The year 2020 can certainly be described as a year of ambiguity and change. Caribbean Export shared a wealth of content and resources to support firms severely impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic via our Talking Exports webinar series and our blog. As we approach the end of 2020, we thought we’d revisit some of the most popular blog posts many of which addressed how firms pivoted, adapted and grew during these challenging times.

Au cas où vous auriez manqué l’un d’entre eux, les cinq principaux articles publiés sur notre blog cette année sont les suivants:

1. Covid-19 Reinforces the Need for Business Owners to Diversify

Jacqueline Cort-Thomas, propriétaire du Villas at Sunset Lane, un hôtel de charme de 10 chambres à Antigua, a expliqué comment la pandémie l’a poussée à se tourner vers le secteur manufacturier.

2. Chem Clean Tackles Safety & Increases Exports During COVID-19

La pandémie de COVID-19 a entraîné une augmentation de 10 à 15 % des exportations du fabricant trinidadien Chem Clean. L’entreprise, qui a bénéficié d’une subvention d’aide directe en 2013, l’a utilisée pour soutenir la modernisation de son usine et augmenter sa capacité. Mme Zamore a reconnu que la décision stratégique prise pour moderniser l’installation et augmenter la capacité de production portait encore ses fruits aujourd’hui.

3. What You Need To Know About Rum

For those who need to brush up on their rum knowledge here’s a list of eight (8) fun things, you need to know about rum.

4. Uncovering Opportunities Created by a Pandemic

Plusieurs entreprises des Caraïbes se sont repositionnées pour accéder aux opportunités qui se sont présentées en raison du changement des comportements et des besoins des consommateurs dû à la pandémie. Voici différentes stratégies que votre entreprise peut utiliser pour identifier votre opportunité.

5. Koru Green taking Freetown Collective Music to the World

Dirigée par le directeur général Keron Niles, Koru Green Ltd s’est démarquée des autres entreprises de talents en développant un service unique au sein du secteur créatif, principalement axé sur la transformation des biens et services culturels en moyens de subsistance durables.

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A sure fire way to distinguish between locals and foreigners at a Caribbean dinner table is to listen out for the request for pepper sauce, a hot and tangy flavouring that is typically made of the indigenous Scotch Bonnet, otherwise known as Scotty Bon, Scotchy, Bonney Pepper or scientifically, Capsicum Chinense.

The Scotch Bonnet is the main commercial variety of pepper in the region, having achieved this status through a process of repeated selection based on aroma, pungency, flavour, yield, and disease and pest tolerance.

Originally cultivated by the Taino Indians, the distinctly Caribbean flavour of the fiery hot condiment is used to make a variety of value added products such as hot pepper sauce, jerk seasoning, pepper mash, dried pepper, scotch bonnet chocolate truffles, pepper powder, hot ketchup, pepper infused peanut butter, pepper jams and jellies, salsas and pickles.

With a heat rating of 100,000-350,000 scoville units, the scotch bonnet can be up to 40 times hotter than a typical jalapeño pepper.

High levels of capsaicin, vitamin C, vitamin A, vitamin K, most B vitamins (particularly vitamin B6), iron, copper, magnesium and potassium provide a number of benefits including heart health, weight loss, and congestion relief.

Scotch Bonnet Peppers are the back roads that lead to the same destination, says Chef Peter Ivey of The Reggae Chefs, of the tear-inducing Caribbean flavour. They are the roads that your parents told you not to walk down alone at night until you were all grown up.

The Scotch Bonnet pepper can be dangerously deceptive, as its distinct aroma can lull you into lowering your guard, Ivey continues. Its prowess in deception lies in its ability to either tinge your tongue with sweetness or take traditional Caribbean flavours to heights matched only by the peaks in cock pit country, Jamaica where they are abundantly grown.

Traditional curry goat and thick Caribbean soups are elevated with the Scotchie’s presence, and rice and peas is just rice and some peas without the tail of a scotch bonnet pepper peeking out from under a few rice grains. Escoveitch fish would be relegated to simply fried fish without the Scotch Bonnet’s tangy flavour and no self-respecting Caribbean person wants a jerk sauce made without a bright yellow, orange or red Scotch Bonnet flag, indicating that appropriate caution must be taken.

It is no wonder that Scotch Bonnet has become one of the biggest trends in international food, claiming the hot spot of the first trend listed by The Happy Foodie in its 10 food trends to look out for in 2020, a mention on the list of Uren Food Ingredients 2021 Global Food Trends and a hyper-regional food trend on New Zealand’s Par Avion Top 25 Food Trends for 2020.

Jamaica is the biggest player in the regional market, with top agro-processors including Grace, Walkerswood, Spur Tree Spices and Jamaica’s leading pepper sauce producer, Gray’s Pepper Products Limited, with approximately 60 per cent of its products destined for the export market.

Popular brands in the region include Gray’s hot sauce out of Jamaica, Baron’s Blazing hot sauce which is manufactured in St. Lucia and Grenada, Matouk’s hot pepper sauce of Trinidad & Tobago, Windmill Products Hot Pepper Sauce from Barbados and FIYAH sauces by Tomfoodery Kitchen & Bar in the Cayman Islands.

