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OFFICE OF TRADE NEGOTIATIONS
DAILY DIGEST
2010 December 6th
WTO Arena
WTO Secretariat reports drop in anti-dumping investigations and measures
The WTO Secretariat reported that during the period 1 January — 30 June 2010, the number of initiations of
new anti-dumping investigations showed a 29% decrease compared with the corresponding period of 2009.
The number of new measures applied also decreased during the first semester of 2010 when compared
with the first half of 2009.
http://www.wto.org/english/news_e/pres10_e/pr623_e.htm
Russian WTO accession reaches climax
The protracted negotiations over Russia’s accession to the World Trade Organization, WTO enter the home
stretch on Monday and Tuesday in Geneva, as all the key members of the Organization meet to iron out the
remaining issues.
http://english.ruvr.ru/2010/12/06/36308548.html
See Related:
Medvedev to Conclude WTO Talks With EU During Brussels Visit
http://www.bloomberg.com/news/2010-12-06/medvedev-to-conclude-wto-talks-with-eu-duringbrussels-visit.html
WTO's face-to-face hearings on COOL wrap up
More questions are still to come from the World Trade Organization's dispute settlement panel as its final
face-to-face hearings conclude on Canada's challenge of U.S. mandatory country-of-origin labelling
(COOL).
http://www.grainews.ca/issues/ISArticle.asp?aid=1000395196&PC=FBC&issue=12062010
Anti-dumping investigations fall in first half-WTO
GENEVA, Dec 6 (Reuters) - The number of anti-dumping investigations -- probes into unfairly priced imports
-- notified to the World Trade Organization fell in the first half of this year, the WTO said on Monday.
http://af.reuters.com/article/metalsNews/idAFLDE6B50W520101206
NOTE: The opinions and articles mentioned do not necessarily reflect the views of The Office of Trade
Negotiations (OTN), or the Caribbean Community (CARICOM) Secretariat.
http://www.crnm.org
More farm bill drama lies ahead
If history is any guide, there will be no agreement on extension of the federal farm bill in either 2011 or 2012,
according to National Farmers Union President Roger Johnson.
http://www.theindependent.com/articles/2010/12/05/news/local/doc4cfc79b78f946598411761.txt
Panel report out on China-EU fastener dispute
The WTO, on 3 December 2010, issued the report of the panel that had examined a complaint by China in
the case “ European Communities — Definitive AD Measures on Certain Iron or Steel Fasteners from
China” (DS397).
http://www.wto.org/english/news_e/news10_e/397r_e.htm
Experts Meeting on Indicators: Measuring Aid-for-Trade Results at the Country Level
Presentation of the Aid-for-Trade Indicators Project by the OECD Secretariat
http://www.oecd.org/document/41/0,3343,en_2649_34665_46303593_1_1_1_37431,00.html
EU requests waiver on trade preferences to Pakistan
The European Union, at the meeting of the Council for Trade in Goods on 30 November 2010, requested a
waiver on trade preferences it would provide to Pakistan to help the country recover from floods last JulyAugust that affected some 20 million people.
http://www.wto.org/english/news_e/news10_e/good_30nov10_e.htm
CARICOM-CANADA
Canadian economic accounts
Real gross domestic product (GDP) rose 0.3% in the third quarter, following a 0.6% gain in the previous
quarter. Final domestic demand grew 0.9%, as business investment in plant and equipment advanced. On a
monthly basis, real GDP by industry declined 0.1% in September.
http://www.statcan.gc.ca/daily-quotidien/101130/dq101130a-eng.htm
MERCOSUR
-EU/ ACP
Antigua/Barbuda and CARICOM EPA Implementation Units “deepening relationship”
CARICOM Secretariat, Georgetown, Guyana - Head of the Antigua and Barbuda Economic Partnership
Agreement (EPA) Implementation Unit Ambassador Clarence Henry expressed satisfaction at the outcome
of a meeting with the EPA Implementation Unit of the Caribbean Community (CARICOM) Secretariat.
http://www.csmenetwork.com/2/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=10412&Itemid=211
Discussion Paper 104: Implementing the Economic Partnership Agreement in the East African
Community and the CARIFORUM regions: What is in it for the private sector?
