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The Top 10 Caribbean Passports For 2026

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News Americas, NEW YORK, NY, Jan. 8, 2026: As global mobility becomes a strategic asset for investors, business leaders, and internationally mobile professionals, some Caribbean passports remain standout performers – offering a mix of travel access, tax efficiency, dual citizenship options, and personal freedom. The 2026 Nomad Passport Index (NPI), released this week by global citizenship consultancy Nomad Capitalist, ranks 199 citizenships using five weighted factors that go beyond visa-free travel to include taxation, global perception, dual citizenship acceptance and personal freedom.

While European and Middle Eastern jurisdictions dominate the global top 10 globally, with Malta in first place, followed by Greece, Ireland, and Romania near the top — several Caribbean nations continue to represent valuable passport options for those seeking international flexibility and economic opportunity.

Top 10 Caribbean Passport Rankings (2026)

Nomad Capitalist does not publish a dedicated Caribbean subset, but based on their overall 199-country index and broader passport strength data, Caribbean passports typically score solidly when evaluated alongside global benchmarks. Here’s the approximate ranking of Caribbean passports based on their relative strengths within the index and other global passport indices:

Caribbean PassportGlobal Mobility Rank (Visa-free) – Nomad CapitalistBarbados1st regionally (45th globally)St. Kitts and Nevis2nd (50th globally)Bahamas3rd (52nd globally)Saint Vincent & Grenadines4th (55th globally)Trinidad & Tobago4th (58th globally)Antigua & Barbuda5th (60th)Grenada6th (62nd globally)Saint Lucia7th (64th globally)Dominica8th (69th globally)Belize and Jamaica9th (101st globally)Guyana 10th (104th globally)

Caribbean passports have never featured in the global top 10 but their relative strength globally remains notable because:

Caribbean nations do not tax citizens on worldwide income, unlike the U.S., boosting tax efficiency scores.

Many Caribbean islands permit dual citizenship, making them attractive for global citizens.

Several, such as St. Kitts & Nevis, Dominica, Antigua & Barbuda and Grenada, offer Citizenship-By-Investment, (CBI), programs that rank well in investor criteria.

Why Caribbean Passports Matter More Than Ever

As geopolitical uncertainty grows, passports from small but strategic nations — especially Caribbean states with established CBI programs — offer more than travel perks. They are tools for wealth protection, lifestyle diversification, and global business access, particularly for entrepreneurs and investors seeking options beyond traditional Western powers.

The Caribbean’s growing role in the global mobility landscape reflects its synergy of tax-friendly citizenship frameworks, visa flexibility, and strong diaspora networks, making its passports a valuable consideration in the modern era of global citizenship planning.

Over the last 10 years, Anglo-Saxon giants like the United States, United Kingdom, Canada, and Australia never broke into the elite tier, remaining above average but failing to finish in the top five. The U.S. is currently stuck in 43rd under the weight of citizenship‑based taxation, while the U.K. has slipped to 35th as its non‑domicile regime has disappeared.

Investors and entrepreneurs are more likely to consider the United Arab Emirates and core European Union passports – headlined by Malta this year. The decade ends with a clear “barbell” strategy, as global citizens pair blue‑chip lifestyle passports with one or more efficiency passports or residencies, rather than chasing a single perfect passport.

The NPI was designed to educate aspiring global citizens about the true value of the world’s citizenships. While most indices – and most people – think of a passport only in terms of travel privileges, Nomad Capitalist recognizes that citizens of different countries deal with various requirements to pay taxes, comply with regulations, live freely, and avoid scrutiny when traveling. The NPI speaks to those seeking personal freedom and financial prosperity in a changing world by more deeply analyzing the true value of each passport.

Founded by Andrew Henderson, the original “Nomad Capitalist,” the boutique consulting firm supports over 150 high- and ultra-high-net-worth individuals each year, primarily from the United States. Since 2012, Nomad Capitalist has guided more than 1,500 clients – including numerous celebrities – from over 100 countries in obtaining second passports and citizenships, strategically relocating and building offshore wealth, and exploring pathways to legally reduce their tax burdens. 

“Over the last decade, the Nomad Passport Index has empowered the world’s entrepreneurs and investors with the best possible information, so they can find the best possible passports for global citizenship,” said Khatia Gelbakhiani, Chief Growth Officer at Nomad Capitalist. “In 2026, Malta catapulted to the top of the list because of its favorable tax climate, dual citizenship offerings, and robust civil liberties. Year after year, it has become clear that Western countries like the United States and the United Kingdom are lagging behind, as global citizens pursue the barbell strategy and weigh a wide range of attractive alternatives like Malta. Our research shows that holding multiple citizenships and residencies is no longer a luxury; it is a necessity for success in the modern world. The most successful global citizens will go where they are treated best, and Nomad Capitalist will continue to support them every step of the way.”

RELATED: Best Caribbean Passports – 2025

Better Jobs, Not Just More Visitors, Will Shape The Future Of Caribbean Tourism – World Bank

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News Americas, NEW YORK, NY: For decades, tourism has been the Caribbean’s most powerful economic engine, driving foreign exchange earnings, employment, and growth across the region. But new analysis suggests that the sector’s future success of Caribbean tourism will depend less on rising visitor arrivals and more on a fundamental shift in the quality of jobs it creates.

