AGP Executive Report

World Cup Broadcast Push: Rush Sports (CPSL) says it’s building a “whole experience” for the 2026 FIFA World Cup across 13 Caribbean markets, carrying all 104 matches in 12 territories and splitting coverage in Jamaica with TVJ. Climate & Coastal Risk: Barbados is seeing out-of-season coastal erosion linked to unusual freshwater surges from South America, while the fisheries division tested hurricane readiness through a nationwide drill to relocate vessels. Food & Farming Pressure: A severe feed and forage crisis is hitting livestock farmers as pasture fires burn grazing lands and hay prices reportedly double, and farmers are also being pushed to adapt as drought conditions worsen. Barbados-Canada Business Links: Prime Minister Mia Mottley strengthened Barbados-Canada ties in Toronto, with talks spanning logistics, maritime research, insurance, and energy security. Offshore Oil Negotiations: Government has launched 2026 offshore direct negotiations, offering 19 ultra-deepwater blocks and citing seismic survey potential of up to 13+ billion barrels of oil and 40+ trillion cubic feet of gas, alongside tougher climate and methane stewardship requirements. Research for Policy: A new initiative aims to put scientific research at the centre of national policymaking, with a symposium focused on sustainable blue and green economies and better data-sharing for climate decisions. Tourism Industry Moves: Caribbean tourism leaders unveiled new initiatives including CTO TV, while Barbados continues to position itself in regional tourism planning.

Barbados Energy: Government has kicked off its 2026 offshore direct negotiations, offering 19 ultra-deepwater blocks and citing potential reserves of up to 13+ billion barrels of oil and 40+ trillion cubic feet of gas, while saying bidders must meet tougher climate and methane standards. Power Costs: Barbados Light & Power says the Fair Trading Commission’s approval will mean only a modest average monthly electricity bill rise of $1.25, tied to continued temporary generator recovery, with any change expected no earlier than September. Renewables Push: St. Kitts and Nevis launched a roadmap process toward 100% renewable electricity generation, backed by the EU and UNDP, targeting major emissions cuts by 2030. Tourism & Trade: Caribbean Week in New York 2026 is bringing regional tourism ministers together under “One Caribbean: Infinite experiences,” as the sector reports strong stayover gains. Food Systems: Youth and civil society across several islands are calling for a ban on ultra-processed food marketing in and around schools. Skills & Training: HEART/NSTA Trust digitised three Level Two TVET courses under a CARICOM pilot, expanding access via its Moodle platform. Agriculture Support: Barbados is moving to boost farm output in Christ Church with new water mains, plus help on pests and farm theft. Caricom Mobility: A Bermuda lawyer warns that a “possibly non-negotiable” Caricom treaty provision could undermine Bermuda’s immigration rules if it becomes a full member.

Offshore Energy Push: Barbados has launched its 2026 offshore direct negotiations, offering 19 ultra-deepwater blocks and saying seismic work points to potential reserves of 13+ billion barrels of oil and 40+ trillion cubic feet of natural gas, with pre-qualification running until Sept. 1 and bidders expected to meet tougher climate and environmental standards. Energy Transition Debate: Acting PM Kerrie Symmonds says the renewable transition could cost more than US$2bn, while the Barbados Consumer Empowerment Network warns that rented diesel generation may stabilise supply but won’t deliver structural transformation without grid upgrades. Electricity Costs: BL&P says the Fair Trading Commission’s approval will mean a “modest” US$1.25 average monthly bill increase, likely not before September, tied to continued and expanded temporary generation. Food & Farming Support: A major farm support plan in Christ Church targets irrigation, pest control and farm theft, including new water mains for dozens of farmers. Food Security Investment: CARICOM private sector leaders say agriculture needs clearer, investor-ready business cases and logistics support to unlock private capital. Skills & Training: HEART/NSTA Trust digitised three Level Two TVET courses under a CARICOM pilot, expanding access via its Moodle platform. Tourism & Hospitality: Royalton Vessence Barbados officially opens on the Platinum Coast with a new adult-oriented all-inclusive concept, while LIAT Air and Air Caraïbes sign an interline deal to make Caribbean-Europe connections easier.

