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From the lush landscapes of Dominica to the artisan kitchens of Trinidad and Tobago, Caribbean innovation and flavour take centre stage at Agroalimentaria 2025, taking place from May 28–31, 2025, at the Dominican Fiesta Hotel & Convention Center in Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic.

Caribbean Export is proud to host the “Absolutely Caribbean” Pavilion at Booths 35 D and 36 D, where four outstanding companies from the region showcase the richness, creativity, and export potential of Caribbean food and beverage products.

🌿 Frying Pan Productions – Dominica

Frying Pan Productions offers a soothing and functional range of handcrafted tea blends, featuring locally sourced ginger and turmeric-ginger infusions. Rooted in Dominica’s fertile landscapes and wellness traditions, their products promote health, balance, and natural living.

☕ Café 509 – Haiti

At Café 509, the spotlight is on Haitian Blue Mountain Coffee, prized for its smooth body, rich aroma, and delicate flavour profile. Grown in the high-altitude regions of Haiti, this specialty coffee reflects the country’s deep-rooted tradition in coffee cultivation. Café 509 is committed to sustainable farming practices and ethical sourcing, delivering a premium product that captures the essence of Haiti’s terroir.

“It’s our first time at Agroalimentaria, and we’re incredibly thankful to Caribbean Export for making this possible,” said Pierre Desharnais, CEO, Co-Founder & Master Roaster at Café 509. “We honestly didn’t expect such an overwhelming response to our product. We’re going home with great feedback — and even more important, with great business opportunities.”

🍫 Choko Lakay – Haiti

Choko Lakay showcases the versatility of Haitian cacao with its production of cocoa powder, cocoa butter, and cocoa tea. By transforming raw cocoa into high-quality, export-ready products, the company supports local farmers and champions sustainable agriculture while introducing global markets to the richness of Haitian cocoa.

🌶️ Handmade by Jeanette – Trinidad & Tobago

Bringing bold island flavour to the fore, Handmade by Jeanette crafts a diverse range of sauces, pepper sauces, condiments, and health foods. Rooted in Caribbean culinary traditions and made with wholesome, locally sourced ingredients, the brand reflects a passion for wellness, authenticity, and exceptional taste.

In addition to product exhibitions, these companies participate in targeted B2B meetings with international buyers, attend technical conferences, and take part in a curated gastronomy event that celebrates the versatility and creativity of Caribbean ingredients.

As one of the Caribbean’s leading agro-industry trade events, Agroalimentaria attracts global buyers and distributors seeking authentic, high-quality products. The Caribbean’s offering — rooted in heritage, powered by innovation, and shaped by sustainability — is ready to meet that demand.

The future of Caribbean food and beverage is bold, authentic, and export-ready — and it’s making waves on the international stage.

From the cocoa fields of Trinidad and Tobago and the Dominican Republic to the vibrant kitchens of Jamaica, Caribbean innovation in health foods is set to make an impact on the global stage. From May 20–22, four agro-processors from the region will bring bold flavours, functional ingredients, and highlight their sustainable practices at Vitafoods Europe 2025 in Barcelona—one of the world’s leading events for the health and nutrition industry.

Supported by the Caribbean Export Development Agency (Caribbean Export) and the European Union under the Absolutely Caribbean brand, the event provides a strategic platform for participating firms to engage directly with European buyers, build commercial relationships, and gain valuable market insights.

The selected companies—Benlar Foods (Jamaica), Kahkow (Dominican Republic), Kairi Chocolate Company Limited (Trinidad and Tobago), and Veusse Naturals Ltd (Trinidad and Tobago)—will showcase a range of products including traditionally fermented sauces, a range of coconut water fruit infusions, sustainably sourced cocoa and vegan chocolate bars, as well as plant-based cheeses.

“The participation of these four exceptional Caribbean companies at Vitafoods Europe is a testament to the region’s capacity for innovation and its alignment with global health and wellness trends,” said Natasha Edwin-Walcott, Lead – Export Development and Promotion at Caribbean Export ” By supporting firms that are creating sustainable, functional products rooted in the Caribbean’s rich biodiversity, we’re opening new doors for trade, investment, and long-term growth in international markets.”