Scotch Bonnet is in such high demand by both the Caribbean domestic and export markets that, at a 2018 meeting of the Jamaica Agro processors Association (JAPA), members complained of a lack of the famous pepper as a raw material for sauces. The supply at the time could only meet about 55 per cent of the demand for sauce production.

Jamaican export sales of the incendiary condiment are reflective of the growing demand. Exports of hot pepper sauce totalled $4,453,019 in 2019. Between 2013 and 2017, the export of fresh hot peppers increased by 713 per cent and 302 per cent for semi-value added. (JAMPRO)

Of all the value added products created from the pungent pepper, none are more popular than traditional Caribbean sauces and condiments, including the famous hot sauce or as it is known in the region, pepper sauce.

According to regional trade and investment promotion agency, Caribbean Export, the market for Caribbean sauces and condiments is worth $1.49 billion, having grown in value by 16.8 percent between 2019 and 2020.

Globally, the hot sauce market is projected to reach $ 5.9 billion by 2025, with a compound annual growth rate of 5.2 per cent (2020-2025). (Imarc group)

Jamaica Promotions Corporation (JAMPRO), a promotional agency for export and investment in Jamaica’s local and international private sector, is currently in dialogue with investors who are interested in growing the hot peppers on a large-scale on-island. It is also working with other government agencies through a Pepper Value Chain Task Force (managed by the Bureau of Standards Jamaica) to identify goods made from the Scotch Bonnet pepper and a strategy to facilitate the production of these goods.

With more investments into the sector, Jamaica will be able to meet the large demand that exists for the peppers in their natural state, as well as pepper mash which can be used to make sauces, seasonings and other products, says Diane Edwards, President of JAMPRO.

The next step for Jamaica is to create more value-added products from Scotch Bonnet peppers. This will not only have a positive impact on the economy by increasing export sales and creating jobs, but it will also diversify our exports in the agribusiness sector.

This article which was originally published by Forbes was submitted by Daphne Ewing-Chow, Forbes Senior Contributor, Food & Drink.

Shasha Designs is a ready to wear brand with stunning collections suitable for day and night. The award-winning brand, which was established in 2009 by owner and Creative Director Keisha Edwards, also specialises in unconventional wedding gowns.

Inspired by a blend of Guyanese and Caribbean culture, Shasha Designs is the home of luxe collections to complement the female silhouette.

Since launching her career in fashion, Keisha has been able to turn her passion into a successful business that has won several awards and attracted international attention.

In 2016, Shasha Designs received the Award for Excellence and Fashion Innovation from the Caribbean, Style and Culture Committee which celebrates regional designers, models, photographers and makeup artists for their contribution to the arts industry.

On the international stage, Shasha Designs has showcased its collections within the Caribbean region, the United States and the UK. Keisha counts one of her international experiences as a highlight within her career, when she was selected as a featured Caribbean designer for an inaugural fashion event in London.

“I participated in the first ever Commonwealth Fashion Exchange programme, which saw designers and artisans from 52 commonwealth countries producing a fashion ‘look’ using principles of sustainable excellence. The design was unveiled at a special reception at Buckingham Palace for London Fashion Week on February 19, 2018. Being able to represent my country and stand among extremely talented designers throughout the region and internationally was quite an amazing and humbling experience.”

Keisha’s opportunities to travel and interact with other Caribbean designers has also exposed her to the region’s valuable contribution to the industry on a global scale.

“The Caribbean fashion Industry is growing and developing at a steady pace. I believe that designers both in the Anglo, Dutch, Spanish and French speaking Caribbean have done such amazing, recognizable work. That has allowed for the emergence of Fashion Schools, Fashion Weeks, Trade shows, Caribbean Export workshops, panel discussion etc. All geared towards nurturing talent, promoting Caribbean designers, networking and most importantly fostering regional integration.”

The growth of the regional industry has revealed the demand for brands such as Shasha Designs. However, in addition to her goals of expanding her own brand’s presence, Keisha’s selection as a member of the Guyana Fashion Council is a clear indication that she is fully invested in developing the fashion industry in Guyana and by extension the Caribbean. Her influence in this role is sure to make a positive impact on the regional fashion industry outside of her brand and position her as an invaluable leader in the Caribbean fashion industry.

Connect with Shasha Designs:

www.shashadesigns.com

IG: @shashadesigns

Facebook: @shashadesignsGuyana

The Organization of African, Caribbean and Pacific States (OACPS), formerly the African, Caribbean and Pacific (ACP) Group of States, and the European Union (EU) on Thursday, December 3 concluded negotiations for the post-Cotonou agreement. The text of this new agreement was approved at a virtual meeting of the lead negotiators, EU Commissioner for International Partnerships, Jutta Urpilainen, and the ACP’s Professor Robert Dussey, the minister of foreign affairs of Togo.

This new agreement will provide the legal framework governing the political, economic and development cooperation between the OACPS and the EU for the next 20 years. As I pointed out in my previous articles, specifically that of November 18, 2020, this agreement has an overarching foundation section and separate regional protocols with Africa, the Caribbean, and the Pacific. The negotiations commenced in September 2018 and continued for longer than was scheduled requiring the extension of the 2000 ACP/EU Cotonou Partnership Agreement (CPA) to December 2020.

