Workforce & TVET Planning: Minister Sandra Husbands urged Barbadians to rethink workforce development as the island shifts from an ageing society to a fully-aged one, warning only two workers currently support each senior and calling for life-long learning, reskilling and flexible training. Food Industry & NCDs: Davidson Ishmael told food industry leaders Barbados can solve its non-communicable disease crisis, urging healthier reformulations and workplace wellness as a business and export opportunity. Tourism Industry Data: Barbados will measure tourism’s direct economic impact through an experimental Tourism Satellite Account, announced as global tour operators gathered for Connect Barbados 2026. Tourism Networking: Connect Barbados 2026 at Hilton Barbados Resort brought hotels, attractions and travel professionals together for culture-led business meetings and partnerships. Creative Arts in Schools: Government will install music production studios in secondary schools and launch a national student festival to build clear career pathways into the entertainment industry, backed by Alison Hinds and Education Minister Chad Blackman. Climate Finance Push: Barbados and the OPEC Fund launched the Vulnerability to Viability (V2V) Compact to expand affordable long-term development finance for climate-vulnerable economies, alongside a major digital transformation plan. Insurance Gaps: Economic Affairs Minister Marsha Caddle warned Barbados needs wider insurance coverage beyond credit unions—especially for housing and agriculture—to reduce the state’s burden after disasters. Credit Union Deposit Insurance: Credit union leaders welcomed the Protection of Depositors Bill as a confidence boost that brings member savings closer to parity with commercial banks. Blue Economy Knowledge Hub: CRFM, FAO and CAF launched an open-access Caribbean Blue Economy Knowledge Hub for fisheries, aquaculture and marine planning, with Barbados among participating countries.