According to research and analysis from the World Bank, tourism’s role in the Caribbean economy is undeniable. The sector contributes a significant share of regional GDP and supports millions of jobs, making it one of the largest sources of employment across island and coastal economies. Tourism also plays an outsized role in employing women and young people, often serving as the first point of entry into the labor market.

Yet, despite its scale and importance, tourism has struggled to consistently deliver stable, high-quality employment that allows workers to build long-term economic security.

The Job Quality Gap

While tourism creates jobs at a faster pace than many other sectors, those jobs are often characterized by seasonal contracts, income volatility, and limited career progression. As a result, workers may remain economically vulnerable even when employment levels are high.

World Bank analysis examining tourism employment in select Caribbean countries shows that tourism jobs generally outperform those in primary sectors such as agriculture, but often fall short of the quality found in manufacturing and other service industries. In practical terms, this means that tourism workers may have access to benefits and acceptable working conditions, but face weaker job stability and fewer opportunities to advance.

This instability is not evenly distributed. Young workers frequently hold entry-level tourism jobs that offer experience but little security, while women – who make up a majority of the sector’s workforce – continue to face persistent gaps in earnings and job quality. Rural communities and resort-adjacent areas also tend to see lower-quality tourism employment than urban centers, reinforcing geographic inequality.

Lessons From the Pandemic

The COVID-19 pandemic exposed the structural weaknesses of tourism-led growth. Border closures and travel restrictions triggered widespread job losses across the Caribbean, leaving hundreds of thousands of workers without income almost overnight. The crisis underscored how heavily tourism jobs depend on global conditions beyond the region’s control.

For policymakers and investors, the lesson was clear: tourism growth that is not paired with workforce resilience can quickly unravel in the face of external shocks.

As the region recovers, the focus is shifting from how many visitors arrive to how tourism revenues are distributed – and whether workers can rely on tourism jobs to support households during both good times and bad.

Rethinking Tourism As A Business Strategy

From a business and economic development perspective, improving job quality in tourism is increasingly seen as a competitiveness issue. Destinations that offer better-trained, more stable workforces are better positioned to deliver higher-quality visitor experiences, adopt digital tools, and pivot toward sustainable tourism models.

The World Bank points to several policy and market-oriented approaches that could help tourism generate better jobs. These include encouraging formal employment through simplified regulations and targeted incentives, expanding vocational and skills-based training aligned with digital and sustainable tourism trends, and strengthening enforcement of labor standards.

Equally important is building stronger linkages between tourism and the wider economy. When hotels, restaurants, and tour operators source more goods and services locally – from farmers and fishers to creatives and service providers—the economic benefits of tourism spread more broadly, supporting jobs beyond the hospitality sector itself.

A Turning Point For Caribbean Tourism

The Caribbean’s natural beauty, cultural assets, and proximity to major markets ensure that tourism will remain central to the region’s economic future. But the World Bank’s findings suggest that the next phase of growth will be defined not by volume alone, but by value – particularly the value created for workers.

For governments, businesses, and investors, the message is increasingly clear: tourism that delivers better jobs is more resilient, more inclusive, and better positioned to support long-term development.

As Caribbean nations rethink their tourism strategies, prioritizing job quality may prove to be the most important investment of all – one that strengthens both the industry and the communities that sustain it.

Caribbean Remittances By Major Countries: A Lifeline Powering Economies Across The Region

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By NAN Business Editor

News Americas, NEW YORK, NY: Caribbean remittances remain one of the most powerful – and often overlooked – economic forces shaping the Caribbean today. For millions of families across the region, money sent home by relatives abroad helps pay for food, housing, healthcare, education, and small business survival. At a national level, remittances stabilize economies, boost consumer spending, and act as a buffer during economic shocks.

Windel Pierre, 41, a Haitian cab driver, sends money back to Haiti from Miami, FL. (Photo by Peter Whoriskey /The Washington Post via Getty Images)

According to regional estimates from ‘Remittances-to-Latin-America-and-the-Caribbean-in-2025-Adaptations-in-a-Context-of-Uncertainty,’ by the IDB, Caribbean nations were projected to receive approximately US $20.9 billion in remittances in 2025, underscoring the scale and importance of diaspora support across the region.

Top Caribbean Remittance Recipients

Based on country-specific estimates and global remittance rankings compiled from international development and financial data, several Caribbean nations stand out as the region’s largest remittance recipients:

CountryEstimated Annual Remittances (USD)HaitiUS $4.9 billionJamaicaUS $3.6 billionDominican RepublicUS $11,973 billionTrinidad & TobagoUS $361 millionGuyanaUS $1.4 billionSuriname US $166 millionBelize US $173 million

These figures provide a relative snapshot of remittance inflows rather than precise totals, as reporting methods vary by country. However, they clearly illustrate how deeply Caribbean economies are tied to their global diasporas.

Why Remittances Matter Beyond The Dollar Amount

While total remittance volumes tell one story, their real economic impact becomes clearer when viewed as a share of GDP.

