“C’bean set to seize opportunities” – Oneidge Walrond

As the Caribbean shines through its multifaceted sectors to gain income, it is poised for significant economic growth.
This goal was highlighted by Tourism and Commerce Minister, Oniedge Walrond, during the closing ceremony of the Caribbean Investment Forum at the Arthur Chung Conference Centre on Friday afternoon.
Walrond emphasised that the Caribbean, as a peaceful, safe, and politically stable zone, offers numerous opportunities for attracting investment in non-traditional sectors.
“The framework for a new economic brand for the Caribbean is set, and we are well-poised to seize the opportunities ahead. There is no doubt about our capacity. What we require is the will to succeed and the wisdom to work collectively,” she added.
She noted that while Caribbean economies have historically relied on regional and international trade relationships in traditional sectors such as tourism and agriculture, the dynamics of global trade are shifting. Investors are now exploring opportunities in non-traditional markets.

On the first day of the Investment Forum, European Ambassador Rene Van Nes echoed Walrond’s sentiments. He highlighted the close working relationship between Guyana and Barbados as an example of the Caribbean’s collaboration with the European Union.
“In the Caribbean region, with this very close working relationship between Guyana and Barbados, it’s also an illustration of that global gateway that I mentioned earlier, as it is using (European Union) EU grant money to pave the way for private investments,” he said.
He added that the energy seen at the Caribbean Investment Forum positions the region well to capitalise on the benefits of the economic partnership agreements between the Caribbean Investment Forum and the EU. “The EPA offers duty-free and quota-free access for Caribbean goods and services into the European single market. That is a market of more than 450 million consumers with a huge appetite for healthy ecological products,” Van Nes stated.
Van Nes praised the vibrant business community, young and energetic population, strategic geographical location, and wide range of opportunities in the Caribbean. “The Caribbean has a vibrant business community, a young and energetic population, a strategic geographical location, and a wide range of opportunities and bankable projects. I could write a whole alphabet about the Caribbean,” he happily told the gathering.
“The Caribbean Investment Forum is less talk and more business,” he concluded.
The Caribbean Investment Forum serves as a strategic platform not only to showcase investment opportunities but also to facilitate networking and partnerships, and foster much-needed dialogue among stakeholders. (G2)