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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.

The Caribbean Export Development Agency (Caribbean Export) and Global Affairs Canada (GAC) have entered into a partnership to strengthen women’s economic empowerment in the Caribbean. This collaboration underscores a shared commitment to supporting women entrepreneurs, fostering inclusive economic growth, and enhancing the region’s competitiveness in the global market.

Women-led businesses play a crucial role in economic development, contributing significantly to job creation, innovation, and community resilience. Studies show that women-owned enterprises account for nearly 40% of small and medium-sized businesses worldwide, yet they continue to face barriers such as limited access to financing, markets, and technical support. In the Caribbean, investing in women’s entrepreneurship is essential to unlocking sustainable growth and reducing economic disparities.

Through this partnership, Caribbean Export will implement the $3.46 million Caribbean Women Entrepreneurs Generating Resilient and Inclusive Trade (GRIT) project with a focus on Belize, Dominica, Grenada, Jamaica, Saint Lucia and Saint Vincent and the Grenadines. GRIT aims to equip women entrepreneurs with the tools, knowledge, and resources needed to scale their businesses, embrace innovation, and expand into international markets, including Canada. The collaboration will train and provide grants to women-led enterprises to adopt green business practices and integrate technology into their operations. It will also equip entrepreneurs with the knowledge and skills needed to access high-potential markets—including Canada—and meet technical trade requirements.

Dr. Damie Sinanan, Executive Director of Caribbean Export, emphasized the importance of this initiative, stating:
“Women entrepreneurs are at the heart of economic transformation in the Caribbean. By empowering them with the necessary skills, networks, and opportunities, we can drive sustainable economic growth and build more resilient communities. We value the strong partnership with Global Affairs Canada and look forward to the positive impact of our collaboration.”

“The Government of Canada is firmly committed to advancing women’s economic empowerment in the Caribbean by supporting initiatives that promote gender equality, economic growth and sustainable development. By investing in programs that remove systemic barriers and build the capacity of local organizations, our goal is to create an environment in which women can fully participate in and be involved in the region’s economic prosperity,” said Canada’s Minister of International Development, Ahmed Hussen.

The partnership between Caribbean Export and GAC aligns with global efforts to advance gender equality in trade and business. Empowering women entrepreneurs is not just a social imperative but an economic one. By investing in women-led businesses, this initiative will contribute to economic diversification, job creation, and greater regional stability.

Caribbean Export remains committed to fostering a more inclusive and resilient private sector by equipping women entrepreneurs with the tools they need to succeed. The GRIT project marks another significant step in advancing women’s economic empowerment in the Caribbean.

About GAC
Global Affairs Canada is a federal department of the Government of Canada. It defines, shapes and advances Canada’s interests and values in a complex global environment. Global Affairs Canada manages diplomatic relations, promotes international trade, provides consular assistance, and leads international development, humanitarian, and peace and security assistance efforts. Global Affairs Canada also contributes to national security and the development of international law.

More information about Global Affairs Canada can be found at www.international.gc.ca.

Contact: Media Relations Office, Global Affairs Canada, media@international.gc.ca

• 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.

• Eco-conscious Caribbean businesses exhibiting at world’s biggest food tradeshow – SIAL.
• ‘Absolutely Caribbean’ booth will highlight food from 26 innovative regional brands.
• SIAL Paris brings together global buyers, distributors, and producers for potential partnerships.

Cutting-edge Caribbean brands with fresh and exciting sustainable products are ready to explore potential new export opportunities at the world’s biggest food tradeshow – SIAL Paris 2024.

Exhibiting at the ‘Absolutely Caribbean’ booth from 19-23 October, with support from the Caribbean Export Development Agency (Caribbean Export) and the European Union, an exclusive group of 26 regional companies will showcase their flair, flavours, and innovation to thousands of SIAL attendees who are looking for the next big trend in the food industry.

Global buyers, distributors, and restaurateurs will interact with individual businesses from Barbados, Haiti, Jamaica, Saint Lucia, and Trinidad & Tobago as well as local Trade Promotion Organisations over the course of five days. All the companies taking part were chosen because their products represent the Caribbean’s unmatched access to local, organic ingredients while also demonstrating a strong commitment to sustainable processes and ethical manufacturing practices.

