AGP Executive Report

CPL (Business & Tourism): Sunil Narine’s 4/12 and Nicholas Pooran’s 59 powered Trinbago Knight Riders to a 35-run win over Barbados Tridents at Kensington Oval, keeping TKR’s slim playoff hopes alive while Tridents remain rooted at the bottom. Women’s CPL: Shikha Pandey’s 3/17 helped TKR beat defending champions Barbados Tridents by 21 runs in the WCPL opener, with Yastika Bhatia scoring 35 on debut. Air Connectivity: Barbados is set to boost Gulf Cooperation Council travel this winter with a new British Airways daily London Gatwick–Barbados service from Oct. 25 and Virgin Atlantic’s Manchester–Barbados seasonal return from Oct. 26 to Mar. 19. Health Systems: Barbados’ digital health records rollout is moving forward under a Health Services Resilience Programme, with officials stressing access protections for elderly, rural and disabled patients plus cybersecurity and climate-disaster risks. Youth & Jobs: The Barbados Police Service and King’s Trust International Team Programme launched a 12-week development cohort for 17 young people aged 16–24, aiming at education, work and entrepreneurship pathways. Reparations Agenda: Jamaica’s National Council on Reparations is preparing a landmark slavery-reparations petition for King Charles, with advocates linking the push to upcoming Caribbean reparations discussions in Barbados.

Air Connectivity Boost: Barbados is set to widen access for Gulf Cooperation Council travellers this winter, with British Airways launching a new daily London Gatwick–Barbados service from Oct. 25, 2026, and Virgin Atlantic resuming Manchester–Barbados from Oct. 26, 2026 to Mar. 19, 2027, supported by airline partnerships via London and Riyadh/Jeddah. Health Systems & Inclusion: As Barbados digitises health records under the Health Services Resilience Programme, officials say governance and patient access protections are being built in so elderly, rural and disabled groups aren’t left behind, with climate risks also flagged. Hospital Upgrade Focus: A QEH/Enmore expansion consultation highlights needs for more beds, lab capacity, cancer treatment resources and a dedicated burn unit, with US$175m in development bank financing expected over 3–4 years. Local Business & Consumer News: Fenty Beauty has launched a new Pro Filt’r Fluid Flex Foundation in Barbados Duty Free stores, adding 50 shades and new undertone options. Community & Youth: The Barbados Police Service and King’s Trust International Team Programme has started a 12-week development cohort for 17 young people aged 16–24, aiming at education, jobs and entrepreneurship. Sports (CPL): Trinbago Knight Riders kept playoff hopes alive with a win over Barbados Tridents, while Tridents’ home opener in the Women’s CPL ended in a defeat to Knight Riders. Maritime Incident: Two Barbadian fishermen were rescued at sea and are being coordinated for safe return after more than a week adrift.

Health Digitisation Safeguards: Barbados is consulting on the digital rollout of health records under the Health Services Resilience Programme, with officials stressing access protections for elderly, rural and disabled patients, plus governance and cybersecurity roles as climate risks threaten hospital IT. QEH Expansion Priorities: The Queen Elizabeth Hospital’s US$175m expansion is expected to add a dedicated burn unit, more beds, lab capacity and cancer services after officials warned burn victims have previously been airlifted overseas. Youth to Work and Entrepreneurship: Seventeen young people have started a 12-week Barbados Police Service and King’s Trust International Team Programme aimed at moving participants into school, jobs or entrepreneurship and steering them away from crime. Road Repairs Drive: Transport Minister Kirk Humphrey announced a major pothole patching and road repair programme starting in northern parishes, with private sector support and staged work after utility upgrades. Regional Reparations Conference: Barbados will host the third CARICOM Regional Conference on Reparations (Sept 17–19) to advance the reparatory justice agenda and cooperation. CDB Procurement Scholarships: The Caribbean Development Bank is inviting applications for two fully funded public procurement master’s scholarships in Italy (deadline Oct 3). Fenty Beauty Launch: Fenty Beauty’s new Pro Filt’r Fluid Flex Foundation with 50 new shades is now available at select Bridgetown Duty Free stores. CPL Cricket Focus: Barbados Tridents coach Trevor Penney says the franchise remains confident of qualifying despite three straight losses, while CPL playoff pressure continues across the league.

