By NAN Business Editor

News Americas, NEW YORK, NY, Fri. April 24, 2026: The upcoming AfriCaribbean Trade and Investment Forum (ACTIF2026) is being positioned as a key platform to deepen trade and investment ties between Africa and the Caribbean – but a persistent challenge remains: project readiness.

Afreximbank has signed a hosting agreement with the Government of St. Kitts and Nevis for the fifth edition of the forum, scheduled for July 29–31, 2026 in Basseterre. The event is expected to bring together governments, investors, development finance institutions, and private sector leaders from across both regions.

ACTIF has emerged as a leading platform for mobilizing capital and advancing Africa–Caribbean economic cooperation. The 2025 edition resulted in five Caribbean deals totaling approximately US$291 million, while Afreximbank has approved more than US$700 million in financing across CARICOM markets in recent years.

The 2026 forum is expected to focus on identifying priority projects and accelerating execution across sectors including infrastructure, tourism, energy, and trade.

But while opportunity is expanding, access to capital is not automatic. Across the Caribbean, many projects continue to face challenges in securing financing – not due to lack of investor interest, but due to gaps in structure, financial clarity, and overall investment readiness.

Invest Caribbean CEO Felicia J. Persaud noted that “the challenge is not just access to capital – it is qualification.”

Many otherwise promising projects fail to secure funding due to gaps in financial clarity, collateral structures, and execution planning, she added.

Still others struggle to understand the differences between debt and equity financing, or the stages of capital – from pre-seed to Series A – often approaching investors without the level of structure or documentation required to support multi-million-dollar raises.

To put that into perspective, institutional lenders like Afreximbank require far more than an idea or concept. Financing consideration typically depends on a fully developed project package – including feasibility studies, ownership and governance structures, land title and regulatory approvals, detailed financial models, and clearly defined debt and equity frameworks.

Projects must also demonstrate market demand, operational readiness, environmental compliance, and realistic revenue projections backed by data.

As global institutions like Afreximbank expand their footprint in the region, the demand for bankable, well-structured projects is increasing – but the supply of investment-ready opportunities remains limited. Without that alignment, opportunities risk remaining announcements rather than funded deals, Persaud said.

ACTIF2026 is expected to play a critical role in strengthening Africa–Caribbean partnerships and advancing the concept of “Global Africa,” but translating interest into actual investment will depend heavily on the quality and readiness of projects presented.

Assess your project’s funding readiness through Invest Caribbean and AI Capital Exchange

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News Americas, NASSAU, Bahamas, Tues. April 21, 2026: Tensions between the United States and China are intensifying in the Caribbean, with The Bahamas emerging at the center of a growing geopolitical divide over infrastructure, investment, and national sovereignty.

The latest flashpoint comes as the U.S. Department of State moves to expand American investment in Caribbean infrastructure, including a $10 million initiative to support resilient port development across the region. At the same time, U.S. officials have raised concerns over The Bahamas’ decision to move forward with a major hospital project financed through a loan agreement with China’s Export-Import Bank.

U.S. Ambassador to The Bahamas Herschel Walker publicly questioned the terms of the deal on Sunday, warning that placing financing under Chinese law and jurisdiction on Bahamian soil could have implications for national sovereignty.

“We are disappointed to see this project move forward so quickly when fundamental concerns about the terms of the deal remain unaddressed,” Walker said. He added that the United States remains willing to assist The Bahamas in securing alternative financing options that align with international standards and reduce long-term risks.

The Bahamas government, however, has defended its decision, stating that it engaged with the United States over a three-year period in search of financing but did not receive a proposal that met the scale or urgency required for the project. Officials emphasized that the $195 million agreement with China is intended to address critical healthcare needs, including the construction of a 200-bed hospital in New Providence. The Bahamas and China signed a framework agreement in July 2025 for a new specialty hospital in New Providence, with the project primarily funded by a US$195 million loan from the Chinese Export-Import (EXIM) Bank. China Railway Construction Company is the main contractor for the project, with a planned 50/50 labor split between Chinese and Bahamian workers. 

China has also pushed back against U.S. concerns, describing the project in February as a “livelihood initiative” designed to improve public health and well-being in The Bahamas, while rejecting suggestions of geopolitical influence. The Chinese Embassy stated that its cooperation with The Bahamas is based on mutual respect and does not target any third party.

The dispute highlights a broader competition between the United States and China for influence in the Caribbean, particularly in key sectors such as infrastructure, energy, and security.

Adding to the regional focus, the U.S. State Department yesterday, April 20th, convened a roundtable with Caribbean port authorities and maritime industry leaders to strengthen trade, tourism, and infrastructure resilience through increased private-sector investment. During the roundtable, the State Department announced plans to provide $10 million in programming to support resilient Caribbean port infrastructure through the Caribbean Basin Security Initiative, according to a statement last night.  “The United States looks forward to continued collaboration with Caribbean partners and further strengthening our economic ties across our region,” the statement added.

For Caribbean nations, the developments underscore the delicate balance between securing critical development financing and maintaining sovereignty amid competing global interests. As both global powers deepen their engagement in the region, countries like The Bahamas are increasingly navigating complex decisions that could shape their economic and strategic future.

