Democratic Labour Party (DLP) heavyweight Chris Sinckler, whom Mottley has until recently heavily criticised as being one of the architects of Barbados’ “lost decade”.
Sinckler joins the government as a senator and senior minister of foreign affairs and foreign trade. Fellow former DLP minister Michael Lashley also re-enters Cabinet as minister of legal affairs and criminal justice. Their inclusion has fuelled fierce debate among BLP faithful, but underscores Mottley’s willingness to draw talent across party lines.
Defending the expanded and reshaped Cabinet, Mottley said the configuration was intentional and execution-focused. “The Cabinet that is being sworn in today is not just a list of names. It is a structure that has been deliberately balanced, carefully chosen and repurposed to face the current realities of our moment today with strategic focus,” she told the swearing-in ceremony.
Key portfolios were elevated to reflect that priority. Mottley linked a new investment portfolio to economic resilience. “If you ask me why we have a dedicated minister for investment, public and private, it is because our tax base, while our tax collection is doing well, our tax base remains tenuous, and our progress depends on our ability to continue to drive investment, local and foreign investment,” she argued.
The Cabinet retains Santia Bradshaw as Deputy Prime Minister, now Minister of Environment, National Beautification and Fisheries, and leader of government business in the House of Assembly. Kerrie Symmonds takes Energy, Business Development and Commerce as senior minister coordinating the productive sector, while Kirk Humphrey is promoted to Transport and Works and senior minister coordinating infrastructure. Ian Gooding-Edghill and Chad Blackman return as Minister of Tourism and International Transport and Education, respectively.
Ryan Straughn is elevated to full Finance Minister replacing Prime Minister Mottley, Kay McConney assumes public service and talent development, and Lisa Cummins is appointed Minister of Health and Wellness and leader of government business in the Senate.
Mottley acknowledged public frustration with state services, arguing that citizens judge government by lived experience rather than policy documents. “One of the biggest frustrations is often not policy in the governance of this country. It is about the pace of execution,” she said, adding that people care about “whether the bus is coming on time or not… whether the lights stay on, whether their water is running and clear and not brown.”
Noted Caribbean political scientist Peter Wickham described the Cabinet as a sign of political maturity. “I think the big surprise to a lot of people was both Chris and Lashley’s inclusion,” he said, while noting that Sinckler’s foreign affairs experience could prove valuable. On Cabinet size, Wickham observed that it “is actually the smallest Cabinet that she has had,” suggesting consolidation and confidence in leadership.
Beyond Cabinet formation, President Bostic also moved to appoint Senate seats amid the absence of a parliamentary opposition, appointing Ryan Walters and Karina Goodridge as opposition senators after what he described as extensive deliberation.
A further point of contention surrounding the Senate appointments was the DLP’s decision to submit only two names, despite President Bostic formally requesting four nominations. Under normal circumstances, the opposition leader advises the President on Senate appointments. However, since the governing party holds all House of Assembly seats, there was no opposition leader to exercise that role.
The new administration moved quickly to set its legislative agenda, tabling several bills aimed at governance reform and institutional strengthening. Chief among them was a Constitution (Amendment) Bill on party defections, introduced by Prime Minister Mottley, which would require Members of Parliament elected on a party ticket to vacate their seats if they formally change political allegiance.
With ministers sworn in, legislative priorities progressing, and economic reforms promised, the new government has signalled that its third term will focus less on stabilisation and more on performance, productivity and execution across the state.
Photo Credit: https://www.gov.bb/Government/prime-minister
Source: Caribbean Insight – Volume 48, Issue 4