Public Procurement Skills: The Caribbean Development Bank is inviting applications for two fully funded public procurement scholarships in Italy (University of Rome Tor Vergata), aimed at strengthening procurement systems across CDB borrowing member countries. Health Infrastructure: Barbados’ QEH/Enmore expansion is set to add a dedicated burn unit, more beds, lab capacity and cancer treatment resources, with US$175m in development bank financing over the next three to four years. Road Works: Transport and Works Minister Kirk Humphrey announced a major road repair and pothole patching drive across Barbados, starting in northern parishes, with private sector support and staged work after utility upgrades. Reparations Agenda: Barbados will host CARICOM’s third Regional Conference on Reparations (Sept 17–19) to advance the reparatory justice campaign and Ten-Point Plan. Customs Modernisation: Finance Minister Ryan Straughn says new Customs regulations and standard operating procedures will come into effect by October, alongside technology upgrades and changes to how Customs engages the public. Labour Market: BWU President General Shawn Knight says Barbados needs stronger law enforcement, not more labour laws, and highlighted portable social security benefits. Business Enablement: A Barbados-focused piece highlights how small businesses across the region often automate customer-facing “front doors” while leaving payroll, inventory and ledgers largely manual.

Digital Business Gap: Barbados’ small firms are automating the “shop window” (social media and customer-facing tools) while back-office systems lag, with only small shares using payroll software, digitised inventory, or any digital management at all. Reparations Agenda: Barbados will host the third CARICOM Regional Conference on Reparatory Justice (Sept 17–19) in St Philip, aiming to map next steps under CARICOM’s Ten-Point Plan. Public Procurement Skills: The Caribbean Development Bank is offering two fully funded public procurement scholarships (Italy) for 2026/27, targeting stronger procurement and value-for-money across borrowing member states. Customs Modernisation: Barbados’ Finance Minister says new Customs regulations and standard operating procedures will roll out by October, alongside updated technology and Trusted Trader-related changes. Labour Relations: The Barbados Workers’ Union says the country needs tougher law enforcement, not more labour laws, and points to portable social security benefits. CDB Scholarships: Procurement professionals can apply for advanced training in public procurement in Italy, with applications closing Oct 3. Sports & Community: Flow will donate US$50 per Barbados Tridents six to local cricket clubs, as part of its “Every Six Gives Back” campaign. Independence Build-Up: PM Mia Amor Mottley has launched the 60th Independence countdown, declaring “Barbados Day” every Friday through Nov 30.

Caribbean Tourism Policy: Guyana President Irfaan Ali will keynote the CTO’s State of the Tourism Industry Conference (SOTIC) in Georgetown in October, focusing on smart, sustainable and inclusive tourism as the region tackles tech shifts, climate pressure and tougher competition. Public Procurement Skills: The Caribbean Development Bank is offering two fully funded public procurement scholarships in Italy for 2026/27, aimed at strengthening procurement systems across borrowing member countries. Barbados Independence & Tourism Branding: Prime Minister Mia Mottley kicks off the 60th Independence countdown with “Barbados Day” every Friday to Nov. 30, while BTMI launches “Barbados Remembers Your Name,” spotlighting repeat visitors and the people-driven connections that bring them back. Business Financing: UWI economist Winston Moore urges firms to consider equity financing to manage the cost of capital and improve returns for investors. Local Economy & Safety: Barbados Customs will roll out new regulations by October, and marine experts renew warnings about the Hot Pot after a recent drowning.

Venezuela Oil Deal and Barbados Link: A new U.S.-Venezuela oil arrangement has put a spotlight on NABEP, an oil company run by Venezuelan businessman Alejandro Betancourt, with the firm described as Barbados-registered—while critics call it a “shameful sellout” and question the deal’s governance and credibility. Customs Modernisation: Barbados’ Finance Minister Ryan Straughn says new Customs regulations, including updated standard operating procedures and technology upgrades, will come into effect by October, building on the Trusted Trader programme and advanced rulings. Transport and Cost of Living: A digital payment pilot for public service vehicles is set to start in the next two to three weeks, aiming to cut paper tickets and fare fraud as eight buses move toward cashless operations. Business Financing: Economist Winston Moore urges Barbados firms to consider equity financing as a viable alternative to bank loans, arguing the country needs a better conversation on cost of capital and investment returns. Tourism Campaign: Barbados Tourism Marketing Inc. launches “Barbados Remembers Your Name,” leaning on repeat visitors and personal connections to drive a new global destination push. Public Health: The Heart and Stroke Foundation continues its fight against sugar and salt abuse with a Healthy School Nutrition Forum and updated healthier snack and drink guidance for schools. CPL Cricket: Barbados Tridents’ season takes another hit after a third straight loss to St Kitts and Nevis Patriots, leaving them in the cellar ahead of their home leg at Kensington Oval. Regional Reparations: Barbados will host the Third CARICOM Regional Conference on Reparations from Sept 17–19, focused on practical steps for reparatory justice under a revised Ten-Point Plan.

