In concluding this year’s staging of the Caribbean Investment Forum (CIF), the Caribbean Export Development Agency (Caribbean Export) through this initiative has committed to help in creating approximately 400,000 jobs in the region within the next decade.

This ambitious objective, the entity said serves as a testament to its dedication to driving economic growth and innovation across the region, strengthened by calls for a ‘Bold New Caribbean’, one which seeks to create more jobs and new opportunities for Caribbean people.

“To create 400,000 jobs in the next 10 years, Caribbean Export, together with its partners, will focus on key strategies that support the development of micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs) through financial assistance, training, and market access initiatives. Additionally, Caribbean Export will continue to promote investments in crucial sectors such as infrastructure, resilient agriculture and agribusiness, and the transition to green energy,” the regional agency said.

“Strategic collaboration with international partners and fostering regional trade will further boost export-oriented businesses and job creation. The projects featured in the Caribbean Investment Forum are at the core of this strategy, as these initiatives promote regional growth and development,” it added.

The CIF which serves as a catalyst for economic growth and innovation, brings together entrepreneurs, investors, and industry experts to explore opportunities, showcase innovative ventures, and exchange ideas.

After concluding what it dubbed another “highly successful” staging, speakers at this year’s CIF called on the region’s private and public sector to embrace the global transformational agenda as states together chart the path towards ‘A Bold New Caribbean’.

The three-day event executed by the Caribbean Export in collaboration with the Government of the Bahamas, Caricom, the Caribbean Development Bank (CDB), and the European Union’s Global Gateway Initiative, was held at the Atlantis Resort in Nassau, Bahamas late last month and attracted over 500 business delegates across some 40 countries.

During the forum’s closing ceremony hosting responsibilities were officially handed over to Guyana’s minister of tourism, industry, and commerce, Oneidge Walrond after Leo Naut, deputy executive director at the Caribbean Export officially declared the oil rich country as the host for the 2024 edition of the event.

With a goal to also achieve a consistent 15- 20 per cent growth in foreign direct investment (FDI) over the next few years, the Caribbean Export likewise recommitted its focus towards building a strong foundation for economic resilience and development across the region.

Executive director of Caribbean Export, Deodat Maharaj, who highlighted the immense investment opportunities available in the Caribbean, emphasised agriculture with a focus on technology, green economy transition, and innovation and digitalisation among the sectors which his organisation will continue to “prioritise for investment”.