In smaller Caribbean economies, remittances account for a substantial portion of national income. In countries such as Haiti and Jamaica, remittances have historically exceeded 20 percent of GDP, making them among the most remittance-dependent economies in the Western Hemisphere.

This level of dependence means remittances do more than supplement incomes — they help sustain national economic stability.

A Critical Social Safety Net

For Caribbean households, remittances often function as a private social protection system, filling gaps where public services or employment opportunities fall short. Families commonly use remittance income to:

Cover basic living expenses

Pay school fees and education costs

Access healthcare and medications

Repair homes after storms or disasters

Support elderly relatives

In economies where formal job markets are limited or volatile, remittances help reduce poverty and smooth consumption during economic downturns.

Diaspora Ties Drive Regional Resilience

The Caribbean’s remittance flows are rooted in long-standing migration patterns, particularly to North America. The United States remains the largest source of remittances to the Caribbean, accounting for roughly half of all inflows, followed by Canada, which contributes more than 10 percent.

These financial connections reinforce enduring social, cultural, and economic ties between Caribbean nations and their diaspora communities abroad.

A Steady Outlook Despite Global Uncertainty

Recent analyses indicate that remittance growth in the Caribbean has been moderate but steady, even amid global economic uncertainty. As labor markets in the U.S. and Canada continue to stabilize, remittance inflows are expected to remain resilient, providing ongoing support to Caribbean households and economies.

Development economists note that while remittances alone cannot replace comprehensive economic reform, they remain a critical pillar of Caribbean economic survival and resilience.

Looking Ahead

As Caribbean governments pursue growth strategies – from tourism and energy to agriculture and technology – remittances will continue to play a stabilizing role. Policies that reduce transfer costs, expand financial inclusion, and encourage productive investment of remittance income could further amplify their positive impact.

For now, the numbers are clear: the Caribbean’s diaspora is not just connected emotionally – it is economically indispensable.

REMITTANCES TO THE CARIBBEAN IN THE PAST

How Caribbean Citizenship Programs Are Helping Families Plan A Better Future

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News Americas, NEW YORK, NY, Weds. Dec. 24, 2025: Have you ever thought about settling in a place where life feels calm, systems feel clear, and planning feels manageable?  Many families think about this today while looking at stable options for travel, residence, and long-term security.  Caribbean nations continue to share positive updates around Caribbean Citizenship Programs, and these updates are creating interest because they focus on clarity, comfort, and family support.

Why Caribbean Immigration Updates Are Important Right Now

Caribbean governments are actively sharing official information related to citizenship and residency. These updates help people understand available options without confusion. The focus remains on transparency and smooth processes, which makes planning easier. Just like people prefer clear rules while choosing online services such as slot online platforms, applicants also value clarity when it comes to immigration decisions.

Family-Friendly Structures Gaining Attention

Many citizenship and residency programs in the Caribbean allow applicants to include family members. Spouses and children can often be added under one application. This approach helps families move forward together and plan their future as one unit. It gives peace of mind and keeps things organized.

Clear Guidelines Shared Openly

Authorities provide clear instructions about eligibility, documents, and timelines. This helps applicants prepare properly without stress. When information is shared openly, people feel more confident and relaxed while applying.

Citizenship By Investment Programs In The Caribbean

Citizenship by investment programs continue to receive positive attention. These programs allow individuals and families to apply for citizenship through approved contributions that support national development.

Contribution Options That Support Growth

Applicants can choose contribution paths that support public projects and development plans. These contributions help improve infrastructure and community services. It creates a balanced system where both applicants and countries benefit.

Processing Systems Improving Steadily

Recent updates highlight better application handling and organized review processes. Digital systems help keep applications structured and easy to track. Applicants appreciate knowing the status of their application at every stage, similar to how users prefer smooth and reliable platforms like slot gacor for easy access and clarity.

Transparency And Compliance Remain Strong

Caribbean governments clearly explain verification steps and legal checks. This transparency helps maintain trust and ensures that programs follow international standards.

Citizenship By Descent Options Gaining Interest

Citizenship by descent is another area where Caribbean countries continue to share helpful updates. This option is available for people with parents or grandparents connected to specific Caribbean nations.

A Meaningful Way To Reconnect With Family Roots

Many individuals living abroad are choosing this option to reconnect with their heritage. Governments provide clear guidance on required documents such as birth records and family certificates. This structured approach makes the process comfortable and respectful.

Supportive Guidance For Overseas Applicants

Clear instructions help applicants apply from outside the region without difficulty. This support reduces confusion and helps families complete applications smoothly.

Residency Pathways Across The Caribbean

Residency programs are also part of recent immigration updates. These options are designed for professionals, retirees, and individuals who want long-term living arrangements.

Residency Options For Professionals

Some residency programs support individuals who plan to work or run businesses in the region. Clear income and document guidelines help professionals plan properly before moving.

Comfortable Living Options For Retirees

Residency programs for retirees focus on stability and comfort. Caribbean countries highlight lifestyle benefits and supportive environments, making these programs attractive for long-term living.