Offshore Energy Push: Acting PM Kerrie Symmonds says Barbados is starting direct negotiations for offshore oil and natural gas after seismic surveys pointed to potential reserves of 13+ billion barrels of oil and 40+ trillion cubic feet of gas, even as the government keeps renewables and natural gas as a “bridge” in its energy transition. Power Costs Watch: The Fair Trading Commission has approved BL&P’s recovery of temporary rental generator costs, with the utility saying it means a modest $1.25 rise to average monthly bills, likely not before September. Food Security & Farming Support: CARICOM private sector leaders want more clarity to unlock private investment in food security, while Barbados’ agriculture ministry is rolling out a major farm support plan in Christ Church with new water mains, pest help, and action against crop theft. Skills & Training Upgrade: HEART/NSTA Trust digitised Level Two TVET courses (waxing, tiling, and baking/cake tech) for delivery across participating institutions under a CARICOM pilot. Tourism & Hospitality: Royalton Vessence Barbados officially opens on the Platinum Coast with a new adult-oriented all-inclusive concept, while Elite Island Resorts appoints Melissa Alexander as director of group sales. Regional Advocacy: Youth and civil society groups are calling for urgent action to ban harmful ultra-processed food marketing around schools across several Caribbean islands. Digital Services in Health: The Queen Elizabeth Hospital is advancing a major digital overhaul to modernise patient records and improve service delivery.

Energy & Investment: Barbados is moving toward offshore oil and gas exploration, with Acting Prime Minister Kerrie Symmonds saying drilling could start as early as next year. The 2026 Offshore Direct Negotiations Programme will license 19 offshore blocks, aiming to boost national revenue, strengthen energy security, and cut reliance on imported fuel. Power Costs: The Fair Trading Commission’s approval will mean a “modest” $1.25 rise in the average monthly electricity bill for BL&P customers, with any impact expected no earlier than September. BL&P says the ruling covers recovery of temporary generator costs already in use and adds extra capacity to support reliability through 2027. Tourism & Hospitality: Royalton Vessence Barbados has officially opened on the Platinum Coast as Royalton’s first Barbados property and the global debut of its Vessence concept, positioning the adult-oriented resort around wellness, culture, and immersive stays. Regional Tourism Push: Caribbean Week in New York 2026 is underway, with CTO-led discussions focused on connectivity, resilience, and keeping the Caribbean competitive. Aviation Connectivity: LIAT Air and Air Caraïbes have signed an interline agreement to let travellers book smoother connections on one ticket, with luggage checked through to the final destination. Labour Market Transparency: Opposition Senator Ryan Walters is urging Government to publish where Barbados faces labour and skills deficits to guide better decisions on imported labour. Sports Hosting: Cricket West Indies has confirmed Barbados will host the final two ODIs of the 2026 home series against New Zealand, in a Guyana-Barbados cost-sharing arrangement. Hurricane Preparedness: Barbados Meteorological Services is warning that even with forecasts of a quieter season, rapid intensification means residents should not lower their guard.

New Resort Opening: Royalton Hotels & Resorts has opened Royalton Vessence Barbados on the Platinum Coast, debuting its adult-oriented Vessence brand with 220 suites, 17 dining options, swim-out categories, Diamond Club butler service, and cultural programming at The Studio. Aviation & Connectivity: LIAT Air and Air Caraïbes signed an interline agreement to let travellers book both airlines on one ticket, check luggage through to the final destination, and connect across the English/French-speaking Caribbean via Antigua and onward to Europe through Paris. Regional Tourism Push: Caribbean Week in New York 2026 kicked off with record attendance of tourism ministers and commissioners under “One Caribbean: Infinite Experiences,” including a keynote dinner for Caribbean Women in Tourism Leadership. Port & Maritime Legacy: Antigua and Barbuda’s Port Authority paid tribute to late Senator Mary-Clare Hurst, crediting her with driving reforms during a difficult period for the port system. Healthcare Modernisation: Queen Elizabeth Hospital is rolling out a digital overhaul and major capital works, including a new linear accelerator that has already delivered 1,500 cancer treatments locally. Weather Watch: Barbados meteorology and emergency officials urged residents not to relax despite forecasts of a quieter hurricane season, warning one storm and rapid intensification can still bring major damage. Capital Markets: Abaxx Technologies closed its upsized $69m bought deal offering to fund its Singapore exchange/clearinghouse build-out and digital infrastructure.