http://www.ecdpm.org/Web_ECDPM/Web/Content/Navigation.nsf/index2?readform=&http%3A%2F%
2Fwww.ecdpm.org%2FWeb_ECDPM%2FWeb%2FContent%2FContent.nsf%2F0%2F1DE2865C2CEC6
2A4C12577CA0034FD4D%3FOpenDocument=#
NOTE: The opinions and articles mentioned do not necessarily reflect the views of The Office of Trade
Negotiations (OTN), or the Caribbean Community (CARICOM) Secretariat.
http://www.crnm.org
EU Commissioner for Trade to participate in ACP-EU Joint Parliamentary Assembly
EU Trade Commissioner Karel De Gucht will attend the ACP-EU Joint Parliamentary Assembly in the
Democratic Republic of Congo on Saturday. He will take part in a discussion on Economic Partnership
Agreements, the EU’s main trade and development instrument for the African Caribbean and Pacific region.
http://trade.ec.europa.eu/doclib/press/index.cfm?id=662
Regional
(NB. Watch the Caribbean Media Corporation (CMC) News Brief via this link)
(NB. Also listen to BBC Caribbean Report via this link)
CARICOM SG urges Community to seek out benefits under trade agreements
Georgetown, Guyana - CARICOM Secretary-General His Excellency Sir Edwin Carrington has charged the
Council for Trade and Economic Development (COTED) to pursue and harvest the full benefits that were
available within the realm of trade relations with external partners, both traditional and non-traditional.
http://www.csmenetwork.com/2/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=10444&Itemid=211
Beyond Caricom's 'search' for a new secretary general
FOUR months have elapsed since the stern exchanges at the Caricom Heads of Government Meeting in
Jamaica last July, that decided to bring to an end the 18-year reign of Secretary General Edwin Carrington.
No date was set for the secretary general to vacate office. But rather than be "run out", wise and astute
batsman that he is, Carrington saw the fading light and announced, exact to the day one month later on
Wednesday, August 4, that he would end his innings on December 31, 2010.
http://www.jamaicaobserver.com/columns/Beyond-Caricom-s--search--for-a-new-secretarygeneral_8210530
New ED for Caribbean Export
Bridgetown, November 29, 2010. Pamela Coke Hamilton has been appointed Executive Director of the
Caribbean Export Development Agency with effect from November 1, 2010. Ms Coke Hamilton has an
intimate knowledge of Caribbean external and internal trade policy and more than 20 years' experience in
trade policy formulation, capacity building, negotiations and implementation, working at national, regional
and multilateral levels. Prior to joining Caribbean Export, Ms Coke Hamilton served as Regional Hub
Coordinator for the Caribbean in the Integration and Trade Department of the Inter-American Development
Bank and prior to that as Director of Trade and Competitiveness at the Organization of American States.
She was also instrumental in the design and implementation of the Masters in International Trade Policy
(MITP) Programme at the University of the West Indies, a flagship program which has provided increased
depth to the regions trade policy capability.
http://www.businessbarbados.com/News/Press-Releases/Article/New-ED-for-Caribbean-Export.html
CARICOM Secretariat increases CSME Public Education Efforts
CARICOM Secretariat, Georgetown, Guyana - The CARICOM Secretariat has increased its public
education efforts on the CARICOM Single Market and Economy (CSME) through television advertising, the
printing of two booklets and the launch of a new CSME website.
http://www.csmenetwork.com/2/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=10413&Itemid=211
See Also:
NOTE: The opinions and articles mentioned do not necessarily reflect the views of The Office of Trade
Negotiations (OTN), or the Caribbean Community (CARICOM) Secretariat.
http://www.crnm.org
CSME unit ‘soldiering on’ despite challenges
http://www.barbadosadvocate.com/newsitem.asp?more=local&NewsID=14350
Judge blames colonisation's effects for failure to accept CCJ
DISTINGUISHED Jamaican judge Patrick Robinson says the country's failure to replace the United
Kingdom Privy Council with the Caribbean Court of Justice (CCJ) has only served to nourish the seed of
unfitness, incapacity and inferiority planted in our heads by 300 years of colonisation.
http://www.jamaicaobserver.com/news/Judge-blames-colonisation-s-effects-for-failure-to-acceptCCJ_8214292#ixzz17L8Ejt6H
See Also:
DOMINICA-Former St Lucia PM urges support for CCJ
ROSEAU, Dominica, CMC – Former St Lucia prime minister Dr. Vaughan Lewis has warned Caribbean
Community (CARICOM) countries that they face possible international rebuke if they fail to sign on to the
Caribbean Court of Justice (CCJ) that they themselves initiated to replace the London-based Privy Council
as the region’s final court.
