Labour & Productivity: UWI Cave Hill and HRMAB say Barbados’ productivity is slipping as the workforce shrinks, with labour force down about 2,700 in the first half of the year and productivity growth averaging just 0.8% since 2018—raising concerns for long-term expansion. Food & Animal Health: Agriculture Minister Shantal Munro-Knight and the Chief Veterinary Officer, Dr Mark Trotman, urged continued vigilance against African swine fever and other animal/foodborne threats, warning that “no outbreak” doesn’t mean the risk is gone. Private Sector Investment: The Barbados Private Sector Association backed Massy Stores’ $46m retail investment, calling it a vote of confidence and noting cost reductions on 100 essential items while monitoring cost-of-living pressures. Workforce Pipeline: UWI Cave Hill and HRMAB signed an MoU to better prepare students for the world of work, targeting management, training and retention in a service-heavy economy. Regional Business Finance: CIBC Caribbean Bank reported net income of US$167.7m for nine months to July 31, up 46%, citing revenue, loan and deposit growth plus stronger digital capabilities. Energy & Trade Links: Prime Minister Mia Mottley met Venezuela’s Acting President Delcy Rodríguez in Caracas to advance cooperation on energy, food security, tourism, trade and education exchanges. CPL & Local Economy Buzz: Barbados Tridents snapped a four-game losing streak with an eight-wicket win over St Lucia Kings, while the CPL also announced the Sir Garry Sobers Award for its Hall of Fame gala on Sept 15. Tech & Governance: TouchStar appointed Jamal Cobham as Managing Director as it pushes AI-native software and plans further international expansion, including Africa operations.