Consumer preferences across Europe are shifting toward healthier, more natural food options. A 2024 FoodNavigator survey found that 60% of consumers are actively trying to eat healthily, with increasing demand for natural, organic, and regionally sourced products. Additionally, a Speciality Food Magazine report revealed that 38% of consumers aged 35–44 purchase functional foods weekly, with digestive health and immune support among their top concerns.

The Caribbean firms exhibiting at Vitafoods Europe 2025 are well-positioned to meet these evolving demands:

• Benlar Foods offers 100% Jamaican sauces as well as a range of Caribbean fruit-infused coconut water, crafted in an ISO 14001-certified facility.
• Kahkow and Kairi present premium cocoa products made using sustainable farming methods, highlighting the rich, authentic taste of the Caribbean. Kairi’s vegan options including chickpeas and plantain, these innovations are set to captivate the European audience.
• Veusse Naturals Ltd develops nutrient-dense, plant-based cheeses and probiotic-enriched aiolis, incorporating indigenous Caribbean plants to support biodiversity and health-conscious living.

Participation at Vitafoods Europe represents a key opportunity for these brands to expand their presence in international markets and contribute meaningfully to the global dialogue on health, sustainability, and food innovation.

The Caribbean is ready to change the conversation. For decades, the region has been defined by its postcard-perfect beaches, vibrant culture, and warm hospitality. But this July, Montego Bay will host a transformative event that seeks to reintroduce the Caribbean to the world as a credible and competitive investment destination.

The Caribbean Investment Forum (CIF) 2025, officially launched this month in Kingston, is being positioned as the region’s premier platform for connecting international capital with high-potential, investment-ready opportunities across the Caribbean. The Forum is scheduled to take place in Montego Bay from July 29–31, 2025, under the theme “SMART. GREEN. CONNECTED.”

Hosted by the Caribbean Export Development Agency, in collaboration with the Government of Jamaica, the European Union, and the CARICOM Secretariat, CIF 2025 represents a strategic pivot in how the region markets itself globally. It highlights the Caribbean’s natural assets and its untapped potential in sectors vital to sustainable growth.

“The Caribbean has reached a pivotal juncture,” said Dr. Damie Sinanan, Executive Director of Caribbean Export, at the launch event. “We can no longer rely solely on traditional sectors to attract investment. We are building an economic ecosystem that is green, digital, and inclusive to ensure a resilient Caribbean region. CIF is where those ambitions meet action. The Caribbean Investment Forum continues to be the premier platform that transforms Caribbean potential into performance and the Caribbean region will move from global interest into investment impact.”

Senator the Honourable Aubyn Hill, Minister of Industry, Investment and Commerce, Jamaica’s Business Ministry, underscored the significance of Jamaica hosting this year’s Forum:
“Jamaica is tremendously honoured to host the Caribbean Investment Forum 2025 in partnership with the Caribbean Export. The forum provides a dynamic platform to demonstrate the readiness of Jamaica and the wider Caribbean to do business, increase exports, especially high-value services and attract transformative investments that grow GDP per capita, boost productivity and increase prosperity. As a Government, we are proud to lead the charge in presenting a greener, smarter and more connected Caribbean to the world, one which is open for transformative investments.”

CIF 2025 is expected to convene over 500 delegates, including international investors, government leaders, development finance institutions, entrepreneurs, and diaspora representatives. Over the three-day period, attendees will engage in pitch sessions, policy discussions, sector-specific roundtables, and deal-making opportunities.

The focus for this year’s Forum is both timely and ambitious. Key investment sectors include:

• Sustainable Agriculture: Strengthening food security and agribusiness innovation
• Green Economy Transition: Advancing renewable energy, climate resilience and sustainability
• Digital Transformation: Powering the future with fintech, AI, and smart technologies
• Logistics & Transportation: Enhancing trade, mobility and infrastructure for global connectivity

These sectors were deliberately chosen for their potential to generate inclusive economic growth, reduce poverty, and position the Caribbean as a serious player in global value chains.