Regional Aviation & Cost of Travel: Barbados and CARICOM are being urged to cut airport fees and passenger taxes to make intra-regional flying cheaper and boost demand, with aviation experts calling regional air links “essential infrastructure.” Public Transport Modernisation: A digital, cashless fare pilot for public service vehicles is set to start in the next two to three weeks, aiming to reduce paper tickets and fare fraud while modernising routes. Energy Transition Costs: Barbados’ push toward 50% renewables by end-2027 may raise electricity costs in the interim, as government pursues battery storage, grid upgrades and regulatory reform. World Bank Leadership: Judith Green has been named World Bank Group Country Manager for Barbados and the Eastern Caribbean, based in Barbados and tasked with supporting jobs and sustainable development. Regional Development & Accountability: The Caribbean Development Bank launched CEvalSpace 2026 to help countries build monitoring and evaluation systems suited to small-island realities. CARICOM Reparations Agenda: Barbados will host the Third CARICOM Regional Conference on Reparations (Sept 17–19) to advance practical implementation of the revised Ten-Point Plan. Crime Update: Two deadly stabbings in under 24 hours lifted Barbados’ 2026 homicide toll to 36, with police investigating separate incidents in St Michael. CPL & Local Economy Buzz: The Barbados Tridents’ home CPL leg at Kensington Oval begins Sept 5 with eight matches over nine days; tickets are reported as not fully sold out. Venezuela Oil Deal Watch (Barbados link): Chevron plans to expand in Venezuela after the US-Venezuela oil agreement; NABEP, headquartered in Barbados, is central to the 100-year field concessions.

World Bank Leadership: Jamaican economist Judith Green has been named World Bank Group Country Manager for Barbados and the Eastern Caribbean, effective Sept. 1, based in Barbados and covering IBRD, IFC and MIGA work on jobs and sustainable development. Energy Costs & Transition: Barbados’ energy consultation is weighing the near-term cost impact of moving to more renewables, with Chamber of Commerce and Industry council member Stephen Worme saying prices may rise unless the transition is well managed and communicated. Regional Airlift Watch: Caribbean Airlines’ end of the direct Tobago–Barbados passenger and cargo service from Wednesday is creating a potential connectivity gap, while LIAT Air and interCaribbean say any response depends on demand and avoiding route overcrowding. CPL Ticket Demand: Despite early sales chatter, CPL matches in Barbados are not sold out yet, with “quite a few tickets” still available for fans. Venezuela Oil Deal Fallout: Chevron plans to expand in Venezuela after the U.S.-Venezuela oil agreement, but analysts and industry voices question whether the long development timelines can deliver quick benefits. Local Fisheries Reform: Barbados is moving toward mandatory circle hooks for horizontal longline vessels, replacing J-hooks to improve tuna catch and survival of released non-target species. Back-to-School Spending: Retailers report a mixed final rush as parents complete purchases, with some items arriving late earlier in the season and certain sizes already running scarce.

Venezuela Oil Push: Chevron is set to expand in Venezuela after the Trump-backed US-Venezuela oil accord, with Chevron and Energy Secretary Chris Wright expected to visit Caracas as NABEP’s 65 billion-barrel plan faces legal and timeline skepticism. Banking Leadership: First Citizens overhauled its top team, appointing Sana Ragbir as acting Group CEO after Jason Julien’s resignation, with acting deputy roles also filled. Air Connectivity Watch: Caribbean Airlines ends its direct Tobago–Barbados passenger and cargo service, creating a potential regional airlift gap while other carriers say they’re monitoring demand. Energy & Training: Barbados’ BNECL awarded scholarships and transition grants, while the World Bank named Judith Green as Country Manager for Barbados and the Eastern Caribbean. Fisheries Rules: Barbados moves toward mandatory circle hooks for horizontal longline vessels to improve tuna catch and reduce harm to non-target species. Food Security Drive: Project CARE is relaunched as a long-term household food security and farming support programme, including Deacons Farm assistance for about 600 families. Women’s Tech Skills: NOW and Amplifi AI launch “Build a Business with AI,” offering free training to 35 women to build viable businesses. Sports Business Angle: CPL playoff pressure continues as TKR face a must-win clash at Queen’s Park Oval, with Barbados Tridents also in the mix.