Flexible Options For Modern Work Styles

Residency updates also reflect changing work patterns. Clear rules allow people to live in the Caribbean while working remotely. This balance supports both personal comfort and legal clarity.

How These Updates Support Applicants

Official immigration updates help applicants make informed decisions. Clear information supports better planning and removes unnecessary confusion.

Confidence Through Official Communication

When governments share verified details, applicants feel assured. This trust helps them take the next step calmly.

Better Planning For Families

Clear timelines and requirements help families manage finances and plans properly. Knowing what to expect makes the process smoother.

Building Long-Term Trust With The Region

Regular updates show commitment to transparency. This strengthens trust between applicants and Caribbean nations.

Benefits For Caribbean Nations

These programs also support national development and global connections.

Supporting Economic And Social Growth

New residents and citizens contribute to the local economy and community activities. This helps strengthen local systems.

Encouraging Cultural Exchange

Applicants bring diverse experiences and ideas, which add value to local communities and social interactions.

Strengthening Global Relationships

Well-structured immigration programs improve the region’s international standing and cooperation.

Conclusion

In the end, Caribbean citizenship and immigration updates offer clear and positive options for families planning their future. These programs focus on transparency, family inclusion, and long-term stability. With official guidance and structured systems, people can move forward with confidence and comfort. For many, this feels reassuring, practical, and well-organized, much like having clear instructions before making any important life decision.

The Setai Expands Global Footprint With New Luxury Resort In St. Maarten, The Setai St. Maarten

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News Americas, MIAMI BEACH, FLORIDA, Thurs. December 18, 2025: The Setai Hotels, one of the world’s most celebrated names in luxury hospitality and Toronto-based Altree Developments, a leader in international real estate, today announced a strategic partnership and the next chapter in its global expansion.

Vie L’Ven is evolving into its next chapter through a new partnership with The Setai, the globally celebrated hospitality brand known for its refined approach to service and design. The primary hotel will now debut as The Setai St. Maarten, a luxurious 205-key and private villas set along the pristine shores of Indigo Bay. This collaboration marks The Setai’s highly anticipated Caribbean debut and a major step in the brand’s continued growing international portfolio. Expanding beyond its established destinations in the U.S. and the Middle East, this partnership brings together The Setai’s legacy of refined hospitality with Altree’s vision for world-class residential development, merging two forces known for excellence in design, service and craftsmanship. Construction is underway, with completion expected for 2028.

​​“We are thrilled to bring The Setai to the shores of St. Maarten, a destination that perfectly complements our vision of timeless luxury and cultural inspiration,” said the Nakash Family, owners of The Setai. “This project marks an exciting next chapter for our brand as we continue to grow globally, always guided by the principles of authenticity, sophistication, and unparalleled guest experience.”

Committed to redefining Caribbean luxury, the concept for The Setai St. Maarten has been brought to life by renowned partners Studio Munge, HKS Architects and Leading Hotels of The World, all of whom have been recognized globally for their dedication to creating world-class properties.

The Resort offerings will remain anchored with signature amenities that will include a beach club with dedicated cabanas and butler service, a Les Clefs d’Or concierge team, three pools, including an adults-only oasis, a 30,000 square foot Destination Spa, tennis and pickleball courts, on-beach water sports, a children’s playroom, childcare programs and access to a protected nature reserve.

Extending this same standard of excellence to its culinary program, the resort will feature five restaurant concepts, including Ocean Grill Beach Club and Jaya, both inspired by the acclaimed culinary concepts of The Setai, Miami Beach.

Zev Mandelbaum, President and CEO of Altree Developments, shared, “From the very beginning, our vision has been to create something extraordinary for the island. Teaming up with the Nakash family to bring The Setai’s first Caribbean property to life allows us to honor St. Maarten’s beauty and distinct character while shaping a new level of hospitality for the region.”

Blending The Setai’s renowned standard of luxury with the natural beauty of the Caribbean, the resort will feature both residential and hotel accommodations. The Setai St. Maarten will offer an array of spacious one to four-bedroom layouts, spanning from approximately 620 to over 2,000+ square feet and dual key residence options expanding up to 6,000 square feet.

The debut of The Setai St. Maarten marks a defining moment for the island, introducing a level of craftsmanship and service that will position St. Maarten among the world’s most distinguished luxury destinations.

For The Setai St. Maarten sales inquiries, contact Sales Representatives:

Anne-Wytske Hoekstra (annewytske@thesetaistmaarten.com)

Shirley van der Borden (shirley@thesetaistmaarten.com)

You can also call +1-721-544-1545, visit thesetaistmaarten.com, or tour the model suite at the presentation gallery on Indigo Bay Boulevard, St. Maarten. You can find The Setai St. Maarten on Instagram and Facebook.

About Altree Developments

Altree Developments is a leader in the international real estate landscape, rooted in a 70-year multi-generational family legacy in the development industry. Under the visionary leadership of Zev Mandelbaum, Altree is redefining urban living by transforming strategic residential and commercial sites into leading destinations. With an admirable portfolio that includes ultra-luxury condominiums and expansive master-planned communities, Altree’s influence stretches across some of the most coveted addresses in Canada, America, and now, Saint Maarten. Driven by an unwavering commitment to innovation and luxury, Altree’s projects are designed to stand the test of time, offering unparalleled value and shaping the future of urban living. For more information, visit altreedevelopments.com.