The aim of this new agreement is to transform the relationship between the OACPS and EU from one of donor/recipient to a more advanced partnership which will enable cooperation to address issues of common interest, such as health and economic (COVID-19) and climate change, in organisations, such as the United Nations. The parties want to achieve a “partnership of equals”, a concept which some of us still view with a degree of scepticism.

This does not, however, mean that the EU will not continue to be an important source of development support. It remains committed to providing this. We need to recall that the EU has been, and will no doubt continue to be, a principal source of donor funding to the Caribbean. Note that EU donor funding at the regional and national levels, including to Jamaica, flows from the CPA and its successor agreement.

The conclusion of the negotiations was met with optimism as Commissioner Urpilainen stated that: “Today’s deal marks a step towards a new era for the EU, Africa, the Caribbean and the Pacific. People in all those four regions of the world will benefit from this ambitious agreement that will allow us to better deal with the new realities and challenges as global actors.”

Professor Dussey said that: “The political agreement, reached today, at the end of these long and intense negotiations, paves the way for a modern and more committed partnership at the national, regional and international levels. On this occasion, I extend my sincere congratulations to our lead negotiators who have worked tirelessly to achieve this result.”

At the start, the Caribbean’s representatives on the OACPS Central Negotiating Committee were then Minister of Foreign Affairs of Guyana Carl Greendige, who was the Caribbean’s lead negotiator, and Senator the Hon Kamina Johnson Smith, minister of foreign affairs and foreign trade of Jamaica. At the December 3 meeting, Guyana was represented by current Minister of Foreign Affairs the Hon Hugh Todd, and Minister Johnson Smith, who spoke on behalf of the region.

In her remarks, the minister commended the tireless efforts of all the negotiators and the flexibility and understanding shown. Once signed, she called for the agreement’s swift and effective implementation in a manner which will take the OACPS/EU relationship to new and higher levels enabling the Caribbean/EU partnership to realise its full potential, advancing Caribbean sustainable development, and sustaining intra-OACPS cooperation.

JOINT PARLIAMENTARY ASSEMBLY

All was not smooth sailing with the conclusion of the negotiations, as a signal was sent from the EU Parliament, supported by OACPS parliamentarians, that it would not approve the new agreement if there wasn’t a more substantial role for the OACPS/EU Joint Parliamentary Assembly, including at the regional level. The agreement must have a strengthened parliamentary dimension facilitating more effective parliamentary scrutiny. The lead negotiators agreed that the parliamentary provisions would be reviewed. This will be done, I am informed, during this week.

THE OACPS CARIBBEAN FORUM (CARIFORUM)

This new agreement, with a separate Caribbean protocol, in my view, will see an expanded role for CARIFORUM. The CARIFORUM Directorate, now located in the CARICOM Secretariat, may need to be strengthened.

CARIFORUM/EU EPA

It must be clearly understood that this post-Cotonou agreement is not a trade agreement. Trade between the EU and CARIFORUM is covered by the regional CARIFORUM/EU Economic Partnership Agreement (EPA) which was signed in 2008 and is now in its 12th year. Preparations have been in progress for its second 5-year review, which will now be held in 2021.

The EPA and the post-Cotonou agreement must be considered together as both govern the Caribbean’s relationship with the EU.

NEXT STEPS

The text of the new agreement will have to be further reviewed by a team of lawyers from both sides, a process known as a legal scrub. The agreement, thereafter, will be initialled by the lead negotiators. Then it will have to be approved for signature in all the 79 member states of the OACPS and 27 of the EU and be subject to the EU’s various regional procedures. When these internal measures are concluded, the agreement will be signed, hopefully, at a ceremony in Samoa in 2021, COVID-19 permitting. Due to the time required to conclude the internal procedures, the existing CPA will be further extended to November 2021.

EU – A RELIABLE DEVELOPMENT PARTNER

In the Caribbean, we need to understand and acknowledge that the EU has been a significant and reliable development partner since 1975 and that this new successor agreement should indeed be considered a landmark arrangement. This relationship is treaty based and thus legally binding. It is unique in international relationships. Its implementation requires the involvement of not only the public sector, but also civil society, including the media, academia, private sector, and other non-governmental organisations. The media has a role to play in building public awareness.

The history of this relationship has been long and, with some members, quite chequered, but let us not take this relationship for granted or demonstrate indifference to its benefits as we move into a new era of cooperation.

This article which was originally published by the Jamaica Gleaner was submitted by Elizabeth Morgan, Specialist in International Trade Policy and International Politics.

The House of Pearson is the award-winning fashion house created by Quinton Pearson.

Based in Guyana, the House of Pearson is an impressive portfolio of collections by Quinton in couture, bridal wear, swimwear, resort wear and men’s wear.

From a young age, Quinton had a passion for sketching clothes and went on to study the art of fashion after high school. The talented designer still enjoys learning new skills and expanding his knowledge within his craft and the business of fashion.

Whilst he believes his personal style preference is simple with a natural clean look which includes items that are light and simple, Quinton’s designs for House of Pearson display the depth of his creativity and attention to detail within each piece.

With such a varied collection, Quinton credits his exposure to diverse environments and communities for the creativity that goes into his designs.

I gain inspiration from my travelling experiences, discovering various cultures and communicating with new people.

