Business Focus Antigua & Barbuda Issue #63 by Regional Publications

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No. 63

BF Mar - May 2017

CONTENTS FEATURE

26 Question and Answer with Hon. Asot Michael Minister of Tourism 30 Antigua & Barbuda Wins Three Travel Awards Including “Destination of the Year” 32 Five Awards for Top Resorts in The Caribbean Antigua & Barbuda — An Award Winning Destination 34 Antigua Surpasses 100,000 US Stay-over Visitors for 2016 36 People in Tourism Ministry of Tourism 36 Five Awards for Top Resorts in The Caribbean 37 Tourism Innovator Brings Years of Caribbean Tourism Experience and Change Leadership Expertise 37 ABTA Board Members 38 Colin C. James Leads the ABTA Team 39 Digital Platform Team 39 ABTA Overseas Marketing Leadership 40 Antigua And Barbuda… Alive For Caribbean Visitors! 41 Unveiling the Cruise Infrastructure Master Plan 42 The New V. C. Bird International Airport 44 The Citizenship by Investment Programme: Re-building Antigua & Barbuda’s Economy 47 Incentives for Investment, Becoming Competitive in a Globalised Economy 48 New Properties, Airlines Coming to Antigua 49 Marriott – Autograph Collection Resort to Open in Antigua & Barbuda 50 Karisma Hotels & Resorts to Expand to Antigua, Plans to Open Two Hotels on Island by 2019 50 Callaloo Cay Antigua - Ground Breaking for Luxury Five-Star Property 51 Woods Urgent Care 52 Barbuda: Set For Construction Of New Resorts And Airport Runway 54 Antigua & Barbuda and Windies 56 Celebrating 60 years of revelry; Carnival in Antigua 57 Join Us for the Golden Edition of Antigua Sailing Week

58 Antigua Naval Dockyard Receives World Heritage Designation 60 Medical Tourism a New Niche Opportunity Medical Firsts and Infrastructure Creating Regional Demand 61 Antigua Welcomes Larger, New Cruise Vessels 62 International Year of Sustainable Tourism for Development 64 Building Livelihoods through Tourism 65 Training for Excellence in Tourism & Hospitality 66 The Cadet Corps Programme: Holding Hands While Planning for the Future 66 Unique properties: GEMS of Antigua & Barbuda Guide Launches for Small Hotels and Properties 67 Tourism Success Stories: Eli Fuller Takes Us To the Sea ‘Tony’ Johnson Reflects On His Joy In The Hotel Industry 68. Antigua and Barbuda - The Place to Be 70. CHTA to Host CHIEF & Taste of the Caribbean 71. LIAT: A strategic partner in regional travel 72. Sandals Resorts - Setting New Industry Standards and Adding Value to the Destination Brand 74. Antigua Distillery Ltd. Receives FSSC 22000 Certification 6

Business Briefs

The Board’s Cultural Imperative: Ensuring An Ethical Organization

Business Tech

10 Deliver What You Advertise! 10 Porting Will Force Fair Pricing And Better Service

Economy & Trade 12 14

Budget 2017: Building an Economic Powerhouse through Innovation, Creativity and People Participation 2017 — The Year of Advocacy

16 Government To Enact Laws In Gaming Dispute 18 China To Build New Embassy For Antigua & Barbuda 18 APUA and APC sign Power Generation Deal 20 WIOC Expands Fuel Storage Capacity 22 Basic Cents 22 Is The Price Right?

Money Matters 76. 78. 79. 80.

The Fight For Survival Amidst De-Risking Trends Making your credit card work for you Invest Smarter, Not Harder State Insurance Corporation Pays $9M Dividend to Government

Must Reads

82. Marketing 101

In The Know 84. 86. 88. 89. 90. 92.

Protecting Whistleblowers Strong Leadership: 10 Radical Qualities to Develop Your Leadership Skills CARICOM/UN Women sign MOU on Gender Equality and Empowerment WICB Rebrands, Now Called — Cricket West Indies Do An Education Background Check To Avoid Regret The Nation’s Youth in Focus

Environmental Focus

94. Antigua & Barbuda To Sign Deal For Multi-Million Dollar Loan For Climate Change 94. New Study Predicts Climate Change Will Lead to Annual Coral Bleaching in the Caribbean 96. Major Moves 99. Events 2017 101. New Company Registrations 104. Advertisers Index

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Tourism – Creating Opportunities and Enriching Lives! Antigua & Barbuda has registered the highest economic growth for 2016 across the region and is well positioned to continue on the path to being the “Economic Powerhouse of the Caribbean” as promoted by Prime Minister Gaston Browne and his ABLP Government.

Lokesh Singh

The many major infrastructure development projects undertaken by the Government such as the new V.C Bird International Airport, the dredging of the St John’s Harbour, the expansion of the Cruise Port, the re-development of St John’s, major national roadworks along with the developments in Barbuda will help to strengthen Antigua & Barbuda’s position as an attractive and sustainable tourist destination and create many more opportunities to enrich the lives of our people. The aforementioned along with the unveiling of a record Annual National Budget by the Government augurs well for continued future economic growth. We hope that you will enjoy reading our Special Feature on Tourism and other articles as well as explore the possibilities for creating new and expanded business opportunities.

EDITOR: Martina Johnson

Editor’s Note

PHOTOGRAPHY: Gemma Hazelwood • Andre Solomon Martina Johnson • ABTA • Government of Antigua & Barbuda • Online sources

The recent triple award feat won by Minister Asot Michael being named as Caribbean Tourism Minister of the Year, Colin James being named Caribbean Director of Tourism of the Year and Antigua & Barbuda being named Destination of the Year is a most notable achievement and is reflective of their hard work and success which will help to further enhance the country’s image and stature.

Mar /May

PUBLISHER / MANAGING EDITOR: Lokesh Singh

In this Issue of our Magazine we dedicate our Special Feature to the Tourism Industry – being the largest sector of the economy with the greatest potential for growth and continued positive impact on the wider society in terms of sustainable development, job creation and foreign direct investment.

In the recent past, we have seen the announcements unveiling many new major hotel developments to be built in both Antigua & Barbuda with many of them breaking ground for construction. These include many well established brands such as Marriott, Royalton and Karisma among others. All being very good news which will positively influence all economic sectors and the entire country.

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Business Focus magazine is published quarterly by Regional Publications Ltd (RPL) in Antigua and Barbuda.

ADVERTISING SALES: Ann-Maria Marshall • Evol Desouza Shari Dickenson

the Antigua & Barbuda Tourism Authority have delivered continued annual growth through their marketing and promotion efforts with Antigua & Barbuda being well positioned to generate sustained and increased annual growth in arrivals for both stay over visitors and cruise passengers.

Happy Reading.

BUSINESSFOCUS

This is a well deserved accolade for the country and just rewards for the efforts of the Prime Minister and his Ministers travelling worldwide to promote the CIP and Antigua & Barbuda as a preferred destination for attracting investment.

The untiring efforts of Minister Asot Michael and his teams at the Ministry of Tourism and

Editor / Managing Director

COVER PHOTOGRAPHY: Online Sources

EDITORIAL CONTRIBUTORS: Martina Johnson • Ministry of Tourism Whitfield Harris • Kemal Nicholson • Chris Bart Brian Ramsey • Cassandra Simon Lyndell Halliday • Thomas Anthony Henderson Fields • Shavar Maloney Ezra Christopher • Carole Beckford Ann Marie Martin • Alex Holder • OBMI Shirlene Nibbs • CMC • Everett Christian Samuel Rosenberg • Sir Ronald Sanders Online sources Regional Publications Ltd Bryson’s Office Complex, Friars Hill Road, P.O. Box 180, Suite #5A,St.John’s, Antigua + 1 -268- 462- 7680 Email: sales@regionalpub.com Website: www.businessfocusantigua.com Business Focus welcomes contributions from professionals or writers in specialised fields or areas of interest. Reproduction of any material contained herein without written approval, constitutes a violation of copyright. Business Focus reserves the right to determine the content of the publication. ON THE COVER: "Antigua & Barbuda Tourism - Creating Opportunities and Enriching Lives"

Copper and Lumber Hotel

BUSINESS BRIEFS Citizenship by Investment Unit gets a new CEO For the first time since the country started the Citizenship by Investment Programme (CIP) in 2013, a local has been appointed to head the CIP Unit.