Regional Finance & Oversight: A new Central Bank of Barbados study says bank links with non-bank financial institutions don’t pose major systemic risk, but supervisors should closely watch liquidity risk where NBFI deposits are concentrated. Development & Accountability: The Caribbean Development Bank launched CEvalSpace 2026, a new Caribbean Evaluation Space aimed at strengthening evaluation and evidence-based policymaking across the region. Women & Entrepreneurship: NOW and Amplifi AI rolled out “Build a Business with AI,” offering free AI training to up to 35 women across three Saturdays in September. Health Project Safeguards: A grievance redress mechanism is set to cover complaints, including sexual exploitation and abuse, across four major health facilities under the US$175m Health Services Resilience Programme. Business Expansion: Chefette announced its 14th Barbados outlet in Newton, Christ Church, with construction underway and plans to open in summer 2027, creating about 50 jobs. Energy & Legal Appointments: Barbados-headquartered NABEP named Sara Chouraqui as general counsel, bringing experience from the UK Serious Fraud Office as the company expands its regional operations. Sports & Local Economy Angle: CPL action continues with Guyana Amazon Warriors staying undefeated, while Barbados Tridents prepare for key matches—keeping regional attention on the island’s sporting brand.

Afreximbank Leadership Moves: Afreximbank has appointed Kudakwashe Matereke as Director of Regional Operations for Anglophone West Africa (based in Abuja) and named Eric Intong Monchu as Group Managing Director for Client Relations and Regional Operations (based in Cairo), as the bank pushes to deepen intra-African trade and strengthen delivery across Africa and the Caribbean. Barbados Tourism & Hospitality: Barbados Tourism Marketing Inc. has appointed Michèle Rauzon as Business Development Representative for Québec, aiming to grow awareness and partnerships in the Canadian travel trade; and the Caribbean Hospitality Industry Exchange Forum (CHIEF) returns to Barbados in November (Nov. 16–18) at Wyndham Grand Barbados Sam Lord’s Castle, with an Exchange Hub for suppliers and operators. Local Business & Governance: NCB Financial Group has named Julian Mair as Group CEO effective Nov. 17, while Sheree Martin becomes CEO of NCB Jamaica effective Sept. 1; and Barbados’ PM Mia Amor Mottley paid tribute to Sir Stephen Emtage, praising his role in shaping the island’s economic development. Sports Business: Government is exploring a pickleball partnership with the Ultimate Pickleball League, including retrofitting hardcourts and mass-producing road tennis rackets for international markets. Regional Trade & Security: WCO says Project BOLT has concluded, boosting Caribbean customs capacity to tackle illicit weapons and narcotics. Logistics Incident: A crane fire at Mumbai Port injured two operators during cargo unloading from the Barbados-flagged vessel Vienna, with an investigation underway.

Hospitality & Tourism: CHIEF (Caribbean Hospitality Industry Exchange Forum) returns to Barbados Nov. 16–18 at Wyndham Grand Barbados Sam Lord’s Castle Resort, with three days of hotel-focused sessions, an Exchange Hub marketplace and industry networking. Tourism Marketing: Barbados Tourism Marketing Inc. appoints Michèle Rauzon as Business Development Representative for Québec, aiming to deepen travel-trade partnerships and grow visitor demand from the province. Regional Food Security: CARICOM targets cutting the region’s $6bn food import bill by 25%, opening a reported $1.5bn opportunity for Caribbean farmers—though success depends on local supply consistency and price competitiveness. Labour Oversight: Barbados Workers’ Union warns labour shortages can’t justify importing cheap labour, calling for tighter scrutiny of work permits after concerns raised about migrant workers’ living and working conditions. Community & Infrastructure: Spa Hill residents in St Joseph say a crumbling, slippage-prone road and a relocation promise have stalled since April, leaving homes and daily travel at risk. Security Capacity: WCO’s Project BOLT concludes after boosting Caribbean customs frontline enforcement against weapons and narcotics, including firearms detection and intelligence-led operations. International Business/Trade: Afreximbank appoints senior executives to strengthen regional operations across Africa and the Caribbean, with a focus on client engagement and transaction delivery. Sports (Business of Sport): CPL playoff race tightens as St Lucia Kings lead on points, with multiple teams tied and remaining fixtures including Barbados Tridents matchups.