Trinidad and Tobago’s ‘Handmade by Jeanette’ will be on show at the ‘Absolutely Caribbean’ SIAL stand. This lifestyle company, founded in 2020 by Jeanette Marcelle, makes handmade, organic, and eco-friendly agri-food products using 75% locally sourced ingredients. Jeanette is also dedicated to reducing food waste by utilising imperfect or surplus produce that would typically be discarded.

Small batch coffee and chocolate producer ‘Noble Tree Speciality Coffee and Cocoa’ will also be showcasing its products in Paris. Established in 2017, this Saint Lucian brand sources 100% of its coffee and cocoa from local farmers. Nobel Tree prides itself on prioritising “social responsibility, corporate responsibility, environmental impact, and sustainability” and for every tree harvested, its best seedlings are replanted, to ensure ongoing production with minimal negative effects.

Consumer interest in sustainable food sources is undoubtedly a hot topic. In its 2023 Earth Day Survey , consulting firm Kearney found that “… consumers are considering the environmental impacts of their food choices more than ever”. It added: “Climavorism—defined as actively making food choices based on climate impacts with the intent to benefit the planet—is a growing concept and lifestyle.”

In 2022, Innova’s Lifestyle & Attitude Survey also found 90% of consumers claim to “at least sometimes consider the environment when choosing food” and “over 1 in 4 consumers want environmental considerations to be part of future new product development, with similar importance for flavour and naturalness.”

Natasha Edwin-Walcott, Manager (ag), Competitiveness & Export Development, Caribbean Export, said “Global demand for organic, eco-conscious food products continues to grow, and Caribbean agro-processors are uniquely positioned to meet this demand with authentic, planet-friendly offerings. Caribbean Export is dedicated to fostering innovation and sustainability in the region, and we’re proud to support these exceptional companies as they bring the vibrant flavors and rich culture of the Caribbean to the global stage.”

We invite you to visit the ‘Absolutely Caribbean’ stand at Booth 4 K 083 to interact with these unique regional brands which represent the perfect combination of bold invention and thoughtful innovation.

Caribbean Export Development Agency (Caribbean Export) and DHL, a global leader in logistics, have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to formalize a strategic partnership aimed at enhancing the capabilities of micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) in the Caribbean. The MOU establishes a framework for collaboration between the two organizations in areas such as e-commerce, logistics., and professional development, supporting MSMEs’ growth in the global marketplace.

The MOU underscores Caribbean Export’s commitment to fostering economic growth in the region by enhancing the skills and knowledge of MSMEs. Through this partnership, Caribbean Export and DHL will launch a series of initiatives designed to help MSMEs navigate the complexities of global trade, particularly in logistics and e-commerce.

Dr. Damie Sinanan, Executive Director of Caribbean Export, stated:

“This partnership with DHL is a significant step forward in our efforts to empower Caribbean MSMEs and equip them with the tools and knowledge they need to compete effectively on the global stage. By combining Caribbean Export’s deep understanding of the region’s business landscape with DHL’s international expertise in logistics and e-commerce, we can create transformative opportunities for MSMEs to expand their market reach and thrive in the digital economy.”

“At DHL, we take pride in our partnership with Caribbean Export, as it signifies a notable achievement in our efforts to foster economic growth and create better opportunities for SMEs. This partnership holds great significance in our journey to make a real difference in the lives of businesses in the Caribbean region.” said Mario de Silva, Country Manager of DHL (Barbados) Ltd.

Partnership Objectives

The MOU between Caribbean Export and DHL focuses on several key areas, including:

1. Capacity Building for MSMEs: Through collaborative initiatives, Caribbean Export and DHL will provide training and resources to help MSMEs overcome logistical challenges and leverage e-commerce opportunities.
2. Professional Development for Caribbean Export Staff: DHL will offer technical assistance to enhance the skills of Caribbean Export staff in logistics and e-commerce, enabling the agency to better support the region’s MSMEs.
3. Strengthening Training Modules: DHL will contribute its expertise to update and strengthen Caribbean Export’s ProNET (Productivity Network) training modules, ensuring that MSMEs receive relevant and up-to-date guidance.
4. Ongoing Collaboration: The MOU lays the groundwork for future cooperation between Caribbean Export and DHL, with the flexibility to introduce new initiatives that further support MSMEs in the Caribbean region.