Vice-Chancellor Beckles has described the development as a tangible result of over one year of diligent work by the Office of the Vice-Chancellor, with support from regional governments. •

Prime Minister Gaston Browne expressed delight that the person chosen is not only a qualified and capable national of Antigua and Barbuda, but is also female.

“The fact is that when you look at the cost of the judicial system and the cost of the police force as a relationship to our overall budget is very, very high,” Prime Minister Chastanet stated.

“This emphasises my government’s commitment to advancing women in decision-making roles in our society,” he said.

The prime minister noted, “Ms. QuinlandDonovan brings substantial knowledge and experience to the vital work of the Unit, together with keen understanding of international best practices to maintain and improve the standing of our nation’s Citizenship by Investment Programme.” The new CIP boss holds a BSC with first class honours from the University of the West Indies. She is also a Chartered Director and a fully qualified anti-money laundering specialist; worked with the ECCU and Scotia Bank. UWI

The St. Lucian leader believes this approach would bring some measure of relief to governments’ overall debts and also help in eliminating corruption in police services. OECS finance ministers agree to establish facility to provide funding for private sector Access to credit is one of the pillars of private sector growth. So, in an effort to improve citizens’ access to loans from financial institutions, the Eastern Caribbean Central Bank (ECCB) is in the process of developing a credit bureau for the eight-member Eastern Caribbean Currency Union (ECCU). The establishment of a credit bureau for the ECCU is expected to improve access to financing for micro, small and medium-sized enterprises, which make up the lifeblood of our economies. A credit bureau is an effective mechanism for credit risk management because it collects and shares information on how individuals and businesses manage their credit from lending institutions. The details of this facility were disclosed at the 87th Meeting of the ECCU Monetary Council in early March.

Degrees Now Accepted In China Chinese students studying at any of the University of the West Indies’ (UWI) campuses, now have the assurance that future Chinese employers will accept their degrees. In a correspondence to UWI Vice-Chancellor, Sir Hilary Beckles, dated December 15, 2016, His Excellency Ambassador Niu Qingbao, of the Embassy of the People’s Republic of China in Jamaica, affirmed UWI’s status as an approved university by the Ministry of Education of the People’s Republic of China. This landmark development signals that China’s highest education authorities now accept UWI degrees. BusinessFocus

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OECS Heads Press for Deeper Levels of Integration, in Safety And Security As the heads of Government of the OECS Member States continue their push for the full integration and free movement of goods and people throughout the sub-region, Prime Minister of St. Lucia, Allen Chastanet said there is need for a common police force or a regional forensic laboratory.

Charmaine Quinland-Donovan took up the post on March 27, when the resignation of the former Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Chisanga Chekwe took effect.

The prime minister drew attention to QuinlandDonovan’s previous service in the CIP Unit in three important capacities as Chief Compliance Officer, Chief Operating Officer and acting Chief Executive Officer.

Central Bank. It comprises eight Ministers of Finance, one from each OECS member government. •

The Council said that the credit reporting system, which is in the works, is “expected to assist in the reduction in lending rates.” It further stated that, “Credit reporting legislation is necessary to promote the growth and development of the ECCU Credit Reporting System and the development and operationalisation of a credit bureau within the single financial and economic space.” The Council has approved the proposed Credit Reporting Bill and Regulations and agreed to urge member governments to ensure the Credit Reporting Bill and Regulations are in force by September 2017. The Monetary Council is the highest decisionmaking authority of the Eastern Caribbean

He added, “We already see functional cooperation in our court houses so the Court of Appeal is on a regional basis already. Long ago it existed, we actually had the senior officers on rotation basis so the question is, if we have now a common passport, we have common ID cards; why can’t we now have a common database and have a police force that’s a regional police force?” Premier of Nevis and Senior Minister in the St. Kitts-Nevis Cabinet, Vance Amory supported the call for closer collaboration in the interest of safety and security and noted that “it is clear that we are faced with regional threats to security and it means that we have to have a regional response.” St Kitts and Nevis Prime Minister Dr. Timothy Harris also noted that although it may take a while a while to establish a single OECS unit, “we certainly would want to see a greater degree of functional cooperation and the devising as it were of a sub-regional task force to deal with issues of crime.” The OECS Authority Chairman said there will be a follow-up meeting in St. Vincent and the Grenadines in April, where Heads of Governments are expected to continue their discussions on several matters including security and civil aviation. The 64th Meeting of the OECS Authority was held at the St. Kitts Marriott Resort on Friday March 3. • Virgin Holidays partners with ATBA for destination take-over The Antigua and Barbuda Tourism Authority (ABTA) has stepped up advertising efforts in the United Kingdom ahead of the traditional April

BUSINESS BRIEFS sales period to increase summer business for the twin-island destination. “We felt the need to create a boost in Summer 2017 bookings from the United Kingdom ahead of the usual April advertising period, and decided to work with one of our largest tour operator partners in the UK, Virgin Holidays,” said ABTA CEO, Colin C. James.

The UK market accounted for approximately 77,000 stay-over visitors to the destination in 2016 with UK visitors staying nine nights on average which amounts to 346,500 room nights. Longest serving judge retiring

This ABTA initiative has seen Virgin Holidays launch its first ever shop take-over across all Virgin Holidays’ 100 stores in the UK. Virgin Holidays has for the first time allowed a destination to have leaflets across their network of stores, a large central banner and take-over of the shop plasma screens with the Antigua and Barbuda destination video featuring internationally recognised cricketing hero Sir Vivian Richards, inviting visitors to Antigua and Barbuda. For Holiday-seekers looking for holiday deals, the home page of the website www.VirginHolidays. co.uk also has on display a prominent banner for Antigua and Barbuda featuring holiday offers from £699.

President of the Caribbean Court of Justice, Sir Dennis Byron, said Justice Nelson has left an indelible mark during his time at the CCJ. The Court President stated, “it is difficult to put into words the outstanding contribution made by Justice Nelson during his tenure. Suffice it to say that he leaves an outstanding legacy and we will miss his generous spirit, his erudition and wise counsel.” The President noted that Justice Nelson is beloved by the employees of the Court and is highly respected by this peers throughout the region and beyond. •

The longest serving judge at the Caribbean Court of Justice, Rolston Nelson will be retiring in May this year, after over 10 years on the bench in the superior court. He was appointed to the CCJ from its inception in 2005, and has acted as the Court President at various times in his tenure.

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IN THE KNOW

And winning back a customer you have lost is often nearly impossible.