Quinton’s opportunities to connect with new places and people have also led him to witness other talented contributors to the industry.

Caribbean fashion is full of life, vibrancy and expression, in the six plus years I’ve been running my brand, I’ve seen so much growth and contribution by all the talented designers around the Caribbean and that is so commendable. I believe the industry is constantly growing and designers have been paving the way for their work to be supported internationally.

At the beginning of 2020, Quinton hosted his first House of Pearson couture runway show, which he counts as a landmark achievement in his career. During this time he was able to work with other local creatives in the art industry to make his dream a successful reality.

As a designer in the Caribbean, Quinton is aware that international exposure is important for those in the region who plan to expand their brand presence. His goal for global success with his House of Pearson brand is combined with greater philanthropic efforts to give back to his local community.

In five years, I see myself showcasing my creations on all the major runways in the world, styling celebrities, and making big charitable contributions to the youths of my community.

Quinton’s achievements so far have proven that House of Pearson is a valuable addition to the Caribbean fashion industry, having caught the attention of local and regional stakeholders, along with a growing clientele.

His ability to create designs for various occasions, such as couture, casual wear and formal wear, opens up even more opportunities for the House of Pearson to become a reputable name in fashion.

Connect with House of Pearson on social media:

Facebook: House of Pearson

Instagram: @house.of.pearson

From a long-proposed Caribbean Business Council (CBC) and a waning Caribbean Association of Industry and Commerce (CAIC), the Caribbean Community (CARICOM) now has three new private sector organisations – the Network of Caribbean Chambers of Commerce (CARICHAM), the CARICOM Private Sector Organisation (CPSO), and the recently announced CARICOM Manufacturers’ Association (CMA). Does this herald a strengthening of private sector engagement in trade and economic matters within the region? Is this a goal achieved?

I first addressed the role of the Caribbean private sector in regional and international trade in my article in February 2019 when we were looking at the protracted establishment of the CBC. The special meeting of CARICOM Heads of Government in Trinidad and Tobago in December 2018 confirmed that implementation of the CARICOM Single Market and Economy (CSME) required deeper involvement of the regional private sector.

I concluded then that Prime Minister Mia Mottley of Barbados and her fellow CARICOM prime ministers and trade ministers had to actively encourage private-public sector dialogue at the national and regional levels. In addition, the private sector organisations in the region needed to be more actively involved in positioning themselves to become effective partners with government and in contributing to shaping the national and regional trade agendas and achieving sustained growth and development.

CARICHAM

In April 2019, the Network of Caribbean Chambers of Commerce was established. I welcomed this in my article of April 24, 2019. I see that CARICHAM (motto – growth through collaboration) now represents over 90,000 businesses from 21 chambers of commerce in 14 CARICOM member states, as well as in the British Virgin Islands, Cuba, the Dominican Republic, Guadeloupe, Martinique, and Saint Martin. Its work centres on disaster risk reduction/mitigation, promoting trade, improving advocacy and membership value, and sharing knowledge/best practices. The current chair is Dr Thackwray ‘Dax’ Driver, president and chief executive officer of the Energy Chamber in Trinidad and Tobago.

CPSO

As chair of the Prime Ministerial Subcommittee on the CSME, Prime Minister Mottley championed forming the CPSO. In accordance with Article 22 of the Revised Treaty of Chaguaramas, the intent was to designate the CPSO and the Caribbean Congress of Labour associate institutions of CARICOM, meaning they will have a functional relationship and contribute to meeting regional objectives. At the 40th Session of the Conference of CARICOM Heads of Government in July 2019, it was reported that progress was being made in establishing this organisation which should be functioning by the end of 2019. I wrote about this in my article of November 13, 2019.

The update given at the Intersessional Meeting of CARICOM Heads held in Barbados in February 2020 was that the CPSO had been formed as a non-profit organisation located in Barbados. At this meeting, the CPSO’s representative presented a draft report on increasing regional production and addressing food security. The Government of Trinidad and Tobago had pledged to provide technical assistance to complete this report.

Since then, information in the public domain about the CPSO has been sparse. From my inquiries, I am informed that its chair is Mr E. Gervase Warner, president and CEO of the Trinidad and Tobago-based Massy Group. The organisation has four principal organs, the general membership of regional private sector enterprises, the council, the executive committee of the council, and a technical secretariat. It seems that the CPSO is to be the principal private sector organisation and is to contribute to the full implementation of the CSME within five years. It is not clear at this point what its actual membership is. It is my suspicion that the organisation remains a work in progress.

At the 41st Session of the Conference of Heads held on October 29, the communiqué informs that heads designated the CPSO an associate institution of CARICOM. They also agreed to the signing of a memorandum of understanding (MOU) between the Community and the CPSO Inc to cooperate in furthering CSME implementation. I understand that this MOU will be signed on Thursday, December 3. Media reports indicate that an MOU was signed on November 16 with the Government of Barbados and it seems this concerned the offices of the CPSO.

I assume that the CPSO was represented at the 51st regular session of the CARICOM Council for Trade and Economic Development (COTED) held virtually November 26-27. I hope that it will be fully established early in 2021 with an interactive presence on the Internet and will be able to state its membership which should be a current priority.

