News

The Caribbean Export Development Agency (Caribbean Export) and the Inter-American Development Bank (IDB) have signed a landmark Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) aimed at enhancing cooperation to accelerate sustainable investment and project development in the Caribbean region.

The MOU was signed in Montego Bay by Dr. Damie Sinanan, Executive Director of Caribbean Export, and Anton Edmunds, General Manager of the IDB’s Caribbean Country Department. This strategic partnership will support the implementation of the ONE Caribbean Project Preparation Coordination Mechanism (PPCM), designed to create a robust pipeline of well-prepared, market-ready projects to attract financing from regional and global investors.

Under the agreement, both organizations will collaborate to:

• Enhance project readiness by improving the quality and structuring of projects, making them more attractive to investors and financiers.
• Expand investment opportunities by developing a pipeline of bankable projects aligned with the Caribbean’s sustainable development goals.
• Maximize regional synergies by engaging investment promotion agencies and stakeholders to strengthen the region’s overall investment landscape.

Dr. Damie Sinanan expressed optimism about the collaboration: “This partnership with the IDB marks a significant step in advancing our mission to mobilize impactful investments for the Caribbean. Together, we will foster innovation, resilience, and sustainable growth by ensuring that projects are well-prepared and positioned to attract the financing needed to transform our economies.”

Anton Edmunds of the IDB emphasized the Bank’s commitment: “Through this MOU, we are deepening our partnership with Caribbean Export to unlock greater access to financing and technical support for Caribbean countries and investing companies. The ONE Caribbean Project Preparation Coordination Mechanism will play a critical role in strengthening project pipelines, supporting private sector development, and delivering transformative impact across the region.”

The MOU will remain in effect for three years, with a joint Action Plan that will guide collaborative activities, including information exchange, stakeholder engagement, and potential staff exchanges, all aimed at improving the Caribbean’s project development ecosystem.

For more information, visit www.carib-export.com or www.iadb.org

Nigel Baptiste, President and Chief Executive Officer of Republic Financial Holdings Limited, has stated that financing a ‘Green Caribbean’ is indeed achievable—but will require sustained effort and a multi-faceted strategy.

While the region has expressed strong interest in transitioning to a green economy, challenges persist in closing the investment gap and securing adequate climate finance.

“It is feasible to finance a ‘Green Caribbean,’ but it requires a multi-pronged approach involving various financing mechanisms and a strong commitment from both public and private sectors. While the region faces challenges like high debt levels and limited access to traditional financing, innovative solutions and international support are increasingly available,” Baptiste said.

As global warming accelerates and climate-related weather events grow more frequent and intense, it has become imperative to restructure production and consumption patterns. This transformation promotes alignment among the triple goals of environmental, economic, and social sustainability.

“The challenge of climate change has given rise to a variety of initiatives aimed at the ‘greening of the global economy,’ that is, the creation of an economy which the planet can sustain indefinitely,” Baptiste added.

To effectively respond to the realities of climate change, the Caribbean requires major investment in both climate adaptation and mitigation. This includes upgrading infrastructure, scaling renewable energy solutions, and advancing sustainable agriculture. Estimates indicate that the region needs between US$10 billion and US$29 billion annually to meet its climate targets.

However, many Caribbean nations face serious fiscal constraints.

“Many Caribbean nations are small island developing states (SIDS) with constrained budgets. Funding large-scale sustainable projects, such as port electrification and renewable energy installations, often requires international loans or grants,” Baptiste noted.

Public debt levels limit national capacity to fund green initiatives. Still, Baptiste believes that green finance represents a viable path forward.

“It is possible to finance a ‘Green Caribbean’, and various initiatives and mechanisms are being developed to support this transition. These include blended finance, green bonds, and impact investment vehicles tailored for Small Island Developing States (SIDS). The focus is on bridging the investment gap by making green projects more bankable and attracting private sector involvement,” he said.

Anton Edmunds, General Manager of the Caribbean Country Department at the Inter-American Development Bank (IDB), supports this outlook, noting that green financing can and should involve a combination of public, private, and international sources.

“Public development banks, governments, and multilateral organizations play a crucial role, particularly in the initial stages, while private sector involvement is essential for long-term sustainability,” Edmunds said.
He added that green finance has the power to reshape Caribbean economies.