The board’s cultural imperative: ensuring an ethical organization

T h e b o a r d ’ s c u lt u r a l i m p e r at i v e : e n s u r i n g a n e t h i c a l o r g a n i z at i o n By: D r. Chris Bart, F.C.P.A. Chairman, The Caribbean Governance Training Institute

The word “ethics” is widely used – and misunderstood – by most boards. Yet, “ethics” are incredibly important. They define moral principles and rules of conduct. As such, they define “good” versus “bad” behaviour. Accordingly, ethics has quickly become one of the top five topics facing corporations today. And with good reason. The bad behaviour of corporations and the senior managers who lead them has produced some remarkably shameful examples of just how far their moral compass has gone astray – and not just in a few instances. Think WorldCom, Enron, Hewlett Packard, Lehman Brothers, Siemens, Wells Fargo. The list goes on. The result of these scandals has been an unprecedented decline in the trust and respect that society gives to its once revered corporate institutions. For instance, according to the Edelman Annual Trust Barometer, only 50% of participants surveyed in 23 countries think CEOs are credible sources of

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It is for these reasons that the directors of Caribbean organizations have a major role to play in raising both the ethical standards and the behaviours within the corporations on whose boards they sit. In so doing, Caribbean boards need to become the custodian of their organisation’s culture, commonly referred to as “the way we do things around here.” After all, without the ethical behaviours that promote trust, it will be exceedingly difficult for an organisation to accomplish anything in terms of the relationships needed with its stakeholders. So, how should a Caribbean board proceed? To help ensure an ethical organisation – based on trust – the board should make sure that each of the following steps are implemented. Articulate Your Ethics Code

information. Only 53% think financial/ industry analysts are credible sources of information. And 94% do not believe information is trustworthy unless it comes from multiple independent sources. In another major study by ethics guru John Della Costa, it has been reported that 8 out of 10 Canadians perceive a steep decline in their trust of corporations and 40% of employees report having witnessed ethics transgressions of varying magnitude. Promoting and restoring an ethical work environment, therefore, is ultimately about trust. Because without trust, no one can rely on the words or promises of others. Moreover, the costs to the organization to compensate for the trust deficit can easily become extraordinary with demands for stricter and higher regulatory compliance, slower decision processes, “over” diligence and even brand equity erosion. Ultimately, customers rarely will buy the products or services of companies they don’t trust.

The board needs to charge its senior leadership with responsibility for defining what constitutes their organization’s ethical orientation. This is usually expressed in the form of an “ethics code,” which details in precise terms the acceptable and unacceptable behaviours to which both employees and board members alike must adhere. A well-crafted code, however, not only describes what not to do but also what the organization looks like when everyone is operating “at their best.” As a general rule, creating such a code should NOT be done as a reaction to some crisis as this will signal that ethics matter only when the organization is in trouble. Ethics must be a standard operating condition. In addition, it is important that the code be seen as a critical strategic factor – something important to the success of the organization – as opposed to simply something that needs to be done to satisfy the regulators and/or company critics. But defining ethical conduct in a written document is no guarantee that the behaviours required will in fact follow.

Ethics Training and Development

Since the goal is to instill and maintain a culture of trust, it is important that the code be made real for every person – both new and old. Ethics and the Hiring Process For new employees, this means that the ethical code must be used as part of the selection process. The code should be made available to all prospective candidates prior to an interview. During the interview process, candidates should be invited to discuss, for the record, the degree to which it aligns with their personal ethics. They should be asked for specific examples and ultimately to express their acceptance of the code. This might even involve some minicase or problem solving exercises. Once selected, the ethics code should form part of the orientation process and individuals should be asked to describe specifically – in behavioural terms – how it will affect their work. Ethics and Role Descriptions For both new and current employees, their job descriptions should make reference to the code and state explicitly the expectation that everyone is expected to follow it. Moreover, everyone should be asked to sign, on an annual basis, both their understanding and acceptance of the organisation’s code. The aim up to this point, however, is just to ensure that everyone knows exactly what it is that they should do to make the code real and why they should do it.

Unfortunately, knowing what to do and why it should be done is sometimes not enough to get the ethical behaviours desired — particularly among the existing cadre of “old-timers” who have been inoculated to accept — and even perpetrate — ethical transgressions. A comprehensive and aggressive training program will ensure that the values detailed in the ethics code have meaning for each person in his or her job. Role playing, simulations and case examples should all be provided to demonstrate the organisation’s new commitment to the code. While this may sound pretty obvious, it is surprising to learn that even with 90% of Fortune 500 companies reporting to have codes of ethical conduct, only 45% have training programs specifically related to them.

So here’s the big uncomfortable question for Caribbean directors: To what extent has your board taken the necessary steps to ensure that your organisation’s culture reflects the ethical standards that society and its key stakeholders both expect and require? Accordingly, if you think that there is room for improvement in the way your board approaches its “ethical imperative,” you might want to consider sending your directors to one of the corporate governance training programs currently available in the region – like the extraordinarily unique three-day Chartered Director Program (“C. Dir.”) currently being offered by the Caribbean Governance Training Institute. After all, it’s not education which is expensive, but rather ignorance. •

Align Your Ethics Code With Your Performance Management Systems The final leg of the board’s role in creating an ethical work environment however involves adjusting the organisation’s performance management system – but especially for its senior management team – to include ethical behaviour as an important criterion for performance measurement, promotion and possibly even termination. This is precisely what Jack Welch did as he attempted to instill new values in GE and often commented on how he was prepared to fire any executive who, despite having “delivered on his numbers” did not “live the values.” In this regard, employee surveys need to be adjusted to measure the perception – particularly of the organisation’s front line workers – regarding the impact that leadership behaviours are having on them. In conclusion By following these simple guidelines, boards can do much to maintain or restore the trust in their organisations, which their key stakeholders – operating as customers, employees, suppliers or governments – long to have return.

Dr. Chris Bart, FCPA is a recognised global governance authority, the author of two best sellers, and co-founder of the Caribbean Governance Training Institute. The Institute is currently providing throughout the Caribbean an intensive 3-day corporate governance programme which leads to the prestigious, internationally recognised, chartered director (C. Dir.) designation. For more information visit CGTI’s website: www.caribbeangovernancetraininginstitute. com or phone Lisa at 758 451 2500

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BUSINESS TECH

D e l i vDeliver e rwhat you advertise! w h at yo u a dv e r t i s e ! A warni ng for Te l ec o m s c o m panie s

Porting will force fair pricing and better service

Porting will force fa i r p r i c i n g a n d b e tt e r s e rv i c e

Consumers in Antigua and Barbuda want companies to focus on and give priority to the delivery of value. For years, customers have been complaining about a stark difference between advertised services and what is delivered to them by telecommunications companies in Antigua and Barbuda. According to Minister of Information, Broadcasting, Telecommunications and Information Technology Melford Nicholas, companies will be held accountable when they fail to provide services advertised. Sanctions will fall under the pending telecommunications law, which he anticipates will be passed in Parliament this year. He highlighted that “there is a chapter in the Telecommunications Bill 2016 that deals with consumer protection and one of the areas where it seeks to protect consumers is that an operator may not publish or advertise facilities that it is unable to provide.” The minister made his comments in wake of the recent move by Telecommunications Company Digicel to increase by five percent, its cost for postpaid mobile services with effect from February 1st. Customers across the island condemned the move and asked for government’s intervention as they raised concern that from their experience the company is not providing stable 3G and 4G internet service as advertised. Nicholas said the government has no authority over the company in that regard, therefore, it cannot address that complaint without the passage of the bill. “We are without the legislative coverage to do anything about it at this present time, but certainly under the regulations that will be evident,” he said. “After the bill is enacted we will certainly protect consumers from that standpoint and hold any operators’ feet to the fire to ensure there is no false advertising.” He revealed that Digicel has since submitted a request to the Antigua Public Utilities Authority (APUA) Minister Robin Yearwood, seeking approval from the government since it had not done so before announcing the proposed hike. The Telecommunications Bill 2016 seeks to establish a legislative framework for the provision of the Telecommunications services in Antigua and Barbuda, for the purpose of encouraging and facilitating competition in the sector. •