At the launch, Her Excellency Dr. Erja Askola, Ambassador to Jamaica, Belize, and The Bahamas, reiterated the EU’s commitment:

” From green energy to digital transformation and transport connectivity, the European Union sees the Caribbean as a strategic partner in building a sustainable, better-connected future. Together, we can drive innovation, attract climate-smart investment and empower the region’s next generation of entrepreneurs. This is why the EU is excited to support the Caribbean Investment Forum 2025, where concrete collaborations can be incubated.”

The anticipated impact of CIF 2025 extends beyond Montego Bay. Organisers hope the event will catalyse a longer-term shift in how the Caribbean positions itself in global investment narratives. As the countdown to July begins, stakeholders across the region and the diaspora are being called upon to participate as partners in building a new Caribbean economy.

For more information on how to attend or partner with CIF 2025, visit www.caribbeaninvestmentforum.com or contact the organisers at info@carib-export.com.

• Over 930 business professionals across the region benefited from targeted support and capacity-building initiatives in 2024
• Women entrepreneurs made up 52% of all beneficiaries.
• Six major economic development programmes across key sectors, including green transition and digital transformation

The Caribbean Export Development Agency (Caribbean Export) has released its Annual Results Report 2024, under the theme ‘Delivering Impact’. This year’s report outlines how Caribbean Export continued to advance economic transformation by providing strategic support to businesses through initiatives focused on innovation, resilience, and sustainable private sector development across the Caribbean.

Operating in a complex global landscape, Caribbean Export facilitated interventions reaching over 930 entrepreneurs across 15 CARIFORUM states. Through key partnerships with the European Union, the Inter-American Development Bank (IDB), Compete Caribbean, Republic Bank, Caribbean Development Bank and others, the Agency mobilised over USD 14 million in donor funding to implement programmes that strengthened competitiveness and created opportunities for regional firms.

The report showcases the success of six major development projects, including the EU-funded Regional Private Sector Development Programme III (RPSDP III), and regional initiatives under the EU-LAC Digital Accelerator; the Caribbean Digital Transformation Institute, and the Green Energy Toolkit for MSMEs funded by IDB. These efforts tackled priority areas such as sustainable agriculture, green transition, renewable energy, digital innovation, and market access.

“Caribbean Export has to show relevance and impact to our private sector actors. We have not only deepened our existing programs but also introduced new initiatives that align with the dynamic needs of the region’s private sector,” said Dr. Damie Sinanan, Executive Director of Caribbean Export. “The success of this year’s programmes confirms that when we provide the right support, our businesses can excel on a global stage.”

Women-led enterprises continued to thrive, representing 52% of all supported businesses, while the Agency deepened its impact through inclusive programming and a strong focus on delivery and accountability across its portfolio.

The report also marks the completion of the Agency’s 2021–2024 Strategic Plan and introduces a bold new roadmap for 2025–2028. The new strategy is designed to boost investment readiness, strengthen institutional capacity, and position the Caribbean as a globally competitive and resilient region.

“A strong partnership is precisely what the European Union and the Caribbean Export Development Agency share. For decades, we have worked together to drive economic transformation in the Caribbean by supporting private sector development and creating more and better opportunities for small and medium-sized enterprises across the region,” noted Ambassador Malgorzata Wasilewska.

The Annual Results Report 2024 event, held at the Wyndham Grand Barbados Sam Lords Castle, on April 16, 2025, brought together stakeholders, partners, and beneficiaries to reflect on the year’s achievements and set the stage for the Agency’s new strategic agenda.

Small and Medium Enterprises are the backbone of economies across the Caribbean, Africa, and beyond, but access to finance and export opportunities remains a challenge. Mindful of this constraint, Republic Bank and the Caribbean Export Development Agency (Caribbean Export), with co-funding from the European Union via the 3^rd Regional Private Sector Development Programme, have embarked on a collaborative capacity-building initiative to position small businesses for expanded success. The Republic Bank -Caribbean Export “Thrive: Unlocking Finance and Export Potential for SMEs”  programme, a virtual finance and export development training initiative, will commence in April 2025 to benefit five hundred (500) SMEs.