About The Setai Hotels

The Setai Hotels is a collection of privately owned hotels that represent a vision of unprecedented luxury and service, with a calm and serene ambiance at the heart of each property. The hotels offer connectivity to their host cities while also creating a discreet escape and utmost privacy for its guests. Its Miami Beach flagship holds membership with The Leading Hotels of the World; is recognized as an AAA Five Diamond hotel and Michelin Guide Key holder; and has been awarded in the Condé Nast Traveler’s Readers’ Choice Awards, as well as by the coveted Forbes Travel Guide Five Star Award consecutively since 2015. In 2018, the brand introduced the luxury, sophistication and renowned service to Tel Aviv as a LHW hotel in the historic old Jaffa region, followed by a third location in the Sea of Galilee. Looking ahead, the Setai St. Maarten is anticipated to open in 2028 as a LHW property. For more information, visit thesetaihotel.com.

Caribbean Growth Outlook For 2026-2027

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By NAN Business Editor

News Americas, NEW YORK, NY, Tues. Dec. 16, 2025: The outlook for Caribbean growth for 2026 and 2027 points to a widening divide between resource-driven growth and tourism-dependent economies, according to new projections from the UN Economic Commission for Latin America and the Caribbean, (ECLAC) and the World Bank.

ECLAC forecasts average growth of 8.2% for the Caribbean in 2026, largely driven by Guyana’s continued oil expansion. The World Bank projects 5.7% growth for the broader Caribbean economies. However, when Guyana is excluded, growth across the rest of the subregion is expected to slow sharply to approximately 1.7%, underscoring the region’s structural vulnerabilities.

Guyana is projected to remain the fastest-growing economy in the Caribbean, with the World Bank forecasting 15.7% GDP growth in 2026, fueled by sustained investment in hydrocarbons. By contrast, several tourism-dependent economies face more moderate or fragile trajectories. The Bahamas is expected to experience slower growth amid relatively stagnant stayover tourism, while Jamaica may face economic contraction in early 2026 following the impact of Hurricane Melissa on tourism and agriculture.

ECLAC

ECLAC warns that the region remains highly exposed to external shocks, including slower U.S. economic growth, rising energy and transportation costs, high public debt levels, and increasing climate-related risks. While service exports are expected to remain resilient, uncertainty in global trade, commodity price volatility, and delayed interest rate cuts by major central banks pose downside risks.

The outlook reinforces the need for Caribbean economies to diversify beyond tourism, strengthen resilience, and expand into higher-value sectors such as energy, logistics, food security, and digitally delivered services.

Projected GDP Growth Rates for Selected Caribbean Economies (2026–2027)

Ranked from Highest to Lowest (2026)

RankCountry2026 Growth (%)2027 Growth (%)1Guyana23.024.32Dominican Republic4.24.43Dominica3.42.84Grenada3.42.75Suriname3.33.56St. Vincent and the Grenadines2.92.77St. Lucia2.31.98Barbados2.01.79Jamaica1.71.610Trinidad and Tobago1.33.211Bahamas1.21.312Belize1.11.1

Source: World Bank

In the Caribbean, growth is forecast at 5.8% in 2026, led overwhelmingly by Guyana’s oil sector expansion. Excluding Guyana, regional growth is expected to slow to approximately 3.1% in 2026, highlighting the increasing divergence between resource-driven economies and tourism-dependent states.

Felicia J. Persaud, CEO of Invest Caribbean, reacting to the World Bank’s Global Economic forecast data, said: “The time to invest in the Caribbean is now – and the data clearly supports it. For too long, the region has been underestimated. The numbers show a Caribbean that is resilient, investable, and increasingly central to global growth and capital flows.”

Caribbean Competition – Weak Competition Is Holding Back Growth In The Caribbean And Latin America – IDB

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By NAN Business Editor

News Americas, WASHINGTON, D.C., Mon. Dec. 15, 2025: Caribbean Competition is weak and holding back growth across the region as well as in Latin America, according to a new flagship report released by the Inter-American Development Bank, (IDB). The report, titled Markets for Development: Improving Lives through Competition, forms part of the IDB’s Development in the Americas series, which uses rigorous data and economic analysis to outline policy priorities to boost prosperity in the region.

Competition As A Driver of Growth

FLASHBACK – People travel by bus during a nationwide blackout in Santo Domingo on November 11, 2025. Santa Domingo found itself without electricity Tuesday as the Dominican Republic’s energy company announced a blackout of unspecified scope, caused by a “transmission system failure.” (Photo by Eddy Vittini / AFP) (Photo by EDDY VITTINI/AFP via Getty Images)

One of the report’s central findings is that markets in Latin America and the Caribbean are, on average, about four times more concentrated than those in advanced economies – meaning fewer dominant firms control larger portions of goods and services. This market power translates into higher markups, limited consumer choice, and slower productivity growth, according to the Bank.