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It has been talked about for a long time and consumers have been anxiously waiting. The wait is expected to end soon as the government is pushing ahead with legislation to allow consumers to switch between telecommunications service providers and keep the same mobile phone number in Antigua and Barbuda. This process of changing provider and maintaining one’s number is referred to as phone number porting – and can be done between wireline, IP and wireless providers. Minister of Telecommunications Melford Nicholas said the Telecommunications Bill 2017, which is set to be debated soon, would pave the way for this advancement. According to Nicholas, it will be “the most powerful agent” in forcing carriers to price their services fairly and further improve the quality of services delivered. During his 2017 budget debate presentation in Parliament, in early February, Nicholas explained: “If a carrier decides to raise rates on me with the full knowledge that there is a cost associated with me giving up that number and getting another operator … I can now take that number to another carrier.” He added, “Under the new Telecommunications Bill, the mobile number belongs to the consumer and not the carrier,” so there’s no frustration having to get a new phone number and being forced to accept high/increased rates and bad service. The minister meanwhile also contended that there is no truth to the claim that carriers have higher operational costs due to inflation. He was responding to at least one carrier that recently used inflation as an excuse for increasing the cost of its services. “We have heard through the prime minister’s presentation – and it can be proven – that inflation has remained around the zero percent marker, and in the last months it has dipped below and is now in negative territory. “So, when a carrier asserts the fact that they want to raise rates at 5 and 7 percent on the consumer because their costs have changed, to my mind that is a recipe for disaster for them in a competitive environment,” Nicholas said. In Antigua and Barbuda, the three mobile service providers are FLOW, Digicel and Antigua Public Utilities Authority (APUA) Inet Telecoms. •

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ECONOMY & TRADE FOCUS

Budget 2017: Building an Economic Powerhouse through Innovation, Creativity and People Participation

His Excellency Sir Rodney Williams, KCMG, Governor-General of Antigua and Barbuda Speech from the Throne, Fourth Session of Parliment "Entrepreneurial Socialism: The Foundation of an Economic Powerhouse", 9 January 2017, Parliament Building, St. John's Antigua and Barbuda

Budget 2017: Building an Economic P o w e r h o u s e t h r o u g h I n n ovat i o n , C r e at i v i t y a n d P e o p l e Pa r t i c i pat i o n The UN Economic Commission on Latin America and the Caribbean (ECLAC) projects Antigua & Barbuda will have the fastest growing economy in the Caribbean and the fourth fastest growing economy in Latin America and the Caribbean this year. In fact, in 2016, the twin island’s economy grew at the greatest rate of all of the Caribbean Community (CARICOM) countries; outpacing also, the vast majority of countries in the world with an outstanding growth rate in 2016 of 4.3 percent, according to the findings of the Eastern Caribbean Central Bank. The government remarked that this is truly an exceptional achievement. It was against this backdrop the 2017 budget was presented under the theme: Building an Economic Powerhouse through Innovation, Creativity and People Participation. DRIVERS OF GROWTH There were three principal contributors to growth in 2016. These were: construction whose value-added rose by 12 percent to $274 million; the hotel and restaurant sector that increased by 6 percent to $408 million and the wholesale and retail sector that expanded by 8 percent to $402 million. Budget allocations:

Manifesting the government’s commitment to provide the best possible health care to thee people, the Ministry of Health and the Environment receives $89 million. The sterling leadership of the Ministry of Health and staff at Mount St. John Medical Centre, has culminated in the first successful kidney transplantation in the OECS. The Ministry of Works and Housing is next at $72 million to carry out its projects and programmes. The Office of the Attorney General, Ministry of Justice and Legal Affairs, Public Safety and Labour is provided $73 million with the emphasis on keeping residents and visitors safe and secure from criminals. The Ministry of Tourism, Economic Development, Investment and Energy, which is charged with promoting and marketing our country, is allocated $31 million. These resources will be used by the Ministry to build upon the successes achieved in 2016. ALLOCATIONS FOR OTHER MINISTRIES Budgetary Allocations for the other Ministries are as follows: 1M inistry of Information, Broadcasting, Telecommunications & Information Technology: $14 million

In keeping with developing the nation’s human resources and preparing the youth to be competitive in the global community, the Ministry of Education and Technology receives the highest sum at $98 million.

2M inistry of Social Transformation & Human Resource Development: $20 million

Additional capital funding will be made available to construct a new secondary school at Tomlinson’s, commencing in the first quarter of 2017.

4 Ministry of Agriculture, Lands, Fisheries & Barbuda Affairs: $18 million

3 Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Trade: $26 million 5 Ministry of Public Utilities, Civil Aviation & Transportation: $8 million 6 Ministry of Trade, Commerce & Industry, Sports, Culture & National

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iv. Increasing monitoring and reporting on the performance of statutory corporations;

Festivals and Community Service: $23 million The 2017 budget also includes allocations for:

v. E nsuring continued, timely preparation of Government’s annual financial statements;

• Office of the Governor General: $2 million • The Legislature: $2 million

vi. Continuing to improve arrangements for procurement and contract administration with assistance from the Commonwealth Secretariat;

• The Cabinet: $3 million • The Judiciary: $2 million

vii. I mplementing incentives-based performance improvement plans, to ensure delivery of professional and cost effective service and achievement of key objectives.

• The Service Commissions: $800,000 • Audit: $1 million • Electoral Commission: $4 million

Capital Expenditure is budgeted at $106 million of which $61 million is allocated to be spent on road works. This is about $3 million more than the amount spent in 2016.

• Ombudsman: $500,000

FINANCING

• Charges on Public Debt: $476 million

The strategic focus in these ministries will continue to be the following:

In 2017, an amount of $391 million has been allocated to make principal payments to domestic and external creditors and to reduce the level of arrears. Based on the budget estimates for 2017, total revenue and grants will be $935 million while total expenditure, excluding principal payments, will be $769 million.

i. Promoting the Citizenship by Investment Programme to further increase global interest and strengthening due diligence processes, to maintain the integrity of the Antigua and Barbuda programme;

This means an overall surplus of $106 million is budgeted for Fiscal Year 2017. Given this overall surplus, the financing requirement is reduced from $391 million to $285 million.

ii. Increasing the number of registered Antigua and Barbuda flagship vessels, and increasing revenues, through the work of the Antigua and Barbuda Department of Marine Services (ADOMS);

The financing requirement for 2017 will be met by: raising $196 million from Securities issued on the Regional Government Securities Market; and loans and advances of $89 million, including disbursements of $66 million from the Caribbean Development Bank. •

• Pensions and Gratuities: $61 million

Finally, the Office of the Prime Minister is allocated $28 million and the Ministry of Finance and Corporate Governance receives $97 million.

iii. Developing a Corporate Governance policy and implementing governance training programmes;

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2017 — The Year of Advocacy

2 0 1 7 — T h e Y e a r o f A dv o c a c y By: Adlai Carrott on behalf of the Antigua and Barbuda Coalition of Service Industries

The fact that 94 percent of the country’s Gross Development Product (GDP) came from the services sector, last year, is testimony that the sector is important to nation’s economy. That’s the report from Cassandra Simon, the acting chairperson of the Antigua and Barbuda Coalition of Service Industries (ABCSI), who called upon ABCSI and its member associations to step up and increase their visibility and level of activity this year. “This sector plays an important role in our economy and more attention needs to be paid to us,” she declared, while addressing current and prospective members at the organization’s Members Forum in January. The forum was convened to re-acquaint existing members and potential newcomers with the role and objectives of the ABCSI and to chart the way forward. It was also a time to focus on the issues and challenges confronting member associations. ABCSI is a private sector driven, trade in services organization established by the Government of Antigua and Barbuda in 2011. Benefits and Accomplishments of the ABCSI The coalition also used the forum to emphasise a number of its accomplishments to date. Some of these include: Hosting of several training workshops and forums for members and the private sector. ABCSI continues to actively engage in these types of sessions all aimed at helping to build capacity within the services sector. Not only does it facilitate training locally, but has facilitated a number of service providers receiving training outside Antigua and Barbuda. Assisting groups, such as the Spa Wellness and Beauty Association, in the formation and development of associations. Facilitating grant funding for its members through its partnership with the Caribbean Export Development Agency and other regional and international funding agencies.