“Green finance can significantly improve Caribbean economies by attracting investment into sustainable projects, reducing reliance on fossil fuels, and creating new economic opportunities. By embracing green finance, the Caribbean can build a more resilient, diversified, and environmentally sustainable future,” he explained.

Edmunds noted that the region is rich in natural capital, which, if properly managed, can be leveraged for transformative, inclusive development.

“Ecosystems such as coral reefs, among others, not only play an essential role in carbon absorption and water conservation, but also support the production of food, raw materials, and key resources for the livelihoods of the region’s population and economy,” he said.

Yet, the Caribbean remains highly vulnerable to climate impacts, ecosystem degradation, and pollution of air, water, and soil. These environmental threats carry serious socio-economic consequences, from food insecurity and public health challenges to slowed development.

“These phenomena have significant socioeconomic impacts, affecting livelihoods, food security, human health, and development. In this context, the IDB has been supporting governments through the Caribbean Development Bank, to help create a nexus between the nature, climate, waste, and energy portfolios through different policy instruments that integrate development and seek greater resource mobilization to address the triple planetary crisis,” Edmunds stated.

Green finance is increasingly being viewed not only as an environmental imperative but as a mechanism to accelerate broader national development goals.

Baptiste and Edmunds agree that the upcoming Caribbean Investment Forum (CIF 2025) presents an opportunity to spotlight investment-ready projects and solutions that advance the region’s green transition.

CIF 2025 is hosted by the Caribbean Export Development Agency in collaboration with the Ministry of Industry, Investment & Commerce (MIIC), JAMPRO, the European Union Global Gateway, and the CARICOM Secretariat. Strategic partners include Republic Bank, the Inter-American Development Bank (IDB), and the Jamaica Special Economic Zone Authority (JSEZA).

Other confirmed speakers include David Mogollon, Head of Cooperation EU Delegation to Barbados, Eastern Caribbean States, Trinidad and Tobago, the OECS and CARICOM/CARIFORUM, Karen Yip Chuck, Group Vice President, Republic Financial Holdings Limited and Vice President, Republic Bank Limited, Gillian Charles-Gollop, Executive Director, & Head, Corporate Banking & Sustainable Finance, CIBC, Darryl White, Managing Director – Caribbean Region IDB Invest and Antonio H. Pinheiro Silveira, Vice President – Private Sector CAF Development Bank of Latin America and the Caribbean.

KINGSTON, JAMAICA (July 21, 2025) — Darwin Telemaque, Port Manager at the Antigua Port Authority, has issued a strong call for regional port authorities to come together to advance the modernization and digitization of Caribbean ports. According to Telemaque, only through collective effort can ports across the region be uniformly elevated to meet the demands of the digital age.

The Caribbean is defined by its vibrant maritime industry, with ports serving as critical gateways for international trade, tourism, and regional connectivity. However, as the global demand for sustainability and digital integration intensifies, Caribbean ports face the dual challenge of adopting forward-thinking strategies while overcoming long-standing structural limitations.

Although several ports are implementing initiatives such as Single Windows for Foreign Trade (VUCEs) and Port Community Systems (PCS) to improve efficiency and facilitate trade, others continue to lag behind.

“Not all Caribbean ports are at the same level of digital maturity, with some still grappling with outdated infrastructure and processes. While some ports are investing in advanced technologies, others may lack the necessary infrastructure and skilled workforce to fully leverage digital solutions,” Telemaque said.

He also noted that many Caribbean ports are not equipped to handle modern vessels. “Berth congestion, limited draft, and antiquated handling equipment result in longer turnaround times and lower service reliability,” he said.

“Coordination between port authorities, customs, and terminal operators is often slow and fragmented. The lack of standardized procedures across jurisdictions further complicates operations for shipping lines and cargo owners,” he explained.

The region also trails in adopting digital port management systems. “Manual documentation and insufficient real-time cargo tracking increase processing times and limit transparency,” Telemaque said.

Adding to the complexity is the region’s vulnerability to climate-related disruptions. “The Caribbean’s vulnerability to hurricanes and sea-level rise also presents ongoing disruptions and long-term infrastructure risks. Some ports lack the resilience measures necessary to maintain operations during and after severe weather events.”