The Republic Bank – Caribbean Export programme, Thrive, will provide 500 small businesses across Anguilla, Barbados, the British Virgin Islands, the Cayman Islands, Dominica, Ghana, Grenada, Guyana, St. Kitts and Nevis, St. Lucia, St. Maarten, St. Vincent and The Grenadines, Suriname, and Trinidad and Tobago with access to relevant and dynamic expert training designed to help them scale, innovate, and compete globally. Through online learning, live group sessions, and invaluable networking opportunities, the programme focuses on building resilience, improving financial literacy, and unlocking new market potential—key ingredients for sustainable business growth.

The programme will be implemented in two phases. In the first phase, Business Capacity Building 1.0, up to 500 entrepreneurs will receive expert training to enhance their financial and export readiness. From this group, the top 50 participants will advance to the second phase—Access 2 Finance Accelerator—a fully funded, six-month intensive training programme. While the value of phase one training is USD $156.00 per participant, a nominal commitment fee of USD $60.00 will be charged. This fee will be fully refunded upon successful completion of Business Capacity Building 1.0.

The Republic Bank–Caribbean Export Thrive programme aligns with the Bank’s Power to Make A Difference corporate social responsibility programme given its aim to bolster entrepreneurship and accelerate the development of communities and countries.  “We recognise the incredible potential of SMEs and the barriers they face in accessing finance and expanding into new markets. Through this initiative, we are committed to bridging that gap, providing the knowledge and resources necessary for businesses to not just survive, but thrive,” said Nigel Baptiste, Group President and Chief Executive Officer of Republic Financial Holdings Limited. He continued, “Beyond business success, it aligns with global goals for sustainable economic development, particularly SDG 8 (Decent Work and Economic Growth) and SDG 10 (Reduced Inequalities). By equipping SMEs with the tools to adopt innovative and sustainable practices, this programme will drive inclusive growth across all markets from which participants are drawn.”

Dr. Damie Sinanan, Executive Director of Caribbean Export, emphasised the programme’s role in strengthening business competitiveness. “It is an immense pleasure to partner with Republic Bank, one of the most successful indigenous financial institutions in the Caribbean, to empower small and medium enterprises across the region. Through Thrive, we are not just offering training—we are equipping businesses with the financial acumen, market intelligence, and strategic networks needed to scale and succeed. By addressing key barriers to growth, this initiative strengthens our region’s private sector and positions Caribbean entrepreneurs to take full advantage of international trade opportunities. This collaboration is a significant step toward driving sustainable economic transformation across the Caribbean and beyond.”

By investing in SMEs, this initiative is creating a ripple effect where stronger businesses lead to stronger communities and economies. With the right support, these enterprises can fuel innovation, create jobs, and position themselves as key players in the regional and global marketplace.

Five years ago, Tamara Gibson launched Native Caribbean, a Barbadian, woman-owned business creating culturally relevant scents and artisanal candles. Just three weeks after opening, COVID-19 struck—but instead of halting progress, the business continued to grow. Today, her business has moved locations three times to accommodate expansion, and with the ability to pour 1,000 candles a day, Native Caribbean continues to thrive in both local and international markets.

On February 21st, Canada’s Minister of International Development, The Hon. Ahmed Hussen, visited Native Caribbean to witness first-hand the impact of development programs in driving business growth, innovation and economic empowerment. Facilitated by the Caribbean Export Development Agency (Caribbean Export), the visit highlighted how targeted support through strategic partnerships between business support organizations such as Export Barbados amongst others, has helped firms like Tamara’s scale, access financing and enter international markets- an example of success that Canada hopes to replicate across the Caribbean through a new project- to be implemented by Caribbean export.

“Risk doesn’t disappear, but it can be managed with the right support. Agencies like Caribbean Export and Export Barbados provide a buffer, helping businesses navigate challenges and seize opportunities,” said Tamara. “Development funding and technical assistance are critical. Support from Caribbean Export gave us our first export plan—something I couldn’t have done alone. This kind of assistance helps businesses grow in ways we don’t always have the capacity for, opening doors to new markets and sustainable expansion”.