http://www.csmenetwork.com/2/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=10434&Itemid=211
ENVIRONMENT - Germany supports CARICOM’s sustainable development efforts
CSMENetwork - Georgetown, Guyana The Caribbean Community (CARICOM) Secretariat on Thursday
charted a new phase in its relations with Germany through a Technical Cooperation arrangement that would
boost the Region’s sustainable development efforts
http://www.csmenetwork.com/2/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=10441&Itemid=211
Caribbean tourism leaders hold meeting in USVI
ST THOMAS, USVI (MCT) -- Fifteen members of the Caribbean Tourism Organization arrived on St
Thomas in the US Virgin Islands on Wednesday for their annual board meeting.
http://www.caribbeannewsnow.com/topstory-Caribbean-tourism-leaders-hold-meeting-in-USVI3762.html
GLEANER EDITORIAL: Cayman summit makes sense
It is surprising that it hasn't happened before, and that its orchestration is by a private finance house and a
university rather than a government of the sub region.
http://www.csmenetwork.com/2/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=10455&Itemid=211
Crime has serious impact on Caribbean economies says ECCB governor
The CMC reported that Venner told delegates attending the Association of Caribbean Commissioners of
Police (ACCP) conference that ended in Bridgetown, Barbados, on Friday that a study showed that the cost
of fighting crime in Jamaica in 2001 was $12.4 billion or 3.7 percent of gross domestic product. He also cited
a 2009 study, which took a "comprehensive look" at the impact of crime in that country.
http://www.caribbeannewsnow.com/topstory-Crime-has-serious-impact-on-Caribbean-economiessays-ECCB-governor-3815.html
NOTE: The opinions and articles mentioned do not necessarily reflect the views of The Office of Trade
Negotiations (OTN), or the Caribbean Community (CARICOM) Secretariat.
http://www.crnm.org
The region needs to develop much stronger business support organizations
Encouraging the Caribbean private sector to become more dynamic is far from easy. This is not to comment
on the largest Caribbean companies – the forty or more enterprises which are multinational, well financed
and managed, and are invested in or exporting across the region as well as to North and South America and
Europe. Rather it is to focus on the smaller aspirant Caribbean companies and the support they need if they
are ever to develop the capacity and technical knowledge to take advantage of the removal of tariff barriers
for goods and services.
http://www.stabroeknews.com/2010/features/12/05/the-region-needs-to-develop-much-strongerbusiness-support-organizations/
CARIBBEAN-Diplomats paint grim picture for the region
CANCUN, Mexico, CMC – Caribbean diplomats here say the region faces “the end of history” if rich
countries do not raise their ambition to hold temperatures well below two degrees Celsius.
http://www.csmenetwork.com/2/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=10409&Itemid=211
See Also:
Climate change could destroy Caribbean resorts — UN
http://www.jamaicaobserver.com/business/Climate-change-could-destroy-Caribbean-resorts--UN_8205961#ixzz1738uRXoP
Commentary: Climate change talks failing the Caribbean
http://www.caribbeannewsnow.com/topstory-Commentary%3A-Climate-change-talks-failing-theCaribbean-3749.html
SURINAME-Guyana and Suriname adopting working strategy for Cancun talks
http://www.csmenetwork.com/2/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=10438&Itemid=211
IMPACS - Collaboration begins on programmes to fight crime in the Region
Port of Spain, Trinidad and Tobago: The Government of Trinidad and Tobago, The CARICOM
Implementation Agency for Crime and Security (CARICOM IMPACS), the United Nations Office on Drugs
and Crime (UNODC), the Organization of American States and the Central American Integration System
(SICA) have joined forces at the First Expert Group Meeting of the Santo Domingo Pact and Managua
Mechanism (SDP/MM) for the Caribbean to discuss New Responses in the Fight against Organized Crime
and Drug Trafficking in the Caribbean, Central America and Mexico.
http://www.csmenetwork.com/2/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=10443&Itemid=211
World
Germany reaffirms commitment to Euro as markets test EU monetary union
German Finance minister Wolfgang Schaeuble said financial markets are currently testing whether the Euro
zone will survive but he insisted the 16-nation monetary union won't break up. However he also warned
about the risk of the emergence of an anti-Euro party.