Though sustainability is on the agenda at several Caribbean ports, readiness levels vary significantly. “Although several Caribbean ports have started integrating sustainability into their operations. While their readiness is marked by initiatives in green technologies, infrastructural improvements, and policy frameworks, there is still much more significant work to be done,” he said.

Many ports have adopted Environmental Management Systems (EMS), often aligned with international standards such as ISO 14001, to help manage environmental risks, monitor emissions, and ensure regulatory compliance.

“Continued efforts, paired with a shared commitment to improvement, will allow the Caribbean shipping sector to strengthen its position globally, driven not only by strategic decisions but by the resilience and determination of the individuals who sustain it every day,” Telemaque added.

However, a number of deep-rooted challenges persist. “Many Caribbean nations are small island developing states (SIDS) with constrained budgets. Funding large-scale sustainable projects, such as port electrification and renewable energy installations, often requires international loans or grants,” he said.

Meanwhile, access to advanced technologies remains out of reach for many smaller ports. “Advanced technologies, such as automated cargo handling systems and emissions monitoring tools, remain prohibitively expensive for smaller ports.”

Telemaque also stressed the pressing need to address skills gaps. “Sustainable port operations demand specialized skills in areas such as green logistics, renewable energy systems, and digital technologies. However, many ports face shortages of trained professionals capable of implementing and managing these systems.”

Despite these structural and financial barriers, he expressed confidence in the region’s resilience. “While the Caribbean region faces clear structural and operational challenges, it is important to acknowledge the consistent and commendable efforts made by industry professionals across the board. Port workers, shipping agents, customs officers, terminal operators, and regional authorities continue to work under complex and often unpredictable conditions,” he concluded.

Darwin Telemaque will be among the distinguished speakers at the upcoming Caribbean Investment Forum (CIF) 2025, the region’s premier platform for investors, entrepreneurs, and policymakers to connect, collaborate, and capitalize on high-growth opportunities. The Forum will take place from July 29–31, 2025, at the Montego Bay Convention Centre in Jamaica. The event is hosted by the Caribbean Export Development Agency, in collaboration with the European Union Global Gateway, the Ministry of Industry, Investment & Commerce, JAMPRO, and the CARICOM Secretariat. Strategic partners include Republic Bank, the Inter-American Development Bank and the Jamaica Special Economic Zone Authority.

Other confirmed speakers include;  Jeffrey Hall ⏤ CEO & Vice Chair Pan Jamaica Group Ltd, Asteway Desta ⏤ CEO – Caribbean DHL Express Americas, Kelli-Dawn Hamilton ⏤ Chief Executive Officer Jamaica Special Economic Zone Authority and Gloria Henry ⏤ Vice President – BPO and Logistics Port Authority of Jamaica

The rapid advancement of Artificial Intelligence (AI) is reshaping the global business landscape, demanding a shift in leadership strategies to remain competitive and innovative.

Digital leaders are now required to integrate AI-driven tools into decision-making processes, enhance operational efficiency, personalize customer experiences, and foster a culture of continuous learning and adaptability.

According to Alicia Lyttle, Chief Executive Officer and Co-Founder, AI InnoVision by aligning vision, technology, and human capital, digital leaders can create a resilient, future-ready organization capable of thriving in an increasingly intelligent economy.

“AI is critical if you want to be more productive and efficient. When we look at businesses, we evaluate to see how AI can take specific tasks, to turn them into AI solutions. It does not matter what business you are in, there are ways to integrate AI to make the business more productive, which in turn drives profits,” Lyttle said.

Lyttle said the emergence of artificial intelligence technologies has fundamentally redefined leadership in the 21st century. In a rapidly digitizing global economy, leadership is no longer confined to conventional managerial roles centred around supervision, delegation, and strategy implementation. Instead, modern digital leadership demands a dynamic understanding of AI-powered tools and platforms that are revolutionizing how businesses operate, make decisions, and engage with customers.

“AI is not simply a tool for automation; it is a transformative force that enables data-driven insights, predictive analytics, and hyper-personalized services, thereby altering the very nature of organizational leadership. At the core of digital leadership in the age of AI lies the capacity to embrace innovation, harness data intelligently, and lead teams in environments of rapid technological evolution,” Lyttle said.