RELATED: US Travel Warning Issued For Trinidad and Tobago

By NAN Business Editor

News Americas, NEW YORK, NY, Mon. April 13, 2026: A global energy shock triggered by the war in the Middle East and no US-Iran peace deal is now driving Caribbean gas prices higher and raising concerns about transportation, travel, and the broader cost of living.

The price hike stems from disruptions to the global liquefied natural gas (LNG) supply chain, including reported damage to infrastructure in Qatar, a key global exporter. The fallout has flipped energy markets from expected oversupply to shortages, pushing prices up by nearly 80 percent.

For Caribbean nations heavily dependent on imported fuel, the impact is immediate and severe. Fuel prices across the region are now above $5 per gallon in most countries, with some territories exceeding $7, according to the latest data.

Belize and Barbados currently have the highest prices, at $7.27 and $7.02 per gallon respectively. Other countries facing steep costs include Haiti at $5.53, the Bahamas at $5.54, and Jamaica at $5.14.

Even traditionally lower-cost markets are feeling the pressure. Trinidad and Tobago stands at $4.34, while Suriname is at $4.88 and Cuba at $4.90.

Oil rich Guyana remains the only Caribbean nation where fuel prices are below $4, with consumers paying approximately $3.51 per gallon, reflecting its status as an oil-producing country.

Transport Systems Under Pressure

The surge is already disrupting transportation systems. In St. Kitts and Nevis, fuel prices have reached EC $19.60 per gallon or USD 5.47, pushing the country toward a potential $20 threshold. Ferry operators are beginning to shut down services as operating costs climb.

The MV Mark Twain has announced a temporary suspension of operations from April 15th, joining other vessels already halting service. Operators cite a 35 percent increase in fuel costs as unsustainable. Public frustration is rising as transport options shrink and prices climb.

Air Travel Set To Get More Expensive

The aviation sector is also feeling the strain. Regional carrier, Caribbean Airlines, has already introduced a fuel surcharge of $15 to $25 on tickets purchased from April 10 onward. The move follows a dramatic surge in global jet fuel prices, which have nearly doubled in recent weeks.

Data from the International Air Transport Association shows jet fuel prices rising to $195.19 per barrel, up 96.4 percent from the previous month. Fuel now accounts for about 50 percent of airline operating costs. Industry experts warn that higher ticket prices are inevitable as airlines attempt to offset rising expenses.

Demand Falling As Prices Rise

Globally, high prices are already beginning to reduce demand. Asian markets are cutting LNG imports, with some countries reverting to coal, raising concerns about long-term energy transitions.

For the Caribbean, however, limited alternatives mean consumers and governments have few options but to absorb the rising costs. Some governments, including those in Antigua and the Bahamas, have introduced relief measures such as subsidies and tax adjustments. Others have yet to respond, leaving citizens to bear the full impact.

Growing Economic Pressure

The rising cost of fuel is expected to ripple across Caribbean economies, increasing transportation costs, raising food prices, and putting additional strain on households. As global energy markets remain volatile, the region faces continued uncertainty in the months ahead.

RELATED: Caribbean Business News: Companies Earning Billions Globally

By NAN Business Editor

News Americas, NEW YORK, NY, Fri. March 27, 2026: The Caribbean is home to a growing number of companies generating hundreds of millions – and in some cases billions – in annual revenue, underscoring the region’s often underestimated economic strength.

A recent data snapshot compiled by Explaining The Caribbean highlights top-performing firms across telecommunications, banking, manufacturing and conglomerates – revealing a network of high-performing enterprises operating across the region.

From telecommunications giant Digicel, with estimated revenues exceeding US$2 billion, to diversified conglomerate Massy Holdings and Jamaica’s NCB Financial Group, both reporting revenues above US$2.3 billion, the data paints a clear picture: the Caribbean is not a small market – it is a multi-billion-dollar economic zone.

Top Caribbean Companies by Revenue

“The data reinforces a critical but often overlooked reality we have been reiterating since 2011: the Caribbean is not a small economic region – it is a network of multi-million and billion-dollar enterprises operating across key sectors,” said Felicia J. Persaud, CEO of Invest Caribbean and founder of AI Capital Exchange.

However, the data also highlights a deeper structural challenge.

“While established companies continue to scale, access to structured capital for new and mid-sized projects across the region remains uneven,” Persaud added. “The Caribbean is not lacking capital – it is lacking efficient access to capital. At Invest Caribbean, we see this gap every day. Strong businesses. Real projects. But limited access to structured debt capital.”

The Capital Gap

Despite strong corporate performance, many developers, entrepreneurs and growth-stage businesses across the Caribbean continue to face difficulties accessing financing – particularly for large-scale or cross-border projects.

This disconnect between revenue concentration and capital accessibility has increasingly become a defining issue for the region’s economic future.

While large, established firms benefit from existing banking relationships and internal capital flows, smaller and emerging ventures often struggle to secure funding due to risk perception, fragmented markets and limited structured lending platforms.

The AI Question

At the same time, a new challenge is emerging.