If markets across the region operated with the same level of competitive intensity as in advanced economies, the IDB estimates per-capita output (GDP per person) could rise by about 11%, while income inequality might shrink by around 6%.

Strong competition is shown to benefit not only consumers through lower prices but also workers through higher real wages and expanded employment opportunities.

Business Environment Challenges

The report highlights several structural barriers that hinder competition, including:

Market Fragmentation: High logistics costs and poor connectivity within and between markets make it harder for firms to scale and compete.

Regulatory Complexity: Excessive or poorly designed regulations discourage new entrants and protect entrenched incumbents.

Weak Institutions: Many competition authorities in the region have limited resources or independence, reducing their ability to enforce fair market rules.

These conditions contribute to the so-called “missing middle” — a shortage of medium-sized enterprises that, in more competitive economies, help drive innovation and job creation.

Implications for Businesses and Consumers

For business leaders, the findings point to a pressing need for reforms that unlock competitive pressures:

Reducing red tape and simplifying market entry

Investing in infrastructure that lowers transaction costs

Strengthening antitrust enforcement and regulatory oversight

Lower market concentration could empower small and medium-sized firms to grow, broaden supply chains, and stimulate innovation across sectors such as telecommunications, banking, and health care.

Consumers in Latin America and the Caribbean currently face markups that are estimated to be higher than in advanced markets, while workers in many sectors see wages that reflect a weaker competitive environment.

Policy Priorities and Reforms

The IDB calls on governments to pursue reforms that balance regulation with competition enhancement. Priority areas include:

Modernizing competition laws

Investing in logistics and digital connectivity

Empowering competition agencies with greater independence

Streamlining business regulations to reduce barriers for new entrants

According to the report, countries that adopt such policies may attract more domestic and foreign investment, improve productivity, and create better-paying jobs.

A Roadmap For The Region’s Future

Although Latin America and the Caribbean have achieved macroeconomic stability in recent decades, long-term productivity growth has lagged behind global peers. The IDB report provides a data-driven blueprint focused on competition as a central engine for economic dynamism – offering a new lens for policymakers and business leaders seeking to unlock latent growth potential.

For markets across the hemisphere, encouraging fair competition is not just an economic ideal – it may be the most practical path to inclusive growth and heightened prosperity in the coming decade.

China – Caribbean Policy: China Deepens Caribbean Engagement With New Policy Pledges

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By NAN Business Editor

News Americas, NEW YORK, NY, Mon. Dec. 15, 2025: China has signaled a renewed and expanded commitment to the Caribbean with new China – Caribbean Policy, positioning small island states as strategic partners in its evolving Global South diplomacy, according to its newly released Policy Paper on Latin America and the Caribbean.

Chinese President Xi Jinping (L-2) speaks during a meeting with Dominica’s President Sylvanie Burton (R-2) at the Great Hall of the People on October 14, 2025 in Beijing, China. (Photo by Ichiro Banno – Pool/Getty Images)

While much global attention has focused on China’s ties with major Latin American economies, the policy document makes clear that Caribbean nations are central beneficiaries of Beijing’s long-term development, climate, and infrastructure agenda – particularly in areas where island states face acute vulnerability and capital constraints.

A Strategic Shift Toward Small Island States

China explicitly acknowledges the Caribbean’s unique status as Small Island Developing States, (SIDS), committing to tailor cooperation frameworks that reflect climate exposure, limited fiscal space, and reliance on external trade and tourism.

Rather than a one-size-fits-all approach, the policy outlines support mechanisms designed to accommodate smaller economies, including concessional financing, development assistance without political conditionality, and targeted infrastructure investment.

This positioning signals an effort by China to distinguish its engagement from traditional Western development models, which Caribbean leaders have often criticized as restrictive or slow-moving.

Climate Resilience and Disaster Response Take Center Stage

One of the most consequential pledges for the Caribbean lies in climate adaptation and disaster resilience.

China commits to expanded cooperation in:

Disaster prevention, early warning systems, and post-disaster reconstruction

Climate-resilient infrastructure

Coastal and marine ecosystem protection

Renewable energy development, including solar, wind, and hydropower

For hurricane-prone Caribbean states facing mounting reconstruction costs and insurance gaps, these pledges could translate into tangible relief if executed at scale.

China also signals openness to supporting Caribbean climate initiatives within global frameworks, reinforcing SIDS advocacy on climate finance and loss-and-damage mechanisms.

Infrastructure, Ports and Digital Connectivity

China’s policy reinforces its interest in Caribbean infrastructure — not only roads and utilities, but also ports, logistics, digital networks, and smart city development.

The document highlights cooperation in:

Transportation and port logistics

Telecommunications and digital infrastructure

Energy grids and water systems

Housing and urban development

For Caribbean economies seeking to modernize ports, reduce shipping costs, and improve regional connectivity, Chinese-backed infrastructure could play a transformative role – particularly where traditional financing remains limited.

