Cost of Living Pressure: Barbados Chamber of Commerce and Industry president Paul Inniss says businesses are pushing for practical fixes to structural costs like import costs, energy prices and logistics, calling for tighter collaboration between Government and the private sector. Energy & Power Bills: The Fair Trading Commission approved three synchronous condensers for Barbados Light & Power Company, with no immediate rate rise but a warning that costs could flow through in a future review as the grid supports more renewables. Clean Power Project Update: Government says a ruling on the tariff for a $350m Harrow hybrid energy plant is expected by Sept. 15, clearing the way for construction after delays in the Fair Trading Commission process. Customs Crackdown: Customs seized 12 firearms, ~900 rounds of ammo and nearly 1,000kg of plant material (about Bds$8m street value), alongside drugs and tactical items, as officials warn smugglers are getting more sophisticated. St Lucy Water Relief & Treatment: Prime Minister Mia Mottley extended basic water rate relief for St Lucy residents until a filtration system is installed, after delays; the BWA says discoloured water is safe to drink while mains replacement and an advanced treatment plant move ahead. Agriculture Contracts: Agriculture Minister Shantal Munro-Knight says purchase agreements with major retailers will be expanded to help farmers boost production and exports, with BADMC and Export Barbados supporting agro-processing growth. Regional Business & Trade: Barbados and Venezuela signed a joint declaration to deepen cooperation across energy, food security, education, tourism and transport, including plans for a technical working group and maritime cargo route. Tourism & Hospitality: North American Blue Energy Partners (NABEP) appointed Sara Chouraqui as General Counsel as it prepares for growth and new partnerships. Media Industry Signal: St Vincent’s Searchlight newspaper will cease publication after 31 years, highlighting ongoing financial strain on Caribbean newsrooms.