As global industries rapidly shift toward artificial intelligence and digital transformation, Caribbean companies face mounting pressure to modernize operations, improve efficiency and remain competitive on the global stage.

“The next phase of Caribbean competitiveness will not just be defined by revenue, but by how quickly companies adapt to AI and digital transformation,” Persaud noted.

“The risk is not that the Caribbean lacks strong companies – it’s that without accelerated investment in technology and innovation, the region could fall behind globally.”

While some financial institutions and telecom firms have begun investing in digital tools and automation, broader adoption across sectors remains uneven, constrained by infrastructure gaps, limited access to capital and shortages in specialized technical talent.

A Defining Moment

As the Caribbean continues to generate significant corporate revenue across key sectors, the region now faces a critical inflection point.

Bridging the gap between capital availability and access – while accelerating investment in AI and digital infrastructure – will be essential to ensuring long-term competitiveness.

Without it, the region risks remaining a collection of strong legacy companies rather than evolving into a fully integrated, innovation-driven economic powerhouse.

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News Americas, NEW YORK, NY, Sat. Mar. 21, 2026: Are you noticing more small businesses growing in cities across the United States and thinking about who is behind this steady rise?

In 2026, recent trends show that Caribbean immigrants are playing a strong and positive role in shaping small business growth, especially in key urban areas where diverse communities continue to expand.

The Rising Impact Of Caribbean Immigrants on US Business

Recent economic updates in 2026 highlight that immigrant-led businesses continue to grow across the United States, with Caribbean entrepreneurs contributing actively in cities like New York, Miami, and Atlanta. Their businesses are becoming an important part of local economies, supporting both community needs and economic activity.

Strong Contribution Through Consistent Effort

Caribbean immigrants are known for their steady and focused approach to business. Many start with small setups and gradually expand by maintaining quality and building trust with customers. This consistent effort is helping them establish long-term stability in competitive markets.

Their businesses often reflect a strong sense of responsibility towards family and community, which helps them stay motivated and committed to growth.

Growth Across Multiple Business Sectors

In 2026, business activity among Caribbean immigrants is spreading across different sectors, showing a balanced and healthy pattern of growth. This wide participation is helping strengthen small business networks in many regions.

Expanding Into Diverse Industries

Caribbean entrepreneurs are active in various industries, including food services, beauty and wellness, retail, and local services. Food businesses are especially gaining attention, offering authentic Caribbean flavors that attract both local customers and visitors.

In several neighborhoods, these businesses work together like an Orb, where different services support each other and create a connected local economy. This kind of setup helps small businesses grow together instead of competing in isolation.

Positive Influence On Local Economies

Recent observations show that Caribbean-owned businesses are contributing positively to local economic activity. Their growth is creating more opportunities and increasing business movement within communities.

Creating Jobs And Supporting Local Activity

As these businesses expand, they are creating employment opportunities and supporting local spending. This leads to more active neighborhoods where businesses and customers both benefit.

Local areas with strong Caribbean business activity are seeing steady development, as more services become available and more people participate in economic activity. This creates a stable and supportive environment for further growth.

Innovation And Fresh Business Approaches

Caribbean entrepreneurs are also introducing fresh ideas into the business space. By combining traditional knowledge with modern practices, they are building unique and attractive business models.

Blending Culture With Modern Service

Many Caribbean-owned businesses offer services that mix cultural identity with modern customer expectations. Restaurants, for example, present traditional dishes in ways that appeal to a wider audience. Service-based businesses focus on personal attention, which helps build strong customer connections.

This balance helps these businesses stand out and maintain steady growth over time.

Building Strong Community Connections

Community connection continues to be one of the strongest factors behind the success of Caribbean entrepreneurs in the United States.

Trust And Long-Term Customer Relationships

Caribbean business owners often focus on building trust through friendly service and honest interaction. Customers feel valued and respected, which encourages repeat visits and long-term loyalty.

Many of these businesses also take part in local events and community activities, which strengthens their connection with the people they serve. This close relationship helps maintain stability and ongoing growth.

Cultural Identity Supporting Business Success

Caribbean immigrants bring their cultural identity into their work, which adds a unique touch to their businesses and attracts a diverse customer base.

Sharing Culture Through Everyday Business

Through food, services, and customer interaction, many businesses introduce Caribbean culture to a wider audience. This creates a positive experience for customers and helps build cultural understanding.

This cultural exchange also supports business growth, as customers enjoy the unique experience and continue to return.

Future Outlook For Caribbean Entrepreneurs In The US

Looking ahead in 2026, the role of Caribbean immigrants in small business growth is expected to remain strong. Continued support from communities and increasing interest in diverse services are creating more opportunities.

Continued Growth With New Energy

Younger entrepreneurs are entering the business space with fresh ideas while maintaining strong cultural values. This combination is helping expand business opportunities and reach new audiences.

With steady progress and strong community support, Caribbean immigrants are expected to continue contributing positively to small business growth across the United States.

Final Thoughts

In 2026, Caribbean immigrants are clearly shaping small business growth in the United States through steady effort, cultural influence, and strong community connections, helping create a positive and active business environment across many regions.