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Identifying potential export opportunities for service providers, the most recent being a trade mission to Martinique that explored market penetration opportunities for the professional services sector, including information technology, management consulting, engineering and architectural professionals. “To be a professional in this country is very difficult,” a member voiced. At the forum, the general membership reached the consensus that there needs to be proper standards and rules governing each association in order to protect the integrity of the various associations and their members. Simon urged the member associations to do the following: • Ensure the legal recognition of their associations • Establish by-laws and standards • Remain united within their respective association Simon further underlined the importance of the associations’ continued support for ABSCI. She said that there is strength in numbers. Going forward, ABCSI plans to regularly hold these types of forums in order to keep its members engaged, as well as encourage new membership. At such forums, different aspects of the services sector will be examined. Guest speakers will also receive invitations to deal with specialised subjects thus reinforcing the call that 2017 will be the “Year of Advocacy”. Nicholas Hadeed, a board member of the Antigua and Barbuda National Training Agency (ABNTA), delivered the forum’s feature address. Hadeed gave a frank account of the problems that have plagued the ABNTA since its creation in 2008. Hadeed said that the ABNTA is an under-resourced, underfunded enterprise that was established with noble objectives, but whose potential for nation-building has seemingly not been recognized by successive political administrations.

An Act of Parliament created the ABNTA in 2008. Its first board was convened in 2010. “The act itself is a very good one,” Hadeed said. “It is very comprehensive and clearly sets out the role, responsibilities and powers of the agency.” The aim of the legislation is to facilitate, coordinate and promote the training and development of a competent labour force. By virtue of the Act, the training agency becomes the authority that certifies workers, so that they can work locally and in other CARICOM territories. The ABNTA is the body that will offer National Vocational Qualifications (NVQs) and CARICOM Vocational Qualifications (CVQs). The body’s function is to monitor, coordinate and promote Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) in Antigua and Barbuda. Hadeed noted that approximately 75 percent of Antigua and Barbuda’s workforce performs technical and vocational work. He believed workers could benefit from certification from the ABNTA. “People think this is simply about certification,” Hadeed said. “It is far more than certification. This is about economic development, about improving the nation’s workforce, [and] about benefiting the economy. We really need to sell the idea of the significance and potential of the National Training Agency to the leaders of the country, including members of Cabinet.” Why have other national training agencies in other CARICOM and OECS countries surpassed Antigua and Barbuda’s NTA? The larger CARICOM territories of Jamaica, Trinidad and Barbados have well established and well-funded NTA’s. In the OECS, the NTA’s were suffering from a crisis of inadequate funding. However, in other jurisdictions like Grenada, the government there stepped in and

borrowed US$10 million to fund its NTA. This allowed the agency to build capacity, hire staff, train instructors, assessors and verifiers, and install systems required to meet the requirements of the CARICOM Association of National Training Agencies (CANTA) to offer CVQs, which allow Antiguan workers to be employed in other CARICOM countries. Lack of adequate funding still hampers the success of Antigua and Barbuda’s NTA. Each year, the NTA receives less than 10 percent of the EC$1.2 million required to run the agency. This has resulted in the agency’s underperformance and its failure to gain CANTA accreditation. Without CANTA’s accreditation, the NTA cannot issue CVQ’s. Despite its meager resources, the NTA has had some successes. It initiated the collaboration between The Antigua State College, LIAT and The College of The North Atlantic in Canada to develop an Aircraft Maintenance Programme at The Antigua State College. This was done in conjunction with the CARICOM Education for Employment (CEFE) Project. The NTA has run assessor training workshops and has sent persons for training in other CARICOM countries. Furthermore, the NTA was able to access funding from the Government of Columbia for training of industry personnel, Ministry of Education officials and others in the TVET profession. However, unless adequate resources are made available to the agency it will be unable to fulfill its mandate and Antiguan and Barbudan workers could be disenfranchised within Antigua and Barbuda and CARICOM. Any Association in Antigua and Barbuda desirous of joining the Antigua and Barbuda Coalition of Service Industries can contact ABCSI’s executive director at: (268) 464-9349, or email: info@abcsi. orgorantiguabarbudacsi@gmail.com. Visit www.abcsi.org or on Facebook Antigua and Barbuda Coalition of Service Industries, Inc. •

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Mar/May

Government to Enact Laws In gaming dispute

G ov e r n m e n t t o E n a c t L aw s I n g a m i n g d i s p u t e In the last two decades, online gambling rapidly gained popularity, but complex and overlapping gambling laws in the United States left its legal status ambiguous and further had damaging effects on the industry in countries like Antigua and Barbuda.

“We are very serious about it,” Browne declared. “So, if they were to come to us and say they need a little more time to come up with the proposal, or they present us with a proposal that is acceptable, then it will be a settled issue.”

So much so, the United States’ efforts to prosecute foreignbased suppliers of online gambling services prompted Antigua and Barbuda to file a complaint in the World Trade Organisation (WTO), in which it claimed that the United States had violated its General Agreement on Trade in Services (GATS) commitment to free trade in recreational services.

Amid claims the US owed in excess of US$200 million, in November 2016, government gave the United States until the end of the year to settle the long-running dispute over internet gaming, and warned of consequences if an agreement is not reached.

The WTO, ultimately, ruled in favour of Antigua and Barbuda and awarded the country the right to suspend $21 million annually in intellectual property rights held by U.S. firms. But more than a decade later, the country has not received a dollar. Instead, it has been investing thousands more to try to recoup the monies using legal channels. The fight, which spanned more than one administration in Antigua and Barbuda, has now reached the stage where Prime Minister Gaston Browne has decided that his administration will use the country’s Parliament to collect on the damages awarded by the WTO. He said steps would be taken to pass the necessary laws that will allow the twin-island to ignore United States copyrights. And, although, he said the government will not act immediately, he stressed this is just one of the options on the table that will be used.

BusinessFocus

Mar /May

But, up to December 2016, the US had not responded to the letters from the Antigua and Barbuda government requesting an update on the discussed settlement. Browne noted, “The World Trade Organisation (WTO) gives us the right to suspend intellectual property, which means that we can sell the intellectual property produced by any of their artistes, music, films -- anything which, I imagine, would not be a very good position for them. “ He added that: “And, if we have to do it, we will do it.” The journey ahead may still be a long one as the new U.S. President Donald Trump and his team has to settle in office and decide who and what is given priority. This dispute exemplifies the potential for market access commitments to have unexpected and undesirable consequences. International Trade Analyst Isaac Wohl said, “while the potential for suspending intellectual property rights as a retaliatory measure may increase the leverage of small countries in trade disputes with large countries, the implementation and management of such a suspension may be difficult and costly.” •

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Mar/May

APUA and APC sign Power generation deal

Foreign Affairs Minister Charles “Max” Fernandez and Chinese Ambassador to Antigua & Barbuda, Ren Gonping signing the land certificates to construct the Chinese Embassy

China to build new Embassy for Antigua & Barbuda

APUA Power Plant at Crabbes

China to build new Embassy For Antigua & Barbuda

APUA a n d APC sign Power g e n e r at i o n d e a l

With Antigua and Barbuda being the first country in the region to establish diplomatic ties with the Republic of China, it is a fitting surprise that the Chinese authorities announced plans to build a new embassy on the twin-island.