http://en.mercopress.com/2010/12/06/germany-reaffirms-commitment-to-euro-as-markets-test-eumonetary-union
See Also:
NOTE: The opinions and articles mentioned do not necessarily reflect the views of The Office of Trade
Negotiations (OTN), or the Caribbean Community (CARICOM) Secretariat.
http://www.crnm.org
EU governments’ support for financial sector 4.5 tr Euros; UK top of the list
http://en.mercopress.com/2010/12/06/eu-governments-support-for-financial-sector-4.5-tr-euros-uktop-of-the-list
No India-EU free trade accord during PM's visit
New Delhi, Dec 6 (IANS) The much-awaited free trade agreement (FTA) between India and the European
Union is unlikely to be ready for inking when Prime Minister Manmohan Singh visits Brussels for a summit
with the 27-nation bloc Friday, German Ambassador Thomas Matussek said here Monday.
http://sify.com/finance/no-india-eu-free-trade-accord-during-pm-s-visit-news-defaultkmgwasgeeba.html
The Least Developed Countries Report, 2010
The global financial and economic crisis highlight the urgent need to move beyond business as usual and,
through concerted international action, foster more stable and inclusive global development. The crisis has
been a sober reminder that economic and social imbalances and inequalities, both within and between
countries, if left to correct themselves, are likely to produce damaging and destructive outcomes, particularly
for vulnerable countries and communities. This Report focuses on the boombust cycle of the past decade in
the least developed countries (LDCs) and offers alternatives for the coming decade.
http://www.unctad.org/Templates/WebFlyer.asp?intItemID=5737&lang=1
Ibero-American summit calls for closer South-South cooperation
Mar del Plata, Argentina.– The Organization of Ibero-American States Friday called for strengthening SouthSouth cooperation in face of the current global financial crisis.
http://www.dominicantoday.com/dr/world/2010/12/4/37855/Ibero-American-summit-calls-for-closerSouth-South-cooperation
UNASUR heads express confidence in Guyana's chairmanship
GEORGETOWN, Guyana (GINA) -- On November 26, Guyana’s President Bharrat Jagdeo took over the
mantle as president of the Union of South American Nations (UNASUR), succeeding his predecessor
Ecuador’s President Rafael Correa at the 4th regular summit of UNASUR held in Guyana.
http://www.caribbeannewsnow.com/headline-UNASUR-heads-express-confidence-in-Guyana%27schairmanship-3784.html
Honduras to modernise, expand Central America's biggest port
WASHINGTON, USA -- Honduras will expand and modernize Central America’s biggest port with $135
million in loans from the Inter-American Development Bank (IDB).
http://www.caribbeannewsnow.com/headline-Honduras-to-modernise%2C-expand-CentralAmerica%27s-biggest-port-3755.html
Panama to strengthen fiscal policy and increase transparency
WASHINGTON, USA -- Panama will reform its tax administration and improve its public expenditure
management with a $200 million loan approved by the Inter-American Development Bank (IDB).
http://www.caribbeannewsnow.com/headline-Panama-to-strengthen-fiscal-policy-and-increasetransparency--3754.html
NOTE: The opinions and articles mentioned do not necessarily reflect the views of The Office of Trade
Negotiations (OTN), or the Caribbean Community (CARICOM) Secretariat.
http://www.crnm.org
U.S.-South Korea Pact Favors Auto Sector
At the end of last week, the U.S. and South Korea appeared to reach the basis of agreement that will also
resuscitate the moribund free-trade effort. In essence it appears that slowing down the liberalization in the
auto sector and pork was what broke the log jam.
http://www.thestreet.com/story/10939472/1/us-south-korea-pact-favors-autosector.html?cm_ven=GOOGLEN
See Also:
President Obama's Announcement Regarding the U.S.-Korea Trade Agreement
http://www.ustr.gov/about-us/press-office/blog/2010/december/president-obamas-announcementregarding-us-korea-trade-agre
South Korea-U.S. trade pact no slam dunk
http://www.dailykos.com/storyonly/2010/12/6/925944/-South-Korea-U.S.-trade-pact-no-slam-dunk
Trans-Pacific Partnership talks underway
An Asia-Pacific region trade agreement or Trans-Pacific Partnership would not be a "Brussels-type" freetrade document with a single model for trade harmonisation, says New Zealand's chief negotiator.