CMA

On November 27, there was a surprising announcement that manufacturing associations from six CARICOM member states – Barbados, Dominica, Guyana, Jamaica, St Lucia, and Trinidad and Tobago – had formed the CARICOM CMA. The Barbados association currently holds the chairmanship. This association will enable regional manufacturers to coordinate positions and to cooperate to benefit from the CSME.

WIDER COORDINATION

Although the CPSO has the status of an associate institution, I am assuming that, as in the past, all the regional private sector organisations will be represented at COTED meetings. CARICHAM and CMA should now join the already existing Caribbean Poultry Association, the Sugar Association of the Caribbean, and the West Indies Rum and Spirits Producers Association. The services firms are represented by the Caribbean Network of Service Coalitions.

I would expect that all these regional private sector bodies will now need to be associated with the CPSO, which should be in a position to effectively consult with and coordinate their positions if the regional private sector is to have a unified position. The CPSO, in my view, as the premier regional body, also cannot only confine itself strictly to CSME issues, but must be able to represent the region in bilateral, plurilateral and multilateral trade and economic deliberations where private sector representation is required.

Although I continue to have questions about the CPSO as constructed and about private sector fragmentation, I am welcoming the establishment of the CPSO, CARICHAM and CMA. I wish them success in their organisation, management and coordination. I want to see the regional private sector actively engaged in CARICOM’s economic recovery and transformation in this time of COVID-19.

This article which was originally published by the Jamaica Gleaner was submitted by Elizabeth Morgan, Specialist in International Trade Policy and International Politics.

G20 Summit Declaration: We remain determined to support all developing and least developed countries as they face the intertwined health, economic, and social effects of COVID-19, recognising the specific challenges in Africa and small-island developing states.

Many of us remain fascinated by the ongoing crisis of democracy and governance which is taking place in the USA as COVID-19 is increasing there unchecked. President-elect Joe Biden has named his nominee for secretary of state, Anthony Blinken, a seasoned diplomat who previously served as deputy secretary of state under President Barack Obama.

The situation in the United Kingdom (UK) and the European Union (EU) is also of concern, as increasing COVID-19 cases have led to the tightening of restrictions. Canada, too, is experiencing increased cases. As I have pointed out before, this is all of importance to us in the Caribbean, as our economic recovery is linked to actions taken in these countries to address COVID-19 and their economic recovery.

The G20 Summit chaired by Saudi Arabia and held virtually, November 21-22, was watched with interest, and many things in the Summit Declaration sound optimistic, with emphasis on cooperation to address the intertwined health, economic and social effects of the virus.

Reading some international newspaper headlines, my interpretation is that although G20 leaders were committing to unite in addressing the pandemic and its economic impact, in reality real progress was limited, and gaps remained among the countries. The hope from this meeting is the commitment to cooperate and to address the specific challenges facing the least developed countries and small island economies.

The CARICOM countries, mainly small island economies, many dependent on tourism, are looking at a bleak Christmas and new year period. The economic woes in some countries are compounded by flooding from an unusually active hurricane season which has brought a very wet September into November, undermining infrastructure and agriculture. This while some countries are still recovering from previous hurricanes.

CARICOM HEADS’ MEETING

CARICOM Heads of Government held their 41st Regular Meeting virtually on October 29 and chaired by Dr the Hon Ralph Gonsalves, prime minister of St Vincent and Grenadines. Their focus was on COVID-19, its impact on the region and on its economic recovery and transformation. Reviewing the health situation, the heads recognised that reopening and recovery require a careful balance between reducing restrictive measures and ensuring adequate actions to reduce the virus’ spread. Of course, in some countries, such as Jamaica, community spread has been experienced.

The heads also acknowledged that COVID-19 had exacerbated the development challenges, including high deficits and debt already confronting the region, and agreed to the idea of a Caribbean Economic Recovery and Transformation Plan under the leadership of the prime minister of Barbados. The use of a Universal Vulnerability Index to determine eligibility for development assistance was also urged. It seems that this index needs to be fine-tuned and vigorously marketed.

In addition, the heads also agreed to prepare a joint tourism policy and, in this regard, they established a Prime Ministerial Subcommittee on Tourism to provide oversight for its preparation by December 31.

51ST COTED MEETING

Reflecting on the outcome of the Intersessional Heads’ Meeting in February, I assume that these proposals have taken account of work which was already in progress in CARICOM, prior to the pandemic, to strengthen the region’s economies, and work in progress also to implement the UN Sustainable Development Goals (UNSDGs). Given the fragility of the ecosystems in the region, sustainable development is critical in all the productive sectors, including mining and lumber, and in promoting renewable energy alongside oil and natural gas.

This week, November 26-27, the CARICOM Council for Trade and Economic Development (COTED) will meet virtually at the ministerial level under the chairmanship of Guyana’s Foreign Minister, Hon Hugh Todd. At this session, also, ministers will be looking at the region’s response to the economic impact of COVID-19. I assume, picking up on the work mandated by CARICOM heads.

COTED has a critical role to play in the economic recovery and transformation, as it has direct responsibility for the implementation of the CARICOM Single Market and Economy (CSME), for other development and economic issues, and for external trade. As pointed out in previous articles, this includes agriculture and food security; trade in services, including information and communications technology (ICT); trade and environment; energy; and tourism.