An official of the Antigua Public Utilities Authority (APUA) said it was inevitable for the statutory corporation to reach a settlement with the Hadeed family-owned Antigua Power Company (APC).

At a recent reception to mark the Chinese New Year on Jan. 28, Chinese officials said the embassy would be a landmark edifice constructed on five acres of land donated by the Government of Antigua and Barbuda. Foreign Affairs Minister Charles “Max” Fernandez and Chinese Ambassador to Antigua and Barbuda, Ren Gonping have already signed the land certificates to construct the Chinese Embassy. And, a nine-member team, representing the Government of the People’s Republic of China, was on island in January to assess how it will develop architectural and other plans for the construction of the embassy at Marble Hill. According to the minister, the Chinese Architectural firm, Beijing Institute of Architectural Design (BIAD) is expected to oversee the construction of the embassy. This means China will be bringing in some of its own experts. The delegation recently held its first consultations with government departments, which will be required to grant permits and licenses during the construction of the facility. In attendance were the planning manager of APUA, the chief architect at the Public Works Department (PWD), the head of the Fire Department, the Department of the Environment’s chief environmental officer, the chief town and country planner and the project manager at the Development Control Authority. The project is also expected to create opportunities for local suppliers of construction materials and construction workers. Minister Fernandez, meanwhile, called the People’s Republic of China, Antigua and Barbuda’s most important international partner, as is evident by the number of concessionary loans and grants provided to the twin island nation. •

BusinessFocus

Mar /May

APUA’s Electricity Manager Andre Matthias said, “There is a situation now where APUA does not have as much power generation capacity -- outside of contracting APC -- as we would like….” Matthias added that the situation would begin to shift in two years. The settlement brings an end to the civil court battle that the APC mounted against the government in 2009 in relation to the second phase of a joint venture agreement for the privately-owned company to supply 50.9 megawatts of electricity to the nation. The Judicial Committee of the Privy Council, eventually, ruled in favour of the APC in 2013 stating that there was a contract, which the government reneged on. The Council had, however, reverted the matter to the Antigua High Court for damages to be determined. Matthias said the issue of damages was set aside in an out-ofcourt settlement because APUA had no choice, but to make a deal with APC given that APUA does not have the capacity to generate the amount of power the nation needs. He said the new power purchase agreement (PPA) is an “excellent deal” as APUA will not have to pay any upfront damages to APC since the company is valued at US$60 million. Under the agreement, the annual guaranteed amount of energy is 130 gigawatt hours – up to February 2019 when the first part of the plant will become APUA’s property. The arrangement will continue with 170 gigawatt hours up to 2031, after which it will be turned over to APUA. The electricity manager also revealed: “The rate [to APUA] is 5.9 cents per kilowatt hour and we have negotiated that anything in excess of the minimum annual guarantee – the rate reduces to 5 cents. We have not had a rate like that in any of the previous arrangements…. We have not gone below 6 cents before.” A number of other performance clauses have been imposed on APC, including continued maintenance of the plant. •

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Mar/May

ECONOMY & TRADE FOCUS

WHERE INNO VATIVE OIL SOLUTIONS COUNT !

WIOC Expands Fuel Storage Capacity

WIOC E x pa n d s F u e l St o r a g e C a pa c i t y Gregory Georges - CEO of WIOC

West Indies Oil Company (WIOC) has commissioned a new tank to increase its storage capacity by 100,000 barrels of fuel-- just weeks after it paid approximately $5.5 million in dividends to the Government of Antigua and Barbuda. And as it celebrated these achievements, Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Gregory Georges announced that in January WIOC intends on launching Tank 45 as part of its expansion plans. The official said the expansion is scheduled to be done in March this year. “I am proud to say that in (March), another 400,000 barrels will come into service,” Georges said. “Just to drive along the Marble Hill Road and look into our terminal will show a significant amount of construction taking place.” Georges said the tank expansion will also coincide with additional upgrades and revealed that the company Sol Petroleum, which partnered with WIOC on the expansion, will use WIOC as a hub for fuel. “Sol will lease all 100,000 barrel tanks that WIOC can build,” Georges said. Sol is said to be the largest, independent petroleum marketing company in the Caribbean, with operations in over 20 countries. “We are looking to do service station upgrades in Antigua and Dominica as well,” Georges said. “We also intend to bolster our health, safety and environment culture.” In April 2015, government acquired 51 percent of the oil company’s shares, making it the majority shareholder and by December 2016, the government received a cheque for approximately XCD$5.5 million in dividends. Prime Minister Gaston Browne said: “We should continue to see significant growth in the profits of the company and we will see a dividend cheque coming to the government and people of Antigua and Barbuda every year,” he said confidently.

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Mar /May

He disclosed that the monies representing dividend shares will be invested in the government’s newest entity, the National Asset Management Company (NAMCO). “We will use those funds to invest in larger projects to create more value because ultimately the focus of my government is on value added creation, to make sure that we grow and expand our economy,” Browne explained. NAMCO will pursue large capital projects, including the completion of the car park located on Independence Avenue. Browne said that government recently negotiated the price to complete the facility from US$15 million dollars to US$6 million. Government expressed hope that the building will be completed sometime this year. Meanwhile, recently, the government of Antigua and Barbuda, through WIOC, signed an agreement with a major cruise line that would provide ships with fuel when they dock here. PM Browne, Minister of Tourism & Energy Asot Michael and representatives from WIOC and officials from the Royal Caribbean Cruise Line were signatories to the historic agreement. Currently, most of the money earned through cruise tourism comes from port fees, taxes and navigation services. Georges pointed out the significance of the initiative. “One of the larger cruise ships like the Queen Mary would take approximately 4,300 metric tons; that’s about 30,000 barrels … that’s almost like the monthly consumption of Antigua.”•

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Basic Cents IS THE PRICE RIGHT?

IS THE PRICE RIGHT?

By: Samuel Rosenberg

Many business owners fail to understand how to price their products or services within the marketplace so that their business becomes an inevitable success. On too many occasions, individuals simply look at what competitors are charging and try to undercut them to gain more business. This may not always be the best route to take. Should you decide to charge more than your competitors, you must be providing better products and services. Where you are charging less than other organisations, your customers may wonder if you are cutting corners, paying your employees less or expect to hike your prices in near future. All businesses have expenses, to run your business efficiently and effectively and for the purchase of goods that you will sell, eventually, to your customer. All owners consider their rent, utilities, labour cost, insurance and accountancy fees as part of the ongoing cost of doing business. A little

BusinessFocus

Mar /May

part of each of these costs become part of the charge you are making to your customers for your products or services. When you complete your sales targets exactly, you will make a profit because you budgeted your sales correctly. Should you fail to meet your targets, your expenses may not have changed significantly and your profits will be lower.

The pricing of your products is the single most important factor in your businessâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s financial health. It is necessary to know when your competitors are changing their prices, but only by understanding exactly what makes up your gross profit and expenses, can you price your products correctly and consistently review your outgoings, as well as your income.

One of the biggest failings within many businesses is to reduce their prices to match any actions and reactions by their competitors. When you are offering your products or services at a price that does not cover your expenses sufficiently, you may be making a loss on every sale. Conversely, should you overprice your products because you are selling them in high numbers, your customers may decide that there is a point in which they will purchase a competitorâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s product, purely because it is cheaper.

Some businesses decide to make a loss or breakeven on one or two headline products to encourage customers to purchase their products or services. This means that your customers will be paying the correct price for the other items from you which may allow you to make sufficient profit and have a longterm healthy future for your business. â&#x20AC;˘

You will see both reactions to the marketplace when a new grocery store opens in your neighbourhood. For a while they may insist on charging less than the other grocery stores, to try to attract customers. They may be losing money at this stage or at best breaking even because their prices are so low. As they increase their prices the customers may move back to the competitors. It is a fine balancing act to ensure that your prices are correct and must be consistently reviewed. When you make mistakes within your pricing, you may make significant losses, which may be acceptable when you have sufficient cash flow to see you through a difficult period to establish a business, but must be set to a correct level for you to operate profitably over a longer term.