Lyttle, a renowned AI strategist also known as the ‘Queen of AI’ has over two decades of experience in artificial intelligence, digital transformation and business innovation. She is confirmed as one of the speakers at the Caribbean Investment Forum, scheduled for July 29-31, 2025, at the Montego Bay Convention Centre, Montego Bay, St James.

Leaders today, she said, are expected to be visionaries who not only keep up with technological trends but also align those innovations with strategic business goals. This shift calls for a new set of competencies, including digital literacy, adaptability, ethical reasoning, and cross-functional collaboration.

“It is no longer sufficient for leaders to rely solely on traditional metrics of performance; they must now leverage AI to anticipate market changes, identify emerging risks, and uncover hidden opportunities,” Lyttle said.

Many businesses she said are unaware of how to integrate AI and smart technologies into their business. However, AI she said is not a trend, and is here to stay, so business owners can use CHAT GPT to assist them in ascertaining the relevant information they need to start the process.

“ChatGPT can significantly improve business operations by assisting with content creation, customer service, market research, and more. By leveraging its natural language processing capabilities, businesses can automate tasks, enhance communication, and gain valuable insights to drive growth and efficiency,” Lyttle said.

As a speaker, at the Caribbean Investment Forum, Lyttle will delve into the topic of ‘Digital Transformation in relation to AI and Smart Technologies for Business Development.’ She is excited to share how AI has emerged as one of the most transformative forces driving modern business growth.

“From strategic decision-making to personalized marketing and intelligent automation, AI empowers leaders to navigate complexity and seize new opportunities with confidence and precision,” Lyttle said.

The Caribbean Investment Forum (CIF) 2025 is the region’s premier platform for investors, entrepreneurs, and policymakers to connect, collaborate, and capitalize on high-growth opportunities in. The event is hosted by the Caribbean Export Development Agency, in collaboration with the European Union Global Gateway, the Ministry of Industry, Investment & Commerce, JAMPRO, and the CARICOM Secretariat. Strategic partners include Republic Bank, the Inter-American Development Bank and the Jamaica Special Economic Zone Authority.

Other confirmed speakers include, Senator the Hon. Aubyn Hill, Minister of Industry, Investment, & Commerce, Jamaica, Dushyant Savadia Founder and Chief Executive Officer, Amber Group, and Pamela Coke Hamilton, Executive Director, International Trade Centre (ITC).

Montego Bay will take centre stage as a hub of opportunity and innovation when the Caribbean Investment Forum (CIF) 2025, opens its doors from 29 to 31 July, 2025 at the Montego Bay Convention Center.

Under the theme “SMART. GREEN. CONNECTED.” the Forum will bring together a dynamic mix of investors, entrepreneurs, policymakers, and development partners to unlock new opportunities in priority sectors such as green economy transition, digitalisation, sustainable agriculture, and logistics.

Among the strategic partners championing this agenda is the European Union, whose longstanding development cooperation and strategic investments have long supported private sector growth and sustainable development across the Caribbean.

Under the banner of the European Union’s Global Gateway Programme —its flagship initiative for strengthening international partnerships – the Regional Private Sector Development Programme III (RPSDP III) stands as one of the most recent and significant EU-backed initiatives supporting the Caribbean’s economic transformation. The four-year initiative aims to strengthen the competitiveness and resilience of the Caribbean’s private sector in a sustainable way by addressing critical challenges and promoting economic growth.

Dr. Erja Askola EU Ambassador to Jamaica, Belize and The Bahamas stated that “The European Union is proud to support and collaborate with regional partners to mobilise investment in these crucial areas for growth, jobs and the Caribbean’s global competitiveness. I hope this forum will advance transformative initiatives and productive collaborations across borders..”

She added: “The Caribbean Investment Forum is more than an event – it’s a catalyst for forging meaningful partnerships, identifying viable projects, and connecting Caribbean innovation with global opportunities.”

At CIF 2025, the EU will spotlight its priority investment areas with a strong focus on green energy, digital transformation, sustainable agriculture and inclusive economic development—all vital pillars for a resilient and future-ready Caribbean.
The organisers of CIF have underscored the Forum’s role in deepening strategic partnerships and advancing shared development goals between the Caribbean and international stakeholders.