Tamara’s success story aligns with Canada’s broader commitment to fostering economic opportunities for women-led businesses in the region. During the Minister’s visit, Caribbean Export and Global Affairs Canada announced the CAD $3.46 million Caribbean Women Entrepreneurs Generating Resilient and Inclusive Trade (GRIT) project. GRIT will help women entrepreneurs in Belize, Dominica, Grenada, Jamaica, Saint Lucia, and Saint Vincent & the Grenadines:

• Enhance their productivity by adopting green business practices and technology.
• Develop the skills needed to meet international market requirements, including in Canada.
• Participate in trade missions and gain insights into new market opportunities.

Dr. Damie Sinanan, Executive Director of Caribbean Export, welcomed Canada’s continued investment in women entrepreneurs, stating:

“We are grateful for the Canadian government’s support for women entrepreneurs in the Caribbean. With this kind of backing, women-led businesses will have greater opportunities to grow, build resilience, and expand their exports—driving significant impact across the region,” said Dr. Damie Sinanan.

Tamara’s journey—from a startup navigating a global pandemic to a thriving export-ready business—is proof of what is possible when women entrepreneurs receive the tools they need to succeed. With initiatives like GRIT, more Caribbean women will be empowered to follow in her footsteps, transforming their businesses and their communities.

The Development Bank of Jamaica today (February 24) signed an Agreement with Caribbean Export for the introduction of a grant funding initiative aimed at driving Corporate Venturing and entrepreneurial innovation. The initiative will provide grant funding for local tech entrepreneurs and innovators who have secured a partnership with corporate entities to solve challenges. The DBJ, will provide grant funding to the tech entrepreneurs and innovators of up to US$75,000 once there is a partnership established between the corporate and a tech entrepreneur.

The MoU will provide local tech entrepreneurs with access to the EU-LAC Digital Accelerator which is led by TECNALIA and major international benchmark institutions such as IESE Business School, WAYRA- Telefónica, the European Business and Innovation Centre Network (EBN), the European Business Angels Network (EBAN), Expertise France, TECNALIA Ventures, Inter-American Development Bank IDB-Lab, TECNALIA-Colombia and implemented by Caribbean Export across the region.

Speaking at the Signing Ceremony, Edison Galbraith, Acting Managing Director, stated; “This Agreement will expand the activities within the Jamaican entrepreneurial ecosystem, by encouraging the participation of corporate companies. Corporates will be able to reap the benefits of the Jamaican entrepreneurs and innovators, collaborating to solve the challenges of corporates. It is a win-win for all, both corporates and the Entrepreneurs and Innovators. This is an investment in our people.”

Under the programme the Bank will work with Caribbean Export to issue a ‘Call for Challenges’ from corporates and invite Tech Entrepreneurs and Innovators to register on the platform to offer solutions.

“This partnership with the Development Bank of Jamaica marks a significant step in fostering innovation and entrepreneurship in the Caribbean. By connecting tech entrepreneurs with corporate partners and facilitating access to critical funding, we are creating opportunities for scalable solutions that drive business competitiveness and economic growth. Caribbean Export is committed to supporting this initiative through training and access to global networks, ensuring that our region’s innovators have the tools and resources needed to succeed in an increasingly digital world.”

The DBJ is confirming that Caribbean Export will be conducting a series of training workshops with tech Entrepreneurs and Innovators prior to the issuing of the ‘Call for challenges’ from corporates. The first of these workshops will take place in Kingston, Jamaica on February 26th under the title “Navigating Innovation: Bridging Corporations and Startups for a Thriving Digital Ecosystem in Jamaica.”

“The Development Bank of Jamaica wants to encourage all Corporates to connect with us to learn more about how this programme can benefit your entities. To grow your footprint you must innovate, collaborate with the technology innovators and invest in research and development. Corporation have traditionally been slower to adapt to the changing environment. Let this programme be the kick-start for your transformation, stated Christopher Brown, Programme Manager, BIGEE.