http://www.stuff.co.nz/business/industries/4428679/Trans-Pacific-Partnership-talks-underway
Other News
ANTIGUAN legislators support OECS Revised Treaty
ST JOHN’S, Antigua, CMC – Antigua and Barbuda legislators have given their backing to the efforts by the
St. Lucia-based Organisation of Eastern Caribbean States (OECS) to develop an economic union within the
sub-region.
http://www.csmenetwork.com/2/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=10436&Itemid=211
Barbuda develops 10 year tourism plan
Barbuda will take the first step towards developing its own 10 year tourism master plan, as a two day
tourism summit gets underway this week.
http://ab.gov.ag/gov_v4/article_details.php?id=1098&category=38
Bahamas PM sees change in economic fortunes
NASSAU, Bahamas -- The Bahamas prime minister, Hubert Ingraham, said on Thursday that there are
distinct signs that the worst is over and the tide is beginning to turn for The Bahamas economy.
http://www.caribbeannewsnow.com/topstory-Bahamas-PM-sees-change-in-economic-fortunes3795.html
See Also:
FDI expected to revive economy
http://www.thenassauguardian.com/FDI-expected-to-revive-economy
NOTE: The opinions and articles mentioned do not necessarily reflect the views of The Office of Trade
Negotiations (OTN), or the Caribbean Community (CARICOM) Secretariat.
http://www.crnm.org
Tourism numbers show significant increase in 2010 over 2009
NOTHING is more critical to the recovery of the Bahamian economy than a revival in tourism, and a yearon-year performance comparison shows significant increases in 2010 over 2009 in six of the nine months
through September, Prime Minister Hubert Ingraham said.
http://www.tribune242.com/news/EP-Tourism_news_pg3
PM: Europe’s economic woes threaten Bahamas
Prime Minister Hubert Ingraham is acknowledging threats to economic recovery stemming from debt issues
in the European economy — arguing it should by no means stop The Bahamas from readying for
opportunities.
http://www.thenassauguardian.com/PM--Europe-s--economic-woes-threaten-Bahamas
Barbados signs double taxation agreement with Spain
BRIDGETOWN, Barbados (BGIS) -- Barbados on Wednesday signed a Double Taxation Agreement (DTA)
with Spain, which is expected to deepen trade ties between the two countries.
http://www.caribbeannewsnow.com/topstory-Barbados-signs-double-taxation-agreement-withSpain-3779.html
See Also:
Further trade, tax agreements encouraged
http://www.barbadosadvocate.com/newsitem.asp?more=local&NewsID=14400
NATION EDITORIAL: Embracing tourism
The decision by some Bridgetown retailers to absorb the recent increase in VAT is a laudable one since it
ensures that Government policy is carried through while at the same time the consumer is given a welcome
respite in the face of ever increasing rise in prices and in the cost of living.
http://www.csmenetwork.com/2/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=10426&Itemid=211
Business Monday: Removal of Environmental Levy should help
Minister of Finance and Economic Affairs, Chris Sinckler believes that a lot of Barbadians have not been
focusing on the removal of the Environ-mental Levy announced in the recent Budgetary Proposals. In the
Financial Statement and Budgetary Proposals for the year 2010 made by Minister of Finance, Chris Sinckler
for the period December 1, 2010 to March 31, 2011, he proposed the removal of the Environmental Levy on
imports at a cost of $44 million.
http://www.barbadosadvocate.com/newsitem.asp?more=business&NewsID=14413
Barbados government looking at small business development
BRIDGETOWN, Barbados (BGIS) -- Barbadians need to see entrepreneurship not as a burden, but as an
empowering experience. This was emphasised by Minister of Finance and Economic Affairs, Christopher
Sinckler, on Thursday, as he delivered the feature address at the launch in Barbados of FINPYME Export
Plus Programme, an international technical assistance initiative based in Washington.
http://www.caribbeannewsnow.com/headline-Barbados-government-looking-at-small-businessdevelopment-3780.html
NOTE: The opinions and articles mentioned do not necessarily reflect the views of The Office of Trade
Negotiations (OTN), or the Caribbean Community (CARICOM) Secretariat.
http://www.crnm.org
Belize sugarcane farmers to receive $11 million
BELMIOPAN, Belize -- Belize sugarcane farmers are to receive a total of $11 million to assist them in
meeting their immediate financial obligations.