Regional Justice & Business Confidence: OHADAC and the OECS will officially launch the OHADAC–CARO training programmes on arbitration and ADR in the Eastern Caribbean on Wednesday, 10 June, aiming to make commercial dispute resolution more predictable and accessible for investors and businesses. Tourism & Hospitality Investment: Royalton Vessence Barbados has opened on the Platinum Coast as the first Barbados property for the new Vessence brand, bringing 220 suites, 17 dining options, swim-out categories, and cultural programming—another push for experience-led stays. Caribbean Week in New York (Industry Push): The Caribbean Tourism Organization kicks off Caribbean Week in New York 2026 today under “One Caribbean: Infinite Experiences,” with Barbados tourism leadership and a full slate of marketing and leadership sessions, including a keynote on airline trends. Youth Health & Regulation: Caribbean youth advocates warn that vaping is spreading fast, with easy access and flavours masking nicotine risks—calling for policymakers to move quicker. Education & Credentials Watch: Ghana’s tertiary regulator GTEC has flagged 70 unrecognised institutions, warning students and employers to verify qualifications—an issue with regional knock-on relevance. Media Industry Loss: Tributes continue for veteran journalist George Hall, with Barbados Broadcasting Authority chair Allyson Leacock among those honouring his editorial legacy.

Tourism & Hospitality: Royalton Vessence Barbados has officially opened on the Platinum Coast, bringing 220 suites, 17 dining concepts, a spa/fitness offering, and cultural programming designed to deepen the “sense of place” experience for adult travellers. Caribbean Tourism Strategy: Caribbean Week in New York 2026 kicks off today under “One Caribbean: Infinite Experiences,” with Barbados Tourism Minister Ian Gooding-Edghill leading the delegation and Henry Harteveldt set to keynote on airline trends shaping Caribbean airlift. Education Integrity: Ghana’s GTEC has warned the public about 70 unrecognised tertiary institutions, urging due diligence since certificates may not be accepted for academic or employment purposes. Youth Health Policy: Caribbean youth advocates are sounding alarms over a vaping surge, pointing to easy access, youth-targeted flavours, and the risk that “nicotine-free” products can still normalise vaping. Finance & Business: Butterfield’s $1.8b acquisition of CIBC Caribbean is being positioned as a major regional banking and wealth-management expansion, while Barbados’ Prime Minister Mia Mottley pushes for inclusive growth of 3–5% with stronger private-sector leadership. Energy & Power Costs: Barbados’ Fair Trading Commission approved BLPC’s request to recover rental generator costs via the Fuel Clause Adjustment, likely lifting electricity bills. Port & Industry: Barbados Port Inc. marks 65 years of operations, and Roberts Manufacturing’s listing on the Barbados Stock Exchange is hailed as a milestone for local business momentum.

Caribbean Week in New York: Tourism ministers and commissioners from across the region are converging in Manhattan for Caribbean Week 2026, with Barbados Tourism and International Transport Minister Ian Gooding-Edghill leading the delegation and Governor Albert Bryan Jr. set to open the programme under “One Caribbean: Infinite Experiences.” Airlift & marketing push: Henry Harteveldt will keynote the Caribbean Marketing Conference on June 3, focusing on airline trends, air connectivity and how destinations can protect market share amid shifting capacity and route strategies. Barbados tourism connectivity: JetBlue is set to fly daily nonstop from New York (JFK) to Barbados, positioning the island as a convenient, full-experience destination for beach, food and culture travellers. Port of Bridgetown expansion: Berth 6 has been commissioned, with Barbados Port Inc. citing major investment and upland container yard expansion to strengthen trade, logistics and cruise capacity. Energy cost pressure: The Fair Trading Commission approved BLPC’s request to recover temporary generator rental costs through the Fuel Clause Adjustment, with immediate effect. Climate & resilience: CDEMA warned of severe flash flood risks even with a below-average hurricane outlook, as drought and extreme rainfall patterns continue to stress agriculture and infrastructure. Heritage spotlight: Five Barbadians were honoured with the Fielding Babb Heritage Recognition Award as Heritage Month 2026 begins.

Port & Logistics: Barbados Port Inc. marked 65 years of service and commissioned Berth 6, now operational since December 2025, with expansion works including a 9.4-acre container yard package—aimed at boosting trade, logistics and cruise capacity. Energy Regulation: The Fair Trading Commission approved BLPC’s request to recover costs for additional temporary rental generators via the Fuel Clause Adjustment, with immediate effect—meaning higher electricity bills for consumers. Housing & Construction: Government says more than $110m will go into 229 residential units over about 18 months, with construction timelines and procurement frameworks set to speed delivery. Banking Deal: Butterfield agreed to acquire CIBC Caribbean in a US$1.79b transaction, creating a larger regional banking group and targeting full ownership pending approvals. Tourism & Aviation: Caribbean Week in New York returns June 1, with Barbados Tourism and International Transport Minister Ian Gooding-Edghill leading, plus aviation analyst Henry Harteveldt set to keynote on airline trends and airlift opportunities. Climate & Agriculture: CDEMA warned of severe flash-flood risks despite a below-average hurricane outlook, while dairy farmers urged faster adaptation as heat and drought strain milk production. Local Industry & Finance: Roberts Manufacturing’s Barbados Stock Exchange listing was hailed as a milestone for growth and investor engagement, and Seiveright warned cash-only businesses risk falling behind as digital payments expand. Marine Planning: A branded “moving classroom” bus is rolling out to bring the Barbados Marine Spatial Plan into communities and boost public participation.