The Development Bank of Jamaica is the Executing Agency for the Government of Jamaica US$25 million loan programme signed with the Inter-American Development Bank (IDB) in 2020 to build out Jamaica’s entrepreneurial ecosystems. In 2021, BIGEE received a non-reimbursable grant of US8.2 million from the European Union to support the programme.

• Collaboration to promote renewable energy and energy efficiency across CARIFORUM states.
• Focus on enabling small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) to adopt sustainable energy practices.
• Joint efforts in technical assistance, project funding, and knowledge transfer to transform the region’s energy landscape.

At the 29th Conference of the Parties (COP29) on Energy Day, the Caribbean Export Development Agency (Caribbean Export) and the Caribbean Centre for Renewable Energy and Energy Efficiency (CCREEE) renewed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU). The signing followed Caribbean Export’s panel discussion, Building Climate Resilience in the Caribbean Region – A Private Sector Approach, held in the CARICOM Pavilion. Witnessed by key regional partners, it punctuated the pressing need for concrete climate action to advance sustainable energy solutions in the Caribbean.

The agreement focuses on empowering Caribbean businesses to adopt innovative renewable energy and energy efficiency practices. Key areas of collaboration include technical assistance, capacity building, and the joint development of projects aimed at reducing energy consumption and promoting clean, affordable energy technologies.

Dr. Damie Sinanan, Executive Director of Caribbean Export, emphasized the importance of the partnership:
” This collaboration represents a bold step towards empowering Caribbean businesses to lead in the green economy. By leveraging our combined expertise, we are not only advancing energy efficiency but also driving innovation that enhances competitiveness and resilience across the region. Together, we will shape a region where businesses thrive and contribute to a cleaner, more sustainable future for the Caribbean.”

Dr. Mohammad Rafik Nagdee, Executive Director of CCREEE, highlighted the broader implications of the agreement:
” The Caribbean’s transition to renewable energy is not just a necessity but an opportunity for economic growth and resilience. The private sector’s involvement is crucial in driving innovation and investment in sustainable energy solutions. The renewed Memorandum of Understanding signed on Energy Day at COP29 in Azerbaijan, underscores our commitment to fostering public-private partnerships that will accelerate this transition and ensure a sustainable future for our region.”

This MOU signals a united front in tackling climate change and fostering a sustainable energy ecosystem in the Caribbean. Through their collaboration, Caribbean Export and CCREEE aim to unlock funding opportunities, advance regional energy policies, and inspire innovative solutions for a greener future.

The Caribbean Export Development Agency is pleased to announce that Wayne Elliott has been appointed as the Manager of Technical Programmes.

Wayne Elliott is an international development professional with a proven background in project management, economic analysis, and research. He brings extensive experience in managing and implementing multilateral development initiatives, with a career dedicated to advancing sustainable development across the Caribbean. Wayne’s work focuses on derisking innovation, improving the regional business environment, and integrating Caribbean private enterprises into global value chains and sectoral clusters.

Currently serving as the Manager of Technical Programmes at Caribbean Export, Wayne leads a portfolio of initiatives aimed at fostering sustainable economic growth by boosting the competitiveness of businesses in the Caribbean. His expertise extends to guiding and participating in research-driven projects that enhance regional competitiveness, promote private sector development, raise awareness of climate change issues, and strengthen the innovation and entrepreneurial ecosystems in the Caribbean.

Wayne’s analytical skills and strategic approach have positioned him as a key contributor to initiatives that drive innovation, regional competitiveness, and inclusive growth. His commitment to improving lives through collaborative and impactful, human-centered solutions is at the heart of his work.

Wayne, a national of Barbados, is a graduate of the University of the West Indies – Cave Hill with academic qualifications that include a Master of Sciences Degree in Financial and Business Economics- Distinction. His academic background, combined with his extensive professional experience, makes him exceptionally well-suited to lead Caribbean Export´s technical programmes.