Port Incident: Two crane operators were injured after a crane fire during cargo unloading at Mumbai’s BPS port, involving the Barbados-flagged vessel “Vienna” and a 140-metric-ton lift; police say a sling imbalance shifted the load onto a second crane, which struck the ship and ignited from friction, with the fire brigade quickly extinguishing the blaze. Labour & Compliance: Barbados Workers’ Union leaders are pushing for tighter scrutiny of work permits and stronger enforcement of labour standards, warning that “labour shortages” can’t justify importing cheap labour under subpar conditions. Workers’ Pay: Berger Paints is set to settle outstanding payments to former workers by September 11 after a Labour Department resolution, including retroactive wage adjustments and incentive pay. Youth Leadership: The President’s Trust is calling for volunteer mentors for the Chapman Challenge, seeking community “support anchors” to guide young people aged 10–24. Sports & Business Interest: In CPL action, Sunil Narine powered Trinbago Knight Riders to a seven-wicket win over the Barbados Tridents, while the playoff race tightens across the top teams. Tourism & Travel: JetBlue’s weekly Boston–Barbados flight is being marketed as a convenient way to experience multiple coasts and hotel styles across the island.

CPL Playoff Push: St. Lucia Kings lead the 2026 Republic Bank CPL after seven matches, on 8 points, with Jamaica Kingsmen and Antigua Falcons also on 8 but separated by net run rate; the Kings’ remaining fixtures include Barbados Tridents and Guyana Amazon Warriors. Labour Rights Watch: Barbados Workers’ Union leaders are calling for stricter enforcement of labour standards and tighter scrutiny of work permits, after interventions into migrant workers’ “subpar” living and working conditions. Former Workers Paid: Berger Paints is set to settle outstanding monies to 164 former employees by September 11, following a Labour Department resolution covering backdated wage adjustments and incentive pay. Youth Mentoring Drive: The President’s Trust is recruiting 84 volunteer mentors for the Chapman Challenge, a leadership programme for ages 10–24 starting September 23. Courtroom Hardship vs Accountability: Barbados courts heard theft cases where accused cited hunger and financial hardship, but officials stressed desperation cannot be a licence to steal. Sports Spotlight: Sunil Narine powered Trinbago Knight Riders to a seven-wicket win over Barbados Tridents, with Narine starring both with bat and ball.

Labour Rights Watch: BWU president general Shawn Knight says Barbados needs tougher enforcement of labour standards and a fully staffed, empowered Labour Department as violations continue without consequences. Workers’ Pay Update: Berger Paints former workers are set to receive outstanding monies by September 11 after a Labour Department resolution, including backdated wage adjustments and incentive pay. Retail Cost Pressure: Bridgetown retailers report rising import, freight and customs clearance costs are forcing higher prices ahead of the new school year, with charities seeing more demand for back-to-school help. Education Access & Safety: Rural St Mary schoolchildren face dangerous, flood-prone commutes as damaged school infrastructure and unreliable access threaten the September 7 start. Youth Opportunities: A St Andrew youth advocate calls for one national framework and a single online portal to help young people find and navigate scattered government programmes. Renewables Push: IRENA is inviting renewable energy project proposals across the region, including Barbados, for potential financing and de-risking support. CPL Spotlight: Sunil Narine’s all-round masterclass powered Trinbago Knight Riders to a seven-wicket win over Barbados Tridents at Queen’s Park Oval. Air Travel Change: Caribbean Airlines will discontinue direct Trinidad–Barbados service via Tobago from September 2, citing schedule optimisation. Culture & Heritage: Minister Trevor Prescod urges a revival of spouge, while the Jackie Opel Amphitheatre is set to be revitalised as a regular venue for youth and community performances.