http://www.caribbeannewsnow.com/topstory-Belize-sugarcane-farmers-to-receive-%2411-million3768.html
BERMUDA signs tax agreement with China
HAMILTON, Bermuda, CMC - Bermuda and China have signed a tax information agreement and Prime
Minister Paula Cox said that the recent controversy over the decision of her predecessor to offer sanctuary
to four Chinese Muslim Uighurs last year was not mentioned during the talks.
http://www.csmenetwork.com/2/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=10431&Itemid=211
South Africa: Zuma Eyes New Opportunities in Cuba
Pretoria — President Jacob Zuma is expected to explore new areas of cooperation between Cuba and
South Africa during a two-day state visit to that country.
http://allafrica.com/stories/201012060766.html
See Also:
Havana to Host Cuba-South Africa Business Forum
HAVANA, Cuba, Dec 4 (acn) The Cuba-South Africa business Forum, sponsored by the Chamber of
Commerce of the Republic of Cuba, will take place on December 6 and 7 at Havana’s Hotel
Nacional.
http://www.cubanews.ain.cu/2010/1204-havana-host-cuba-south-africa-business-forum.htm
Los Van Van's visit signals thaw in US-Cuba cultural relations
LOS ANGELES, USA (MCT) -- When legendary Cuban group Los Van Van played Miami in October 1999,
about 3,000 angry anti-Castro Cuban American exiles pelted fans with eggs, soda cans and rocks.
http://www.caribbeannewsnow.com/headline-Los-Van-Van%27s-visit-signals-thaw-in-US-Cubacultural-relations-3765.html
See Also:
Cuban musicians nominated for Grammy awards
HAVANA, Cuba (ACN) -- The albums Chucho Steps and 100 Sones Cubanos by Cuban musicians Chucho
Valdes and Edesio Alejandro respectively are two of the nominees for the 2011 Grammy Awards, as
officially announced during the Grammy Nomination concert on Wednesday in Los Angeles.
http://www.caribbeannewsnow.com/headline-Cuban-musicians-nominated-for-Grammy-awards3782.html
Venezuela, Angola and Cuba to create oil joint venture
HAVANA, Cuba (ACN) -- The Venezuelan National Assembly has approved the creation of oil joint venture
between Venezuela, Cuba and Angola, Prensa Latina news agency reported.
http://www.caribbeannewsnow.com/headline-Venezuela%2C-Angola-and-Cuba-to-create-oil-jointventure-3781.html
NOTE: The opinions and articles mentioned do not necessarily reflect the views of The Office of Trade
Negotiations (OTN), or the Caribbean Community (CARICOM) Secretariat.
http://www.crnm.org
Draft constitution recommends 'Parliamentary Republican State' for Grenada
ST GEORGE’S, Grenada (GIS) -- A renewed call is being made for Grenada to sever its constitutional ties
with British sovereignty. A just released draft constitution suggests Grenadians should forego their colonial
ties to Britain, forming instead a Parliamentary Republican State.
http://www.caribbeannewsnow.com/headline-Draft-constitution-recommends-%27ParliamentaryRepublican-State%27-for-Grenada-3775.html
Funds Approved for Grenada to Phase-out Ozone Depleting Substances (ODS)
http://www.gov.gd/egov/news/2010/dec10/04_12_10/item_2/funds_approved_grenada.html
UNESCO approves Grenada's application for cultural funding
ST GEORGE’S, Grenada (GIS) -- The United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization
(UNESCO) has approved a request from Grenada for funding US$42,000 for the completion of a National
Cultural Policy.
http://www.caribbeannewsnow.com/headline-UNESCO-approves-Grenada%27s-application-forcultural-funding-3803.html
Citizenship for Chinese nationals
For many years it has been argued that Guyana needs a positive immigration policy that takes account of
the stagnation in its population growth – a combination of heavy migration and a low birth rate. A low
population density and vast open spaces suitable for settlement provide the opportunities for attracting
migrants, or more feasibly, re-migrants. It also makes sense to try to boost population numbers as a larger
internal economy is created and there is a greater growing of wealth. Had there not been the exodus of
decades before, the population of Guyana today could easily have been over two million and providing the
ignition for greater economic development. Today the population hovers around 740,000 with great
concentration on the coastland and the sparsely populated interior.