Trade, Investment and Market Access

On the economic front, China pledges to expand trade with Caribbean nations, especially in:

Agricultural products

Specialty goods

Energy and resource-related exports

Beijing also encourages Caribbean participation in major Chinese trade expos and investment forums, offering potential market access for Caribbean exporters seeking diversification beyond North America and Europe.

Additionally, China expresses interest in expanding financial cooperation, including local currency settlements and partnerships with regional financial institutions – a move that could reduce foreign exchange pressures for Caribbean economies.

Education, Training and People-to-People Exchanges

China’s commitments extend beyond economics into human capital development.

The policy outlines:

Scholarships and training programs for Caribbean students and professionals

Cooperation in vocational education and digital skills

Media, cultural, and academic exchanges

Support for tourism cooperation and two-way travel facilitation

For Caribbean states grappling with skills shortages and youth unemployment, these programs may offer long-term workforce benefits.

Geo-political Implications for the Caribbean

China’s expanded engagement comes as Caribbean nations navigate a shifting global order, balancing longstanding ties with the United States and Europe while exploring South-South partnerships.

By emphasizing sovereignty, non-interference, and unconditional development assistance, China positions itself as an alternative partner at a time when Caribbean governments are seeking greater diplomatic and economic autonomy.

However, the scale and impact of these pledges will depend on implementation — a point regional analysts note will be critical in distinguishing policy ambition from practical outcomes.

What Comes Next

The policy paper signals intent, not timelines. For Caribbean governments, the next phase will involve translating these pledges into:

Project-level agreements

Financing structures

Transparent procurement frameworks

Sustainable debt management

If executed effectively, China’s commitments could reshape Caribbean development pathways over the next decade, particularly in climate resilience, infrastructure modernization, and economic diversification.

For now, the message from Beijing is clear: the Caribbean is no longer peripheral in China’s Global South strategy — it is firmly on the map.

Caribbean Immigrant Founder Breaks Barriers with World’s First AI Debt Capital Platform – AI Capital Exchange

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News Americas, Fort Lauderdale, FL, Tues. Dec. 2, 2205: Guyana-born, US-based Caribbean immigrant entrepreneur and media leader Felicia J. Persaud, the founder and publisher of News Americas, has quietly made history.

AI Capital Exchange, the world’s first AI-powered debt lending platform connecting institutional investors, lenders, agencies and borrowers globally, created by Felicia J. Persaud

After four months of building in silence, Persaud has soft-launched AI Capital Exchange, the first AI-powered debt capital platform in the world – built entirely by her, a non-tech founder and Caribbean immigrant.

The platform, available at aicapitalexchange.net, uses artificial intelligence to match qualified borrowers with institutional investors, lenders, and investment agencies across the U.S., Caribbean, Latin America, Europe, Africa, and Asia. It is powered by Invest Caribbean.

For the Caribbean – long restricted by limited access to financing — the launch represents a breakthrough moment.

“AI Capital Exchange is about leveling the playing field,” Persaud shared. “It proves that global innovation can come from our community — and that immigrants and non-tech founders can build world-changing technology.”

What the Platform Does

AI Capital Exchange pre-qualifies borrowers and then connects them to lenders for:
• Commercial real estate projects
• Renewable energy ventures
• Equipment financing
• Tech startups
• Business expansions
• Government and infrastructure capital

Lenders and investors can join to access verified, AI-organized deal flow. Investment agencies can showcase national investment programs to attract foreign capital.

A Caribbean Immigrant Building Global Infrastructure

What makes this launch extraordinary is the journey behind it.

Persaud — who migrated from Guyana with no coding background — built every component of the platform herself using AI tools.

“This was hundreds of hours of work, built with discipline, faith, and determination,” she said. “It is proof that where you come from does not limit where you can build.”

The platform has also been submitted to the India AI Global Impact Challenge 2026, marking its entry on the world stage.

Explore or Support The Platform

Test the platform (pilot phase): https://aicapitalexchange.net

Investors interested in supporting the platform’s growth can connect here

About Felicia J. Persaud

Felicia J. Persaud is a Guyana-born, U.S.-based journalist and media and investment entrepreneur, widely known for her groundbreaking work in Caribbean diaspora media, her advocacy for Caribbean Census recognition, and her efforts to expand investment opportunities across the region.

Jamaica Needs To Rebuild A More Resilient, Less Tourism-Dependent Economy

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An Analysis By NAN BUSINESS EDITOR

News Americas, NEW YORK, NY, Fri. Nov. 21, 2025: Jamaica now has a clearer picture of the devastation left behind by Hurricane Melissa. According to a new joint assessment by the World Bank and the Inter-American Development Bank, (IDB), the storm caused US$8.8 billion in physical damage – equal to 41% of Jamaica’s 2024 GDP and the costliest hurricane in Jamaica’s recorded history.

An aerial view shows damaged buildings in the aftermath of Hurricane Melissa in Lewis Town, St Elizabeth, Jamaica, on October 31, 2025. (Photo by RICARDO MAKYN/AFP via Getty Images)

This preliminary estimate comes from the Global Rapid Damage Estimation (GRADE) methodology, which analyzes sector-by-sector destruction. The figures do not include broader economic losses, which are expected to be substantial. That means Jamaica’s total recovery need may still approach — or exceed — the US$10 billion figure cited by Jamaican Finance Minister Dr. Nigel Clarke.