In addition, CARICOM must be looking not only at its intra-regional trade, but also at its extra-regional trade. With respect to the latter, from the webinar hosted by the Sir Shridath Ramphal Centre at the UWI, Cave Hill campus on October 9 about whether CARICOM needs a new foreign trade strategy, the panel felt that such a strategy needed to be seriously considered. This should be part of the economic recovery discussions as external trade remains critical to CARICOM’s growth and development.

I want to be assured that the work in CARICOM on the economic recovery and transformation is benefiting from proper collaboration and coordination, and that proposals are being fully developed not only for action within the region, but for active presentation to groups, such as the G20, the G7, to bilateral partners and to global institutions. CARICOM’s economic situation is now so critical that it cannot afford further mistakes and missteps.

This article which was originally published by the Jamaica Gleaner was submitted by Elizabeth Morgan, Specialist in International Trade Policy and International Politics.

Fashion designer and entrepreneur, Elizabeth Francis established Christique Clothing in 1995.

Based in Trinidad and Tobago, Christique Clothing is a bridal and resort wear brand built on sustainability and embodies the passion, vibe and ecology of the Caribbean.

Concerned with the effects of climate change, Elizabeth is focused on promoting change and raising awareness with her brand. Christique Clothing designs are made with natural fibres and produced with almost zero waste. She also likes to encourage her clients to wear ethical clothing and educates them on the benefits of wearing sustainable clothes which has a great benefit of saving the environment.

“I believe climate change is a serious global issue and as a designer, I want to do my part. The fashion industry is one of the biggest polluters and so I want to encourage my clients to choose fabrics that are made from natural fibres and designs that are timeless and multi-purposed.”

As an island citizen who loves nature, art, music and fashion, Elizabeth’s inspiration for her designs are a reflection of the rich culture and environment within the Caribbean. Her 2020 eco-friendly bridal and resort wear collection called “Green Nuptials” was inspired by one of her trips to the rainforest in the beautiful “nature isle” of Dominica.

Over the years, Elizabeth has had the opportunity to meet and connect with other designers within the region. This has given her insight on the potential of the Caribbean fashion industry.

“Caribbean fashion is in great hands. I think we have come a long way from the coco palm and pineapple prints. There’s so much innovation, so much style and we do have our very own aesthetic, but it’s a blend of so many amazing factors.”

For her own brand, Elizabeth plans to continue building her brand locally with a physical retail store location in Trinidad, as well as collaborating with outlets in the Caribbean to retail her brand. She is also focused on developing the brand’s online presence, which will raise awareness of Christique Clothing for international clients planning a destination wedding or holiday in the Caribbean.

On a global scale, customers are becoming more conscious of their own carbon footprint and buying more ethical products. There is a growing awareness of eco-friendly fashion and its benefits on the environment. This places Christique Clothing in prime position to be recognised as a leader in sustainable fashion from the Caribbean.

Fashion Designer and Illustrator Ayanna Dixon is a true creative. Her passion for fashion was established from a young age, with her love of dressing up and attending fashion shows with her mother, who is a textile designer. She admits that her career as a fashion designer was destined.

An alumnus of Edna Manley College of the Visual and Performing Arts and The Art Institute of New York, Ayanna returned home to Jamaica and started her company ASD, whose mission is to empower women with her clothing and illustrated lifestyle products.

Her clothing is designed to be stylish and functional, whilst helping women to feel their best. The theme of her illustrations represent women of different body, hair and skin types and complements her brand’s objective to empower women through diverse representation.

“There is something in my brand for a woman at any stage of life; I have a Career Colouring Book for little girls, illustrated tees for tweens and clothing for women who want something beautiful, [and] empowering that you can wear with ease.”

ASD’s collection has been sold in three of Jamaica’s top boutiques. The brand has also collaborated with local companies such as Cafe Blue Coffee, where her illustrations were featured on limited edition coffee mugs. Ayanna is also working on having her products sold internationally.

Over the years Ayanna has achieved a number of accolades and her collections have been featured at shows in the US and UK which has given her international exposure.

Participating in regional and international fashion events, Ayanna is confident that the industry will continue to grow.

“It’s really inspiring to see all our talent flourishing. Shows like Mission Catwalk, [and] regional events like The Collection MoDa and Carifesta all highlight how much talent we have here. Hopefully through social media and ecommerce the world will be looking to us for not only our beautiful pieces but as a sustainable fashion resource.”

Protecting the environment is woven into Ayanna’s brand objectives and she has focused her charitable efforts on hosting an annual beach clean-up to remove garbage and collect recyclable waste from the local beaches where she enjoys spending her spare time.

Looking to the future, Ayanna plans to have a flagship store and production house located in Downtown, Kingston, as well as distribute her clothing and products internationally. With her clear vision and range of eye-catching illustrated collections, Ayanna and ASD are sure to put Jamaica and Caribbean fashion firmly on the global fashion map.

Social Media: @by.ASD

Shop: www.byasd.net

Indira Weech knew she was onto something great when her bath and body care natural line went from being perfect souvenirs to items in global demand.

But as encouraging as this was, frustration quickly set in for the owner of bahamaSpa, a small business located on the island of Nassau in The Bahamas.