Samuel Rosenberg is the founder and CEO of Axcel Finance Ltd., the leading regional microfinance institution. Share your thoughts and email your questions to srosenberg@axcelfinance.com

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e r u t a f e l a i c S p e N I M I S R U O T

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C r e ating O p p ortunitie s Enric h ing Li v es

Question and Answer with Hon. Asot MiQuestion and Answer chael Minister of Tourism

H o n . a s ot m i c h a e l

Caribbean Tourism Minister of the year 2016

Qu estion and Answer with Hon. Asot Micha e l, Ministe r of Tourism The economic benefits of tourism to Antigua & Barbuda are unquestioned. Tourism dominates the national economy and is the most important source of foreign exchange and foreign direct investment in the twin-island state. It underpins the country’s economic growth, accounting for two thirds of the Gross Domestic Product (GDP), 40 percent of investment, and more than half of the island’s employment opportunities. The benefits also trickle down to service providers of all kinds such as restaurants promoting local cuisine and even the farmers who supply them with fresh produce. As the Minister of Tourism, Economic Development, Investment and Energy puts it in his discussion with Business Focus, tourism is a success because of our people: Antigua and Barbuda’s warmth, beauty and hospitality are world renowned. Honorable Minister, firstly, on behalf of our Team at Business Focus we wish to offer our congratulations to you and your Team, on the recent accolades and awards being showered on Antigua & Barbuda as a growing tourist destination. Thank you for agreeing to have a chat with us about tourism in Antigua & Barbuda. BF : Tourism has been for some time, the single largest sector and driver of economic activity in Antigua and Barbuda. In recent years, we have seen significant growth and a new sense of enthusiasm in the tourism industry generally.

BusinessFocus

Mar /May

Can you tell us what is different about Antigua & Barbuda as a tourist destination today, and what is driving this growth? AM: Our Government was elected in 2014 on our promise to bring a renewed energy and focus to the business of tourism. And when I was asked to handle the tourism portfolio by my Prime Minister and colleagues, I had no illusion about the enormity and urgency of the responsibility. It was clear to me that our destination had lost its competitive edge and that it could not be business as usual. There are four main objectives that I have pursued as the Minister responsible for Tourism. They are: (1) attracting new tourism investments which will ensure that we increase our number of quality and sellable rooms; (2) increasing airlift to take advantage of our new first class facility the Sir V.C Bird International Airport; (3) the cleaning up and redevelopment of downtown St. John’s and the Cruise Harbour; and (4) strengthening the operations and productivity of our tourism team at home and abroad. I believe we are making progress in all four areas. The emergence of the CIP as a new source of investment for product improvement has also helped. Thus, a sort of “buzz” has been created both locally and in the marketplace. BF: Your Government has embarked on major infrastructure port development to support increased arrivals by both air and sea. Construction of the new V.C. Bird International Airport allows for handling of increased capacity.

What does airport modernization mean to your marketing efforts with international carriers to service the island and provide increased airlift from current and new source markets? AM: Airlift is vitally important, as having affordable and convenient air access to Antigua and Barbuda is critical to our efforts in driving air arrivals into the destination. It is impossible to increase our arrivals without sufficient air bridges to the target markets. Without the critical mass of passengers, it is extremely challenging to grow airlift and just maintaining the routes we have is difficult enough. Along with the need for additional hotel rooms, our airport is one of the most important tools in this endeavour. The new Sir V.C Bird International Airport provides travellers with the best-in-class in travel technology and experience, with all the modern amenities. This in itself has been a catalyst for the interest being shown by new airlines, with some 7 new carriers now serving our destination since the opening of the airport just over a year ago. We believe that we have not yet exhausted the potential in our main source markets, so our priority is to increase the lift from our existing carriers and expand into other gateways that they serve. For example, out of North America we are actively looking at new gateways such as Boston, Chicago, Houston and Fort Lauderdale in the USA. We are also seeking to resume service from Montreal in Canada, while at the same time evaluating the airlift from existing gateways such as New York and Miami to ensure that

our available seats, and class of service into the destination grows in tandem with the projected growth of new hotel rooms and demands of the market. The same is true for Europe where our efforts in Italy means we are now the largest overseas tourism market for Italians in the Eastern Caribbean with non-stop flights weekly from Milan for 10 months of the year. BF: You have repeatedly mentioned the need for new investment in the hotel sector. What are some of the new hotels and international brands that have been confirmed as new investors in Antigua & Barbuda?

this summer. For Half Moon Bay, the principals of the Replay Group have completed the land transactions and design plans are well underway. Other announced projects include the Karisma hotel group project at Valley Church Bay, Labahia Hotel Resort and Condominiums currently under construction at Marble Hill Rd, and the Royalton Resort by the Sun Wing Group which we expect to see starting their project here later this year. BF: Tell us about the Cruise Port Development project and what it means to your cruise marketing efforts.

AM: New hotel construction and improvement to existing product are critical for both an increase in airlift as well as remaining competitive and attracting new visitors. Our goal as an administration is to double our current room capacity to approximately 6000 over the next few years. We must create critical mass if we are to sustain airlift grow arrivals in the hotel sector. We have been strategically seeking new investments that have resulted in the announcement of multiple new properties. At the forefront is Hodges Bay Resort that will be opening later this year, with 75 rooms as well as oceanfront homes, penthouses and suites.

AM: Cruise tourism is the sector where Antigua was literally going backwards with market-share. Prior to our recent efforts, our port simply could not accommodate the larger ships. There was a desperate need to deepen our harbour and lengthen our berthing so we could quickly begin to accommodate larger ships, at least at the quantum class level. My predecessor was warned by the cruise line executives that without improving our port infrastructure, Antigua had no chance of achieving growth of cruise arrivals. But the past Government did nothing about it. So, redeveloping both the Port and the City of St. John's is one of the main reasons we were elected and is a major priority for me.

Last year we announced that the prestigious global hospitality brand, Marriott, will be opening a new property for their Autograph collection, Coconut Beach Resort, which we hope will be opened in the next 24 months. Pearns Point, a $300 million high-end development and project has proven to be highly successful with the first show villas expected to be completed by

We were very excited last December to welcome Royal Caribbean’s Anthem of the Seas on the same day as the unveiling of the first phase of our port construction. Phase two of this plan will see the complete redevelopment of the downtown city of St John’s. There is still a tremendous amount of work to be done if we are to return Antigua to the marquis status it once enjoyed in

the cruise industry. Our aim is to surpass the 1 Million passenger target for cruise passengers in the next 2-3 years. BF : Antigua & Barbuda has now won the Award as “the Most Romantic Destination of the Year” for two consecutive years, reflecting a surge in the arrivals of couples for weddings, and honeymoons. Are the new properties being developed primarily to service this high demand sector? AM: Antigua and Barbuda has a long and storied history with the romance market. We host the most weddings per capita in the world. Intrinsically, we have much to offer as a destination to this important market: 365 stunning beaches, perfect weather throughout the year, a full portfolio of properties that appeal to those seeking to start, renew or strengthen their relationships, and the easiest legal process in the region to get married. Winning ‘The Most Romantic Destination of the Year,’ for two consecutive years is recognition of all the hard work we have put into place in highlighting our strengths to our visitors and to the industry. The strength of our destination is that almost every local hotel caters in some way to the Weddings and Honeymoon market by ensuring that we provide a first-class service and every possible service needed to ensure couples can tie the knot and celebrate their nuptials in style. This is why our visitors and overseas partners have bestowed accolades on us time and time again. It is likely that all the Hotels that will open in the future will also have romance on their BusinessFocus