http://www.stabroeknews.com/2010/opinion/editorial/12/06/citizenship-for-chinese-nationals/
Guyana makes diplomatic changes in Canada, Brazil and Venezuela
http://www.caribbeannewsnow.com/headline-Guyana-makes-diplomatic-changes-in-Canada%2CBrazil-and-Venezuela-3818.html
CARICOM grants trade concession to Haiti
(CARICOM Secretariat, Georgetown, Guyana) Caribbean Community (CARICOM) Trade Ministers have
agreed on the goods that Haiti will be able to export within the Single Market on a non-reciprocal preferential
basis for three years.
http://www.csmenetwork.com/2/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=10440&Itemid=211
Haiti learns from Indonesia
JAKARTA, Indonesia -- Ten months after it was struck by a seven magnitude earthquake, Haiti is now
shifting its focus to reconstruction. In doing so, Haiti has chosen to learn from Indonesia – a fellow
developing country that had to deal with a similar challenge a few years earlier.
http://www.caribbeannewsnow.com/topstory-Haiti-learns-from-Indonesia-3759.html
Broilers to establish Haiti subsidiary... If board approves Levy's plan
Jamaica Broilers Group is planning to build out a new operation in Haiti that, over time, is expected to
parallel the business here.
http://jamaica-gleaner.com/gleaner/20101203/business/business1.html
NOTE: The opinions and articles mentioned do not necessarily reflect the views of The Office of Trade
Negotiations (OTN), or the Caribbean Community (CARICOM) Secretariat.
http://www.crnm.org
EDITORIAL - What CARICOM must do in Haiti
The international community must be prodded and cajoled into delivering the more than US$10 billion it
pledged in long-term aid for the rebuilding of Haiti, which was devastated by earthquake and is now
undergoing the stress of a cholera epidemic.
http://jamaica-gleaner.com/gleaner/20101206/cleisure/cleisure1.html
UN boss appeals for massive Haiti aid
NEW YORK, United States, Friday December 3, 2010 – United Nations Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon
today called on the international community to provide immediate massive aid to Haiti to fight a deadly
cholera epidemic raging through the impoverished country, warning that hundreds of thousands of lives are
at risk.
http://www.caribbean360.com/index.php/news/51984.html?utm_source=Caribbean360+Newsletters&
utm_campaign=ed3971c8cb-Vol_5_Issue_139_News12_3_2010&utm_medium=email
Stimulate renewable energy
The scale and investment in renewable energy worldwide has been staggering. Staggering when one thinks
of the decades of fossil-fuel dominance and dependence.
http://jamaica-gleaner.com/gleaner/20101206/news/news1.html
What is the role of the private sector in ensuring economic growth?
WHEN most people say or think that there is a need to grow the economy, their first thought is that
government will fix it. For sure, governments should create and encourage the creation of the environment
that will ensure prosperity and sustainable economic growth. They do this, among other things, by
establishing and protecting private property rights; ensuring national defense; fighting crime; providing a
sound educational system; maintaining a public health system; ensuring a sound monetary system;
collecting the necessary revenues; paying the public debts; and sourcing funds, when necessary, to pay
debts and to finance development. In addition, government is a major employer as well as a major
purchaser of goods and services. Taken all together, these contribute to growing the economy. But, it is not
the full story.
http://www.jamaicaobserver.com/business/What-is-the-role-of-the-private-sector-in-ensuringeconomic-growth_8178629#ixzz17M1MZigP
Growing the Jamaican economy: sustainable tourism
WHENEVER the Jamaican economy is discussed, it is always pointed out that tourism is one of the top
three foreign exchange earners for the country and a major employer. The current administration makes
sure to promote the fact that Jamaica is among a limited number of countries that have actually seen growth
in tourist arrivals during the recession, while the JHTA points out that overall tourism revenues are down
because of the recession and the discounts that have had to be given to get people to travel.
http://www.jamaicaobserver.com/columns/Growing-the-Jamaican-economy--sustainabletourism_8208900#ixzz17M2BIJlz
OBSERVER EDITORIAL: Business Leader winners: Honour to whom honour is due
Our heartiest congratulations to Mr Denis O'Brien, founder and chairman of Digicel, on being named the top
Observer Business Leader Foreign Investor for 2009.
http://www.csmenetwork.com/2/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=10422&Itemid=211
NOTE: The opinions and articles mentioned do not necessarily reflect the views of The Office of Trade
Negotiations (OTN), or the Caribbean Community (CARICOM) Secretariat.