The breakdown of physical damage shows the scale of the crisis:

41% — Residential buildings

33% — Infrastructure (roads, bridges, ports, utilities)

21% — Non-residential buildings (businesses, schools, hospitals)

5% — Agriculture (though losses to farms and livestock are likely to surge over the long term)

“This disaster demands a fast, coordinated, and evidence-based response,” said IDB Vice President Anabel González. The World Bank echoed that sentiment, reaffirming its readiness to “mobilize its full range of support.”

But even with multilateral assistance, Jamaica faces a difficult truth: the country cannot rebuild its economy on the same fragile foundation that climate change is repeatedly destroying.

Climate Reality: Jamaica Cannot Depend on Tourism Alone

State Minister Alando Terrelonge, during field assessments in St. James and St. Elizabeth, stated bluntly that Hurricane Melissa “reflects the growing climate vulnerability of Small Island Developing States, (SIDS),” warning that climate-related disasters pose a “direct threat to life, property, and economic and national security.”

Tourism — Jamaica’s largest foreign exchange earner — is also its most exposed industry:

Hotels are built on vulnerable coastlines

Insurance premiums have soared beyond affordability

Storms wipe out years of investment in hours

Airline disruptions reduce arrivals

Tourism jobs vanish instantly after disasters

U.S. economic uncertainty affects visitor spending

Cruise lines dominate arrivals but deliver minimal local revenue

Jamaica, like the wider Caribbean, cannot keep rebuilding the same tourism-centric model that collapses every hurricane season.

Melissa proves: Economic diversification is no longer optional — it is a survival strategy.

So How Can Jamaica Potentially Mobilize the Funds It Needs?

Given the updated GRADE findings, Jamaica will need a layered, multi-year financing strategy. Below are realistic, responsible pathways — not guarantees — based on global best practices for SIDS and the instruments the World Bank, IDB, CDB, and partners already use.

1. Additional Multilateral Financing (Possible US$2–3B Over 3–5 Years)

The World Bank and IDB have already activated some disaster-response instruments, but the agencies publicly confirmed:

“We are ready to mobilize our full range of support.”

This could include:

expanded IDB resilience loans

new World Bank climate-resilient infrastructure windows

targeted CDB emergency programs

Green Climate Fund adaptation financing

Japan-funded disaster-risk programs (already tied to GRADE)

These would require new negotiation rounds and multi-year programming.

2. Diaspora Bonds & Investment Notes (US$500M–1B Potential)

Jamaica’s diaspora is powerful, high-earning, and deeply connected. A “Rebuild Jamaica 2030 Diaspora Bond” series is one of the most viable tools available. Even modest uptake could raise hundreds of millions.

3. Catastrophe & Resilience Bonds (US$250M–500M)

Beyond CCRIF, Jamaica could structure its own cat or resilience bonds — instruments increasingly used by climate-vulnerable countries to pre-finance future risk.

4. Public–Private Partnerships (US$500M–1B)

PPPs can accelerate funding for:

hospitals

roads and bridges

renewable energy

water and wastewater infrastructure

coastal protection

telecom upgrades

This eases fiscal pressure while modernizing infrastructure.

5. Sector-Specific Donor Windows (US$500M–1B)

Especially strong opportunities exist in:

Resilient housing reconstruction

Climate-smart agriculture and agri-tech

Tourism resilience retrofitting

Digital and creative services

Renewable energy and microgrid expansion

These areas align perfectly with donor priorities for SIDS.

Total Possible Funding Pathway: US$4–7 Billion

Not guaranteed — but achievable with coordination, diplomacy, and clear investment frameworks. The remaining gap could be covered through domestic reprioritization, private capital, and phased rebuilding.

Rebuilding Better: What Jamaica Must Do Now

Here is where we fold in the “look beyond tourism” message grounded in the official climate vulnerability framing:

1. Climate-Resilient Housing & Infrastructure

Elevated homes, stronger building codes, underground utilities, seawalls, river training, mangrove restoration.

2. Climate-Smart Agriculture & Agri-Tech

Greenhouses, aquaculture, drought-resistant crops, digital farming — reducing Jamaica’s food-import vulnerability.

3. Digital & Modern Services (Low Climate Exposure)

Animation, fintech, creative industries, remote services — sectors that continue operating even after storms.

4. Renewable Energy Independence

Solar microgrids, wind, storage, resilient energy hubs — reducing reliance on imported fuel.

5. Nearshoring & Light Manufacturing

ECLAC’s new data shows Jamaica now faces lower U.S. tariffs than Asia — a strategic opening for exports.

The Road Ahead

Hurricane Melissa marks a turning point. Jamaica must rebuild — but not back to what it was. The Government’s early damage assessments and calls from Minister Terrelonge make the message clear: Jamaica must rebuild safer, stronger, and more climate-resilient — and it must diversify beyond tourism to survive the next generation of storms.

RELATED: Jamaican Global Diaspora Pitches In: Here Are The Credible Organizations To Support Hurricane Melissa Victims