First Activities Announced: Workshops on E-Commerce and Logistics

As part of this collaboration, Caribbean Export and DHL are pleased to announce the first two workshops under the MOU framework. These workshops, based on DHL’s GoTrade program ‘are designed to provide Caribbean MSMEs with practical insights into e-commerce and logistics:

Introduction to E-Commerce:

Date: 30th October 2024

Time: 11am – 1pm (AST)

This workshop will introduce MSMEs to the fundamentals of e-commerce, covering topics such as digital sales strategies, payment gateways, and creating an effective online presence.

The Art of Logistics:

Date: 11th November 2024

Time: 11am – 1pm (AST)

Focused on the critical role logistics plays in global trade, this workshop will guide MSMEs through the essentials of supply chain management, international shipping, and customs processes, ensuring businesses are well-prepared to deliver their products efficiently to global markets.

Both workshops will be facilitated by experts from DHL’s GoTrade program and are designed to provide actionable knowledge that MSMEs can immediately apply to improve their competitiveness and operational efficiency.

Link to the Mou Signing: Watch Now

• ‘Absolutely Caribbean’ pavilion at SIAL Paris 2024 will feature 26 unique Caribbean brands.
• Companies from Barbados, Haiti, Jamaica, St Lucia, and Trinidad & Tobago are taking part.
• Caribbean products on show will include sauces, condiments, chocolate, coffee, and cakes.

Vibrant, original, exotic, and diverse Caribbean flavours are set to command attention at ‘SIAL Paris 2024’ when 26 regional businesses display their one-of-a-kind products at the world’s biggest food tradeshow from 19-23 October.

The carefully curated group of established and emerging Caribbean agro-processors will exhibit their products under the ‘Absolutely Caribbean’ umbrella supplied by the Caribbean Export Development Agency with financial support from the European Union.

“Caribbean Export is thrilled to be supporting 26 Caribbean brands at this year’s installation of SIAL Paris, one of the world’s premiere food expos, with thousands of visitors expected over the five-day period. Following a competitive process, we selected a diverse but quality range of products that we believe highlight the best of the Caribbean. We have worked closely with the brands, and together with European partners, provided a training series on export requirements to ensure firm capacity and expertise to access the European market. The brands will be represented by individual firms, but also Trade Promotion Organisations from across the region, a partnership we are proud of,” said Natasha Edwin-Walcott, Manager (ag), Competitiveness & Export Development, Caribbean Export.

Thousands of industry buyers and media who visit the ‘Absolutely Caribbean’ booth over the course of the show’s five days will get the chance to enjoy a tantalising variety of Caribbean food inspired by, and infused with, fresh, locally-sourced ingredients such as mango, pineapple, passion fruit, and coconut, and made using sustainable and ethical manufacturing practices.

Haitian chocolate producer Choko Lakay is one of the regional businesses set to share its story at SIAL Paris 2024. This company started in 2016 and now helps support over 200 female farmers grow organic, sustainable cacao for a range of premium products such as cocoa butter, cocoa nibs, cocoa tea, chocolate soap and massage oil.

Dark Seamoss from St Lucia will also present its suite of ocean-farmed, organic products at SIAL. Dark Seamoss’s range of healthy drinks and concentrated powders tap into the benefits of sea moss as a fibre-rich prebiotic that boosts good bacteria in the gut and helps to lower cholesterol.

All the ‘Absolutely Caribbean’ specialty food brands at SIAL plan to take full advantage of global interest in Caribbean cuisine which has continued to grow ever since it was identified in 2022 as one of the top food trends by the US National Restaurant Association.

In addition, research on the ‘Top Ten Trends for 2024’ in the global food and beverage market by Innova found that two-thirds of consumers are “open to trying new global cuisines” and these can include “authentic, adventurous foreign dishes, as well as globally-influenced dishes made with local ingredients”. This aptly demonstrates the export potential for Caribbean-based food around the world.

Adventurous customers are continually craving bold, innovative, naturally healthy flavours and Caribbean food ticks every single box, which makes the ‘Absolutely Caribbean’ booth at SIAL a must-visit area where attendees can expect delicious tastings, interesting interactions, and memorable stories.

We invite industry buyers and media to visit the ‘Absolutely Caribbean’ brand at Booth 4 K 083, and look forward to demonstrating exactly what makes Caribbean food truly exceptional.