Commenting on his appointment, Wayne remarked that he embarks on this journey with purpose, passion, and a commitment to excellence. He shared: “Joining Caribbean Export as the Manager of Technical Programmes is a tremendous privilege. I look forward to leveraging our collective strengths to foster innovation, improve regional competitiveness, promote sustainable growth and deliver human-centered solutions that have a lasting impact.”

Wayne Elliott can be reached at: welliott@carib-export.com

The Caribbean Export Development Agency (Caribbean Export) is set to participate in the 29th Conference of the Parties (COP 29), taking place in Baku, Azerbaijan. As part of its commitment to advancing climate resilience and sustainable development across the Caribbean, Caribbean Export will host a panel discussion on November 15, 2024, focusing on ‘Building Climate Resilience in the Caribbean Region – A Private Sector Approach.’ The event will be held in the CARICOM Pavilion’s Side Event Room from 2:00 to 3:00 pm local time. 

The panel aims to address the unique challenges the Caribbean faces due to climate change, including rising sea levels, increasingly severe weather events, and escalating energy costs, which together threaten the region’s economies, particularly in tourism and agriculture. The discussion will explore innovative strategies and collaborative approaches that Caribbean businesses are employing to build resilience and transition towards a greener economy. 

Dr. Damie Sinanan, Executive Director of Caribbean Export, will join leaders from the Caribbean Development Bank (CDB), Caribbean Centre for Renewable Energy and Energy Efficiency (CCREEE) and Kenesjay Green. Together, they will discuss sustainable energy solutions, private sector adaptation strategies, and the mobilization of investments to support climate resilience in the Caribbean. 

Natasha Edwin-Walcott, Senior Advisor for Competitiveness and Export Promotion at Caribbean Export, will moderate the session. Key topics will include enhancing private sector resilience through international partnerships, improving access to climate finance, and attracting green investments. Panelists will also share insights on successful public-private partnerships and the crucial role of SMEs in driving the green transition. 

This panel underscores Caribbean Export’s commitment to fostering sustainable economic growth and climate resilience within the Caribbean private sector. Through ongoing collaboration with regional governments and international stakeholders, Caribbean Export is actively supporting initiatives that promote sustainable development and position the Caribbean as a leader in green economic transformation. 

• Green Business Practices training will take place in St. Kitts and Nevis from November 19-21, 2024
• Businesses will receive training on implementing energy-efficient and sustainable practices
• The training session is part of the Building Resilient Economies series

Businesses across Saint Kitts and Nevis are set to gain valuable insights at the ‘Enhancing MSME Competitiveness with Green Business Practices’ capacity building training, scheduled for November 19 – 21, 2024.

This opportunity, part of the Building Resilient Economies: Empowering CARIFORUM MSMEs through Capacity Building and Green Business Strategies series, developed by the Caribbean Export Development Agency, with support from the European Union, is offered in collaboration with the St. Kitts Investment Promotion Agency and the St. Kitts – Nevis Chamber of Industry and Commerce. It will help firms tackle rising energy costs and boost their competitiveness.

The training will equip companies with the tools and knowledge to implement sustainable, green business practices. By focusing on practical applications, the workshop aims to empower businesses to operate more efficiently, adopt energy-efficient strategies, and leverage renewable energy technologies. This approach will help reduce operational costs and enhance overall competitiveness while contributing to a greener future.

“As the region pivots towards a green economy, it is essential that our private sector remains competitive on the global stage. This capacity building series is a vital step in that direction, providing MSMEs with the resources and technical knowledge to transition to greener, more  sustainable practices,” said Natasha Edwin-Walcott, Manager (Ag) at Caribbean Export.

The series aligns with the region’s strategic priorities of promoting economic and environmental sustainability and is part of a broader effort to foster a more resilient, sustainable, and competitive CARIFORUM private sector by reducing energy dependency, supporting climate resilience, and improving energy security.

The series will be hosted across several member states, with the first activity already successfully executed in Jamaica early October, with positive feedback from participating businesses. The Saint Kitts intervention will continue this momentum, offering customized training modules, practical and hands-on activities, and access to leading experts in renewable energy and energy efficiency.

We encourage firms to register at carib-export.com/events.