Executive Director of the Caribbean Export Development Agency, Dr. Damie Sinanan noted that “The Caribbean Investment Forum is a powerful platform to build bridges between the Caribbean and the European Union, fostering mutual growth and sustainable partnerships. We are deeply grateful for the EU’s continued support in unlocking new opportunities for innovation, trade, and investment that will empower Caribbean entrepreneurs and strengthen our shared resilience.”

The Caribbean Export Development Agency, organiser of CIF 2025, aims to leverage this momentum to forge innovative partnerships and generate additional resources to support private sector development across the Caribbean—fostering its commitment to sustainable growth and long-term prosperity in the region.

CIF 2025 welcomes the participation of investors, entrepreneurs, and change-makers, who are committed to shaping a sustainable and prosperous future for the region.

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.

The Caribbean Export Development Agency (Caribbean Export), in partnership with the Government of Canada, is proud to announce the launch of GRIT – Caribbean Women Entrepreneurs Generating Resilient and Inclusive Trade, a transformative initiative designed to strengthen the capacity of women-led businesses across the Caribbean to access regional and international markets. The project aims to foster more inclusive economic growth by addressing persistent gender gaps in trade. GRIT will work with women-led businesses and trade support institutions to build capacity, improve access to resources, and enhance visibility in key export markets.

GRIT represents the first-ever partnership between the Government of Canada and Caribbean Export, and will focus on enhancing export-readiness, boosting access to trade information and networks, and promoting gender-responsive trade policies. The project will also include regional B2B matchmaking, digital promotion support, and capacity-building of trade support institutions to better serve women entrepreneurs.

With CAD $3.16 million in funding from the Government of Canada, GRIT is a four-year initiative that provides targeted support to women-owned businesses with a particular focus on increasing exports to the Canadian market. The project seeks to address key barriers to trade, provide technical assistance and tools, and foster a gender-inclusive trade environment. GRIT will be implemented across the following Caribbean countries: Belize, Dominica, Grenada, Jamaica, Saint Lucia, Saint Vincent and the Grenadines.

The official launch event held today in Saint Lucia will be followed by a full-day export readiness workshop tailored for local women entrepreneurs and is hosted with the support of Export Saint Lucia and DHL.

“GRIT is providing targeted technical support, grants, and market intelligence to help these businesses transition to digital platforms, adopt green production methods, and meet international standards” said Dr. Damie Sinanan, Executive Director of Caribbean Export. “…initiatives like GRIT are not only about empowering women—they are about shaping the future of Caribbean trade.”

“A future where our businesses, particularly MSMEs, are positioned to navigate global complexities and seize opportunities in diversified markets”

Speaking at the launch event, the Honourable Emma Hippolyte, Minister for Commerce, Manufacturing, Business Development, Cooperatives and Consumer Affairs, emphasized the national impact of women’s economic empowerment.

“When Saint Lucian women thrive in business, our entire country benefits. This is not theory. This is a fact.” said Minister Hippolyte. “Through GRIT, we are strengthening our trade capacity, expanding our networks, and positioning Saint Lucian women to take full advantage of regional and international markets.”

“GRIT is about building bridges—between local innovation and global markets, between ambition and opportunity, and most importantly, between women-led businesses and the tools they need to thrive,” said Abebech Assefa, Counsellor (Development) and Head of Cooperation at the Canadian High Commission to Barbados. “The name ‘GRIT’ speaks to the courage, perseverance and passion that women entrepreneurs bring to their work every day.”

GRIT is part of Canada’s broader commitment to advancing inclusive economic growth and women’s empowerment across the region. Assefa noted that Canada remains steadfast in its efforts to support economic cooperation for shared prosperity by helping more women entrepreneurs contribute to their own success and that of their communities.

On 6 June, during the first High-Level Policy Dialogue with the Caribbean under the EU-LAC Digital Alliance, the European Union launched Digital Connectors Jamaica, a new initiative to foster digital collaboration between Jamaican and European companies. The EU also reaffirmed its commitment to supporting the Caribbean ahead of the hurricane season through advanced weather forecasting tools and emergency response mechanisms.

“This initiative reflects how Global Gateway delivers real opportunities for people. By connecting Jamaican startups with European and Latin American companies, we support innovation, but also create quality jobs and boost local entrepreneurship”, said Commissioner for International Partnerships Jozef Síkela. “Programmes like the Digital Accelerator turn digital cooperation into economic growth, for Jamaica, the wider Caribbean and Europe alike.”