Stock Market & Manufacturing: Barbados Stock Exchange listing for Roberts Manufacturing is being hailed as a major milestone, with Minister Ryan Straughn calling it a vote of confidence and a new chapter for expansion, innovation and investor engagement. Economic Growth Push: Prime Minister Mia Amor Mottley is urging business leaders to help drive inclusive growth of 3–5%, pointing to major projects and branded hotel plans as the country pushes to become more resilient and competitive. Banking Deal: Butterfield has agreed to acquire CIBC Caribbean in a US$1.79b deal, aiming to create a regional banking and wealth platform with about US$29b in assets, with completion targeted for the first half of 2027. Port & Logistics: Berth 6 at the Port of Bridgetown was commissioned, with officials saying it’s already adding value and supporting trade, logistics and cruise tourism, alongside an upland container yard expansion. Climate & Flood Readiness: CDEMA is warning of severe flash flood risks despite a below-average hurricane outlook, urging whole-of-society preparation. Marine Awareness: A branded “moving classroom” bus is rolling out to bring the Barbados Marine Spatial Plan into communities. Agriculture Under Pressure: Dairy farmers are pushing for adaptation as heat and drought threaten milk production, while calls grow to modernise dairy rebate systems. Youth Sports Development: Roberts Manufacturing’s partnership with the Barbados Cricket Association is set to support Under-13 to Under-19 cricket, including girls’ participation.

Port & Housing Push: Barbados’ housing pipeline gets a major boost with plans for 229 residential units in the Affordable Housing Programme, with construction expected to start in August and an 18-month delivery target. Trade & Logistics: The Port of Bridgetown formally commissions Berth 6, now operational since December 2025, with expansion works valued at $213.5 million and added container yard space—aimed at strengthening trade, logistics and cruise tourism. Dairy Under Pressure: Farmers warn worsening heat and drought are already hitting milk production; Pine Hill Dairy’s forum heard calls for cooling and shade solutions, while dairy stakeholders also push for a rebate system overhaul as uptake remains low. Agriculture Security: The Ministry of Agriculture renews its fight against praedial larceny, describing organised crop theft and stressing multi-pronged patrols, tracing and market controls. Regional Finance Deal: Butterfield agrees to acquire CIBC Caribbean Bank (91.7%) in a landmark $1.794b transaction, with Barbados set to remain the regional headquarters—potentially reshaping cross-border banking and wealth services. Tourism Tech & Sports: PadsPass’ CEO will speak at Caribbean Week on pet-friendly travel compliance, while Cricket West Indies confirms the 2026 home season schedule with matches including Barbados’ Kensington Oval.

Dairy Under Pressure: Farmers and agri experts warn Barbados’ worsening heat and drought are already cutting milk output, pushing calls for shade, cooling systems and better use of existing rebates. Policy & Incentives: A separate dairy forum says the 40% rebate for housing components since 2024 is underused, with officials urging farmers to tap incentives for environmental controls. Housing Delivery: Barbados’ Affordable Housing Programme is set to roll out 229 residential units in its initial phase, with precast construction chosen for speed and resilience. Banking Deal: Butterfield has agreed to buy CIBC Caribbean’s 91.7% stake in a US$1.794b deal, with Barbados set to remain the regional headquarters as the combined platform targets cross-border and digital growth. Regional Development: CDB and the World Bank launch a joint action plan focused on resilience, jobs tracking, and a connectivity/logistics study to unblock intra-Caribbean trade. Cricket & Youth: BCA’s new partnership with Roberts Manufacturing backs youth cricket from U-13 to U-19, with a push for both boys and girls. Tourism Tech: PadsPass CEO Lauren Anders Brown will speak at Caribbean Week NYC on pet-friendly travel compliance. Manufacturing Expansion: Sanmerna Paper Products seeks land near Kingston’s port to expand capacity and re-enter export markets. Identity & Security: MotionAnalytics and SecureAuth highlight fast-growing biometric and AI identity governance trends across borders.