We were offered a contract from a major luxury hotel to supply their spa as well as their retail and gift shop. We were also wholesalers for salons and spas requesting bulk supplies of our products as well as retail businesses selling directly to local customers, and we provided personalized gift services. We did exceptionally well in the tourism sector and due to persistent reorder demands from visitors who left the islands, we were in search of avenues to export our products so we could fill the demand.

Our major frustration coming from a small island was the lack of applicable assistance to help us grow and expand globally. bahamaSpa was in the process of restructuring when we learnt of WE-Xport, a valuable opportunity for export guidance which was exactly what we needed at the time, she recalled.

Indira immediately signed up for WE-Xport, a technical assistance programme offered by the Caribbean Export Development Agency designed to give regional female-owned businesses access to grant funding, training, export and networking opportunities.

From there her knowledge of export grew and things began to move quickly. She participated in workshops, was assigned a business coach and met other regional female entrepreneurs. Admitting entrepreneurship could be a pretty lonely road to travel sometimes, Indira confessed that WE-Xport became a safe space for her to share experiences and discuss challenges.

I had a great business coach who assisted me in research, finding the right route to export and making the right decisions as a small business. I have become more disciplined in record keeping and organization because I knew if we were to expand internationally I needed to improve in this area. I also ask for help and assistance more since being enrolled in the programme. I find it very reassuring to know I can still ask for assistance long after our cohort officially ended.

Asking for help was not something I was accustomed to doing and WE-Xport gave me a sisterhood of like-minded female entrepreneurs whom I could now rely on for sound advice, emotional support, encouragement and gentle kicks in the pants when needed. I am eternally grateful for this network, she pointed out.

However, the most rewarding opportunity that WE-Xport presented for Indira was the chance to participate in trade shows including the 4th CARIFORM-EU Business Forum in Germany. Prior to signing up, she had been working on export packaging for bahamaSpa but accelerated this once she was enrolled in WE-Xport.

The response to the new packaging and to our products at shows in the Caribbean and in Europe was outstanding. Increased demand and growth came particularly through the CARIFORUM exhibition. That show was impeccably organised by the Caribbean Export team. It showcased some of the most exquisite brands from the Caribbean. I was very proud to display my pride and joy, bahamaSpa.

The response from the attendees was absolutely amazing. People lined up to meet me and discuss the products, some waited until the trade show was done to ask more questions and a few said they wanted to leave smelling like paradise. It was breathtaking and very affirming. I felt very comfortable and ready but most of all I was prepared. I felt I had grown as a business woman. I was also fortunate to have met a very knowledgeable and successful businessman who is involved in natural products and an expert in the field of manufacturing cosmetics, Indira outlined.

After WE-Xport concluded, Indira continued to focus on her export goals and building capacity for the business. She hired new staff, trained the old ones, secured a dream contract with a major island resort, and was in the midst of creating a storefront for her factory when the COVID-19 pandemic hit.

We were on such a positive trajectory that we were blindsided. The lockdown was initially a huge shock for me, Indira said, revealing she opted to pay her staff for the entire three-month period. I still feel this was the right decision even though it left me with very little cash and lots of bills.

Sales dwindled as the lockdown dragged on and with little income, Indira was forced to innovate. While browsing social media, she realized men and women were struggling with hair and skin care, since salons were closed and their personal beauty supplies were running low.

She decided the time had come to launch a hair care line she had been working on for two years: Good & Kinky Boost and Good & Kinky hair oil.
I came up with a marketing strategy which worked for me, BOOST, made fresh Thursday, delivered free on Friday, softer more manageable hair by Saturday. The reviews were great and the products have great potential. I launched something during the COVID-19 lockdown that had become highly requested and a money maker. Sometimes, one simply has to take a leap of faith, Indira proudly said.

However, it wasn’t always a bed of roses. Unfortunately due to the new COVID-19 protocols and social distancing regulations in Nassau, Indira’s factory did not pass inspection and she lost all the money she had invested renovating the workspace.

But as fate would have it, the businessperson she met at 4th CARIFORM-EU Business Forum in Germany became her business mentor during the lockdown. With their expert guidance, Indira has finalized an achievable and manageable planfor export to the European market.

They are convinced bahamaSpa is definitely a scalable business; with their insight, market research and other factors, they are convinced that a marketing drive centred on London, Paris, Rome and Frankfurt will produce remarkable results. Export is now on the horizon! I plan on making bahamaSpa a Caribbean Export success story! I am so grateful that I was afforded the opportunity to participate in WE-Xport, it opened doors for bahamaSpa. My mantra is: With two pots and a spoon, bahamaSpa will make it all the way to Harrods! Indira confidently said.

“Clothing that Flaunts” is the slogan for Trinidadian designer, Reuben Gonzales’ self-titled fashion brand. As a graduate of the Caribbean Academy of Fashion Design (CAFD) at the University of Trinidad and Tobago (UTT), Reuben’s designs as a student caught the attention of local fashion supporters which led to him taking his work overseas and representing his country at regional showcases.

Reuben started his journey in the fashion industry with an intention to design costumes for theatre. He did however develop a love for fashion and grasped the opportunity to develop his own clothing brand.

Reuben’s initial passion for theatre costume is evident in the dramatic features and bold fabrics he chooses to create his designs for his label. Reuben is also inspired by his environment and the richness of Caribbean culture.