Driving Innovation and Job Creation through Digital Connectors Jamaica

The Digital Connectors Jamaica programme, launched under the EU-LAC Digital Accelerator, promotes digital joint ventures between Jamaican startups and European private sector. Through a partnership with the Development Bank of Jamaica and Caribbean Export, Jamaican startups will have access to up to USD 50,000 in grant funding to develop and scale innovative digital solutions. These funds will complement the EU’s contribution of EUR 14 million, unlocking new opportunities for growth and international market access.

EU-Caribbean partnership on weather forecasting and climate change adaptation

The EU reaffirmed its commitment to enhance regional preparedness for extreme weather events. Ahead of the 2025 hurricane season, the EU is standing ready with satellite-based forecasting data and modelling as well as comprehensive support to early warning systems. This builds on existing cooperation with the Caribbean Institute of Meteorology and Hydrology (CIMH) and the Caribbean Emergency Disaster Management Agency (CEDMA) as well as with the Dominican Republic and Cuba. Additionally, to short-term measures, support to long-term climate adaptation capabilities will be implemented. European meteorological institutes with important presence in the region as well as the European Centre for Medium Range Weather Forecasting (ECMWF) will be involved. 

For example, ECMWF and CIMH have committed to a mutual exchange of experts and engagement with forecasting partners to bolster the capacity of CIMH to use European data and products in support of numerical weather prediction modelling and specifically for tropical cyclone tracking. 

Those efforts add to the implementation of the MoU on Disaster Preparedness and Disaster Risk Management signed in Barbados on 15 May 2024 between the European Union and the Latin America and the Caribbean region.

This announcement follows a recent call between the Prime Minister of Barbados, Mia Mottley -chair of CARICOM-, and European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, where they discussed opportunities for closer collaboration between the Caribbean and the EU, notably through Copernicus Emergency Management Service.

Background

Global Gateway

Global Gateway is the EU’s positive offer to reduce the worldwide investment disparity and boost smart, clean and secure connections in digital, energy and transport sectors, and to strengthen health, education and research systems. The Global Gateway strategy embodies a Team Europe approach that brings together the European Union and its Member States, and European development finance institutions. Together, the aim is to mobilise up to EUR 300 billion in public and private investments from 2021 to 2027, creating essential links rather than dependencies, and closing the global investment gap.

EU-LAC Digital Accelerator

The EU-LAC Digital Accelerator connects corporates and startups across the EU, Latin America and the Caribbean to co-create digital solutions to real business challenges. In its second year, the Accelerator has supported over 43 partnerships across the region. The new Digital Connectors programme marks a targeted effort to strengthen Jamaica’s role in this growing digital ecosystem.

Digital cooperation is a key pillar of the Global Gateway strategy. The EU-LAC Digital Alliance provides the framework for deepening this cooperation, bringing together investment and public policy to build inclusive and competitive digital economies.

Copernicus, emergencies and the regional Copernicus LAC Panama Centre

Copernicus is the Earth Observation component of the EU’s Space Programme. Copernicus data and value-added services in five areas – Land, Marine, Atmosphere, Climate Change, and Emergency Management (CEMS) are made available to all users free-of-charge and complete. In situations of emergency such as hurricanes, the CEMS provides timely and accurate geo-spatial information to EU partners. It was activated when hurricane Beryl stroke in June-July 2024. In addition, the EU is establishing regional Copernicus centres in Panama and Chile in partnership with the host countries. The centres develop specific regional services and transfer skills and capacities. The Copernicus LAC Panama Centre focusses, in particular, on the reduction of risks related to natural disasters (DRR) including floods, droughts and landslides.

High-Level Policy Dialogue under the Digital Alliance

The first High-Level Policy Dialogue with the Caribbean under the Digital Alliance, co-chaired by the Government of Jamaica and the European Commission in collaboration with the Government of Trinidad and Tobago, was held in Kingston, Jamaica from 5–6 June. The event gathered policymakers from both regions to explore concrete areas for digital cooperation ahead of the 2025 CELAC-EU Summit.

Source: Press and information team of the EU Delegation to JAMAICA

Photo credits: Cevan Coore

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.