http://www.crnm.org
Jamaica approves duty-free access for Cuban goods
KINGSTON, Jamaica (OPM) – The Jamaican government has endorsed the implementation of duty free
access for specific goods from Cuba into Jamaica and seasonal duties on other products.
http://www.caribbeannewsnow.com/headline-Jamaica-approves-duty-free-access-for-Cuban-goods3788.html
St Kitts-Nevis discusses future co-operation with Taiwan delegation
BASSETERRE, St Kitts (CUOPM) -- Future cooperation between St Kitts and Nevis and Taiwan was
discussed in Basseterre, the St. Kitts and Nevis capital.
http://www.caribbeannewsnow.com/headline-St-Kitts-Nevis-discusses-future-co-operation-withTaiwan-delegation-3761.html
St. Kitts and Nevis’ new High Commissioner to Trinidad and Tobago presents credentials, meets
Prime Minister Persad-Bissessar
http://www.csmenetwork.com/2/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=10414&Itemid=211
ST LUCIA-Private Sector wants government to introduce stimulus package
CASTRIES, St Lucia, CMC - President of the St. Lucia Chamber of Commerce Industry and Agriculture,
Chester Hinkson, is calling on the Stephenson King government to introduce a short term stimulus package
in the wake of the economic downturn occasioned by Hurricane Tomas.
http://www.csmenetwork.com/2/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=10435&Itemid=357
ST LUCIA-Tourism Minister disappointed at lack of response from St Vincent
CASTRIES, St Lucia, CMC – Tourism Minister Allen Chastanet Friday expressed disappointment that the
St. Vincent and the Grenadines government had not yet responded to a request by CARICOM Airways to
provide a service to the island.
http://www.csmenetwork.com/2/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=10432&Itemid=211
TRAVEL AND BUSINESS CONSULTANT HIGHLIGHTS THE BENEFITS OF TWO MAJOR TOURISM
PROJECTS
http://www.nbcsvg.com/profiles/blogs/projects-business-ideas
RATIFICATION OF SVG'S MARITIME LABOUR CONVENTION OF 2006
Minister of Labour Rene Baptiste has welcomed the ratification by St. Vincent and the Grenadines the
Maritime Labour Convention 2006, an initiative aimed at securing decent work for the many seafarers
working on ships. News of the deposit of the instrument of ratification on November 9th was released by the
International Labour Office in Geneva.
http://www.nbcsvg.com/profiles/blogs/maritime-labour-convention-1
Venezuela businessmen hold meeting with Cadiz
A delegation of businessmen from the FEDEINDUSTRIA Sucre of Venezuela recently met with key officials
of the Ministry of Trade and Industry (MTI), led by Minister Stephen Cadiz, to discuss a range of business
opportunities, including the promotion of a cargo shipping project.
http://www.trinidadexpress.com/businessmagazine/Venezuela_businessmen_hold_meeting_with_Cadiz-111092689.html
NOTE: The opinions and articles mentioned do not necessarily reflect the views of The Office of Trade
Negotiations (OTN), or the Caribbean Community (CARICOM) Secretariat.
http://www.crnm.org
Governor lauds IFC investment
Central Bank Governor, Ewart Williams says the International Finance Corporation (IFC) investment of
US$75 million into Guardian Holdings Limited (GHL) should redound to the benefit of the financial services
industry, especially the insurance industry in T&T, and the Caribbean. Williams said, “This new partnership
should not only strengthen GHL’s balance sheet, but should redound to the benefit of the public by
increasing the availability of insurance products to markets that are not currently well-served.” He added the
list include small businesses, micro-finance institutions and agribusinesses. He stated that IFC’s decision to
partner with GHL through equity participation demonstrates its tremendous confidence in the local financial
services industry, despite the challenges the sector currently faces.
http://guardian.co.tt/business/business/2010/12/04/governor-lauds-ifc-investment
See Also:
IFC shows confidence.
http://guardian.co.tt/business/business/2010/12/03/ifc-shows-confidence
How safe is T&T's natural gas future?
THE new Larry Howai-led National Gas Company (NGC) board faces huge challenges, more than any of its
predecessors did in the 35-year existence of the NGC.
http://www.trinidadexpress.com/business-magazine/How_safe_is_T_T_s_natural_gas_future_111092699.html
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http://www.crnm.org