In a prestigious ceremony, the Export and Investment Center of the Dominican Republic (ProDominicana) awarded Caribbean Export a special recognition for its vital support in executing projects that advance exports and investment in the country. This accolade acknowledges Caribbean Export as a crucial strategic partner in implementing programs that help exporting companies and small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in the Dominican Republic reach international markets.

During the “Alianzas que Suman” (Alliances that Add Up) ceremony, Ms. Romily Thevenin, Communications and Research Officer, accepted the recognition on behalf of Caribbean Export. The award was presented by ProDominicana’s Executive Director, Ms. Biviana Riveiro.

ProDominicana praised Caribbean Export for its “exceptional contributions,” which have been instrumental to the organization’s success. Caribbean Export’s consistent support has been essential in boosting exports and investment in the Dominican Republic through comprehensive programs including capacity building, market intelligence, and technical assistance, enhancing significantly the competitiveness of Dominican businesses. Initiatives in export promotion, investment facilitation, and access to finance have opened new opportunities not only for local products and services but for the entire Caribbean region on the global stage. Additionally, the focus on sustainability, innovation, and sector-specific support, along with strategic partnerships and regional integration efforts, have fostered a robust and dynamic economic environment.

The recognition of Caribbean Export underscores its ongoing commitment and dedication to creating a favorable environment for trade and investment, which is commendable and pivotal for the Dominican Republic’s economic growth.

Other honorees at the event included the Ministry of Economy, Planning, and Development of the Dominican Republic, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MIREX), The Santo Domingo Chamber of Commerce and Production, the Dominican Agribusiness Board (JAD), the Development and Export Bank (BANDEX), Banreservas, DP World, INICIA, FERSAN, La Aurora, the Dominican Exporters Association (ADOEXPO), the Association of Foreign Investment Companies (ASIEX), businessman Evaristo Pérez Carrión, and businesswoman Ligia Bonetti.

We extend our heartfelt gratitude to ProDominicana for this recognition and look forward to continuing our collaborative efforts to drive economic growth and prosperity in the Dominican Republic and the entire Caribbean region.

• Partnership Agreement Facilitates Caribbean’s Access to African Market
• MoU Highlights Closer Partnership Between Africa and the Caribbean
• Unleashing New Opportunities for Growth and Collaboration in Africa

The Caribbean Export Development Agency (Caribbean Export) has inked a partnership with the African Export-Import Bank (Afreximbank) through the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU). This strategic alliance aims to drive collaboration in vital areas such as capacity building, information exchange, trade facilitation, and investment facilitation between Africa and the Caribbean region.

Dr. Damie Sinanan, Executive Director of Caribbean Export, highlighted the significance of this partnership during a joint press conference at the Caribbean Investment Forum. He stressed the Agency’s determination to explore new frontiers for export expansion, specifically focusing on promising markets such as Africa.

The MoU was signed on June 14, 2024, in the Bahamas. It marks a significant achievement following Caribbean Export’s missions to Ghana and Nigeria in 2023. These missions involved a delegation of companies and business support organizations from the Caribbean, uncovering substantial opportunities for enhanced trade and investment between Africa and the Caribbean.

“We found immense opportunities for trade and investment between Africa and the Caribbean,” added Dr. Sinanan. He told the media that Ghanaian firms’ eagerness to collaborate with counterparts in the Caribbean signals the vast potential for mutual growth and prosperity.

He emphasized the value of knowledge transfer from African partners in trade, investment, and technological advancements, thereby underlining the agency’s commitment to fostering enduring relationships and partnerships over the next “three to five years.”

In alignment with this vision, Okechukwu Ihejirika, Acting Chief Operating Officer of the Caribbean Office of Afreximbank, spoke about the bank’s unwavering commitment to standing as a robust partner for the Caribbean region. “There’s much value inherent in us working together as a team. We make ourselves a formidable force when we work together,” Ihejirika said.

Notably, this strategic alliance sets the stage for a concerted push to strengthen trade relations and foster a more resilient bond between Africa and the Caribbean.

The collaboration between Caribbean Export and Afreximbank represents a significant step forward in enhancing Caribbean firms’ capacity to harness the vast opportunities presented by the African market and forge indispensable partnerships critical for driving sustainable trade and investment growth.