SVG and CARICOM Begin Strategic Talks on Trade Resilience 

By Admin. Updated 5:07 p.m., Thursday, April 24, 2025, Atlantic Standard Time (GMT-4).

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Foreign Trade, and Consumer Affairs held a national trade consultation at the UWI Global Campus in Kingstown to examine Saint Vincent and the Grenadines’ (SVG) trade performance, current challenges, and strategies for economic resilience.

The event brought together key representatives from the CARICOM Secretariat, including Mr. Vincent Atkins and Mr. Dennis Crawford, as well as local government officials, business leaders, and stakeholders from both the public and private sectors.

Mr. Crawford presented several critical issues affecting SVG’s trade, including the impact of natural disasters, shifting global trade policies like the “America First” approach, and regional export trends. He also outlined data on SVG’s trade flows from 2012 to 2023 and highlighted areas of untapped export potential—particularly in agriculture and manufacturing.

Mr. Atkins noted that SVG is the first CARICOM Member State to engage the Secretariat since the rise of new U.S. tariffs, making this consultation especially timely. His presentation covered trade liberalisation, duty-free access, and regional trade agreements.

During open discussions, the public sector emphasised the need to strengthen the CARICOM Single Market and Economy (CSME), improve trade negotiation strategies, and modernise foreign trade mechanisms. Meanwhile, the private sector raised concerns about competitiveness, pricing, and the limited marketing of local products. Special attention was given to the need for better support of small businesses, including those in fashion and tourism, and for solutions to ongoing production and export challenges.

The Ministry expressed gratitude to all participants and reaffirmed its commitment to ongoing collaboration with the private sector and CARICOM to create new opportunities for  St. Vincent and the Grenadines’ economic future.