“I have three main sources of inspiration which are fauna, flora, and cultures native or synonymous with my country, the Caribbean, and my heritage. Each collection or garment that I design must have that mix of all three elements.”

One of the highlights for Reuben as a designer is the creative process, which allows him to express his vision and he thoroughly enjoys each stage, which includes making mood boards, choosing fabrics, colours, illustrating, draping, and pattern drafting.

As a Caribbean-based designer, who has had the opportunity to showcase his work in regional shows and print publications. His presence in the Caribbean fashion industry has also exposed him to the talent across the region.

“The Caribbean fashion industry has a plethora of creativity, vibrancy and diversity that showcases the Caribbean aesthetic.” Our industry is growing and quite young in comparison to the major fashion capitals, however, there is a wave of new talent that is helping the Caribbean get that international recognition we so deserve.”

For his own brand, Reuben’s goal is to take his designs beyond the Caribbean and to have an international presence in fashion retail stores, boutiques, and the wardrobes of those who love to make a bold fashion statement.

To see more of Reuben’s collections, visit:

https://rgfashion.co/
Instagram: @rgfashiontt
Facebook: rgfashiontt

In the past week, there have been developments in other areas of the region’s foreign trade agenda which are of note. They are as follows:

• CARICOM-USA – The USA has extended the Caribbean Basin Trade Partnership Act (CBPTA) for 10 years to 2030. I actually viewed the session of the US House Ways and Means Committee which considered the bill and recommended its adoption. This was a bipartisan effort. It was clear, however, that the adoption of the bill emphasised the interest of Haiti, the only least developed country (LDC) in the Western Hemisphere. Other CARICOM member states need to ensure that they are using the market access preferences granted under these arrangements.

• WTO DG SELECTION – At the World Trade Organization (WTO), the candidates for the post of director general (DG) were further narrowed to two women, Dr Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala of Nigeria and Ms Yoo Myung-Hee of South Korea. Indeed, history is expected to be made as a woman should be the next WTO DG, if all goes to plan. The question is, which one will receive the support of a critical mass of the 164 WTO members, including the principal trading powers, by November 6?

The 79-member Organisation of African, Caribbean and Pacific States (OACPS), which also operates at the WTO in Geneva, has formally endorsed Dr Okonjo-Iweala. From this, I am assuming that CARICOM WTO members have also endorsed her. To be the clear, DG-designate Okonjo-Iweala needs to secure the support of Latin American countries, some important countries in Asia, such as India and Japan, the European Union (EU), and the USA and China.

• OACPS-EU POST-COTONOU NEGOTIATIONS – I last gave an update on the OACPS-EU post-Cotonou negotiations in August, when the negotiating timeline was extended. As expected, the negotiations resumed in September. Some sources feel that there is a 99 per cent chance that the negotiations will be concluded this year.

The protocols with the Caribbean and the Pacific, from reports, seem to be moving along well. Nevertheless, there seems to be some concern about that with Africa. There are still human-rights and migration issues to be resolved. As I pointed out before, the impression is given in the media that these are issues which primarily concern Africa, but they are also of interest to the Caribbean and the Pacific.

As also previously signalled, the EU’s primary focus is on Africa as it aims to change the relationship to a partnership of equals. The EU High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy, Josef Borrell, recently referred to Africa as the EU’s natural partner and neighbour, and said that to face common challenges, the EU needs a strong Africa, and Africa needs a strong EU.

The EU wanted to unveil its new Africa strategy at the EU-Africa Summit, scheduled for the end of this month. The summit has been postponed and could be rescheduled for December. COVID-19 is now central to these deliberations.

BLACKLISTING

For the Caribbean, since June, the focus has been on the EU’s blacklisting of member states as non-cooperative jurisdictions for tax purposes. The EU Economic and Financial Affairs Council (finance ministers), you will recall, issued a revised list in June which included ten OACPS members, including, at least one CARICOM member state, and putting others on notice. The OACPS president-in-office, President Uhuru Kenyatta of Kenya, sent a letter to the top leadership of the EU condemning its unilateral action, noting that money laundering could be fought in the context of the 2000 Cotonou Partnership Agreement and that the post-Cotonou negotiations provided the opportunity to demonstrate the parties’ commitment to dialogue and a strengthened partnership. I understand that discussions have been ongoing between the OACPS and the EU on this blacklisting issue in the post-Cotonou negotiations.

On October 6, the EU finance ministers updated its money-laundering list and, of interest to CARICOM, added Barbados. CARICOM responded by issuing a strong statement deploring the EU’s ongoing unilateral, arbitrary and non-transparent action. CARICOM called on the EU to pursue a mutually collaborative engagement towards shared goals of effective tax governance to combat money laundering and terrorism financing. In CARICOM’s view, blacklisting, even greylisting, does serious damage to the reputation of its member states.

It is likely that this week, there could be further information on the progress towards completing the post-Cotonou negotiations, an objective of which is the transformation to a partnership of equals. You may wonder whether the OACPS and the EU are actually moving in this direction.

This article which was originally published by the Jamaica Gleaner was submitted by Elizabeth Morgan, Specialist in International Trade Policy and International Politics.