Banking Deal: Butterfield has signed a definitive agreement to buy CIBC Caribbean Bank’s 91.7% stake in a landmark US$1.794b transaction, creating a roughly US$29b banking and wealth platform and keeping CIBC Caribbean’s Barbados HQ in place. Regional Finance & Resilience: The CDB and World Bank launched a joint action plan to strengthen Caribbean development and resilience, including portfolio reviews, tracking employment outcomes, and a connectivity and logistics study to tackle trade and transport barriers. Insurance & Tourism Risk: Prime Minister Mia Amor Mottley warned at IDB Invest Sustainability Week that Middle East-driven inflation and a looming insurance crisis could hit tourism financing and competitiveness within 5–10 years. Agriculture & Food Security: Barbados rolled out the Agricultural Statistics Platform to improve farm coordination, cut the $80m food import bill, and reduce over-importation by sharing what’s planted, where, and when. Farming Support: BADMC also launched a data platform to help farmers plan production and manage gluts and shortages, while the agriculture minister pushed stronger action against praedial larceny. Trade & Travel Facilitation: BIBA welcomed passport-free Barbados–Guyana travel using national ID cards, calling it a boost for business and regional integration. Sports Media & Cricket: RUSH Sports secured FIFA World Cup 2026 media rights across much of the Caribbean, and CWI confirmed the 2026 home season schedule with Barbados hosting the final two New Zealand ODIs.

Banking Deal: Butterfield has signed a definitive agreement to acquire CIBC’s 91.7% stake in CIBC Caribbean Bank in a US$1.8b transaction, creating a larger banking and wealth platform with about US$29b in assets and keeping CIBC Caribbean’s Barbados regional headquarters. Insurance & Risk: Prime Minister Mia Amor Mottley warned of a looming Caribbean insurance crisis in the next 5–10 years, saying rising climate risk could make insurance unavailable and threaten tourism-linked lending. Manufacturing Finance: IDB Invest approved up to US$30m for Trinidad Tissues Limited to expand manufacturing, logistics, and working capital, with growth into Jamaica, Guyana and Barbados. Agriculture Data: Barbados’ BADMC launched a data-driven Agricultural Statistics Platform to improve coordination, support harvest forecasting, and help cut the $80m food import bill; the ministry also links it to reducing over-importation. Farming Security: Agriculture Minister Shantal Munro-Knight said efforts to curb praedial larceny will include closer police collaboration. Regional Mobility: BIBA welcomed a passport-free Barbados–Guyana travel arrangement using secure national IDs. Cricket & Tourism Demand: Cricket West Indies unveiled the 2026 home season vs Sri Lanka, New Zealand and Pakistan, with Barbados co-hosting the New Zealand ODIs after logistical issues in Guyana. Climate Outlook: A regional forum in The Bahamas will review the 2026 wet and hurricane season outlook and how climate information can better support agriculture, water, tourism and disaster planning.

Cricket & Tourism: Cricket West Indies has confirmed its “WI OUTSIDE!” 2026 men’s home schedule, with Barbados set to host the final two New Zealand ODIs at Kensington Oval (July 19 and 21) after the first three are staged in Guyana; the wider season also includes Tests vs Sri Lanka (June 25, July 3) and Pakistan (July 25–29 and Aug 2–6 in Trinidad & Tobago). Agriculture & Food Security: Agriculture Minister Shantal Munro-Knight says the fight against praedial larceny is intensifying, with closer work with police, while the Barbados Agricultural Statistics Platform is being rolled out to curb over-importation by improving data on what’s planted, where, and when—aimed at reducing 80–100 million kg of primary produce imports annually. Jobs & Wages: Government will launch the Survey of Employment, Earnings and Hours (SEEH) on June 1 to collect employer-sourced wage, hours and employment-condition data for fairer, more transparent wage policy. Investment & Energy Transition: Caribbean Strategic Advisors and Proven Wealth (Barbados) have formed an alliance to build a regional investment platform linking capital to infrastructure, energy transition and productive-sector projects. Regional Integration: CARICOM digital ID travel is set to begin July 1, letting Guyanese and Barbadians travel using e-ID cards instead of passports. Regional Business Support: A national MSME survey warns Barbados’ small business sector still lacks the targeted financing support needed for sustained growth, exports and resilience.