Mar/May

FEATURE

Question and Answer with Minister Asot Michael cont'd

menu of services. For some it will be a high priority, and for others it will not. BF: How has the CIP impacted the development of Tourism in Antigua & Barbuda? AM: Our goal is to position our country as one of the best investment destinations in the World. We believe in “investment tourism” where high net-worth visitors will come on vacation and end up purchasing real estate or setting up businesses in Antigua and Barbuda for our mutual benefit. Unfortunately, traditional sources of equity and debt financing for resort development have become extremely difficult to source and tap into. Fortunately, the CIP Programme has now become a new channel for attracting investment in new properties and for renovating older ones. Many of the properties that are coming online over the coming months are being financed in collaboration with the CIP Programme. Since taking office, our Cabinet has approved several private investment projects valued in excess of US $3 billion. In addition to bringing additional stayover rooms to the island, the CIP programme has also been tapped to fund some of our more unique marketing efforts. For example, in 2016 we announced the joint-venture launch of Golden Island Filmworks Ltd, an independent feature film finance and production entity run by Hollywood producer Rudy Langlais. This arrangement serves as an unprecedented film financing model and will result in an initial slate of five films being produced in Antigua and Barbuda. This is another creative use of the CIP to generate investment and introduce a new industry to Antigua and Barbuda. BF: With the projected growth in the hotel plant, there will be significant opportunities for employment in the sector. What programmes are being put in place to train and develop the local talent pool to maximize on these opportunities? AM: There can be no tourism success without service and value. Service is absolutely critical. It is what can set us apart from the competition, and it is what creates an exceptional memorable experience that inspires our visitors to share their positive stories with friends and family. With service being this critical, we have a variety of tourism training programs in Antigua and Barbuda - so as to ensure that we continue providing the absolute best in service, as well as providing the opportunity for a flourishing career in our growing youth population. For example we have the Tourism Cadet Programme, and the OECS’ Center of Excellence for Hospitality Training. The Antigua and Barbuda Hospitality Training Institute (ABHTI) is an outstanding institution that is centre to our service training efforts. BusinessFocus

Mar /May

BF: The local private sector is considered to be the engine of growth in the economy. What incentives are being offered to local entrepreneurs to venture into making investments in the tourism sector? AM: We have a progressive menu of incentives offered to local entrepreneurs and I can safely say our Government is business-friendly and investment-supportive. The process is largely managed by the Antigua and Barbuda Investment Authority which fall under the umbrella of the Ministry of Tourism Economic Development Investment and Energy. The Antigua & Barbuda Investment Authority (ABIA) is a “One-Stop-Shop” Government investment promotion agency for both local and foreign investors. It is a statutory body formed under the Investment Authority Act of 2006. It guides investors through the procedures and approvals necessary for the successful establishment of their businesses in Antigua & Barbuda.

BF: Antigua & Barbuda is one of the major shareholders and the home base of the regional airline LIAT. The airline continues to be plagued with problems although it has recently seen major capital investment from shareholder governments and the introduction of a new fleet of aircraft. In what way(s) has your Ministry been working with LIAT and other regional airlines to ensure market demands are adequately met and to grow arrivals into Antigua and Barbuda?

Investor Incentives are based on the size of capital investment and the number of persons who will be employed as a result of the project. The generous list of incentives include:

AM: The Caribbean market is important to Antigua and Barbuda, and ranks third in our stayover arrivals. We cannot access that market without LIAT. Antigua and Barbuda is also a major hub for LIAT, a company that provides hundreds of jobs and livelihoods for our people. LIAT is therefore a critical partner in presenting Antigua & Barbuda as a destination to our Caribbean neighbours. We want the Sir V.C Bird International Airport to continue to attract more airlift from new markets, as well as become the aviation hub of the Eastern Caribbean.

a. Exemption from or reduction of payment of duty on the importation or purchase of raw materials, building materials, furniture, fixtures, fittings, appliances, machinery, plant and equipment for use in the construction and operation of the business.

It is important that we continue to work and collaborate closely with LIAT and the other local and regional carriers to ensure that multiple, convenient and affordable options are available to fly to Antigua and Barbuda in quick time from the rest of the region.

b. Exemption from or reduction of duty on the importation or purchase of vehicles for use in the operation of the business.

BF: St John’s Harbor is being re-developed to handle increased cruise ship arrivals. We note that there can be as many as four or five cruise ships in the Port on a given day.

eduction of property tax in respect of land c. R and buildings used in the operation of the business. d. Exemption from or reduction of payment of income tax under the Income Tax Act. e. Reduction of Stamp duty payable by the purchaser or transferee, and by the vendor or transferor of land. f. Reduction of stamp duty under the NonCitizens Land Holdings Regulation Act. g. Exemption from or reduction of withholding tax on dividends, etc. under the Income Tax Act

What systems are being put in place to expand the services offered by our artisans and the commercial community in the city of St John’s to maximize on the potential spend of the visitors? AM: The main goal of increasing the number of cruise visitors is to strengthen the economy and improve livelihoods for all tourism stakeholders. Increasing the on-island spend is key. It is also important to use the cruise industry as a showcase of our culture, talent and creativity so that the cruise passengers can get at least a little taste of what Antigua offers to stayover visitors. We have incorporated the involvement of cultural dancers and our music to ensure that

our visitors get an authentic taste and feel for Antigua and Barbuda. The small business opportunities that will accompany the St. John's Harbour improvements will be tremendous. It includes a total transformation of the Port area with space reserved for cafés, restaurants, shops, smaller vendors and transportation dispatching. It will also include the construction of 3 distinct town squares, new monuments and a trolley car system, to make traveling around seamless and expeditious. There will also be a modern, stateof-the-art visitor center. Over the coming years, by building out this downtown masterplan, St. John’s will become more inviting for expenditure by both locals and visitors alike – from both cruise ships and those staying overnight. However local businesses also need to play their part in ensuring that they offer authentic and unique products which are always in high demand by our visitors. BF: Crime and Visitor Harassment and Safety are critical to the longevity and success of the tourism industry. What measures are being implemented to ensure the safety of our visitors to the island? AM: Ensuring the safety of citizens, residents and visitors is our Government’s top priority. Crime, unfortunately, is an issue in every country around the world. We have an incredibly effective Police Force and Defence Force, that diligently works to protect citizens and visitors, and that we have full trust in. Antigua and Barbuda in fact has some of the lowest crime stats in the entire Caribbean region. However, our Government is taking a holistic approach to the issue of managing crime in our country. Growing the economy, creating wealth and jobs, and reducing poverty are all critical areas of our overall efforts. The philosophy of our Labour Party administration speaks to helping the needy with no one being left behind in our quest to become the 'Economic Powerhouse' of our region. Getting and keeping our young

people employed, and involved in constructive educational and sporting endeavours will be critical to our success. BF: A pristine environment is a critical component to ensure sustainable tourism. What measures are being put in place to sensitize residents and the entire commercial community to practice responsible waste disposal and the benefits and importance of protecting our environment? AM: Antigua and Barbuda has adopted a strategy that establishes a clear vision, shortmedium-long term objectives and an action agenda to ensure that Antigua and Barbuda has a completely sustainable tourism programme and that Barbuda remains the 'greenest' island in the region with 100% of the needed energy from renewable energy. Barbuda is already one of the most environmentally healthy islands in the region and we intend to keep it that way. Our goal is to advance international cooperation to enable private and public sector investment in the renewable energy sector. Specifically, we have been upgrading electricity grids, greater energy efficiency, and wind and solar energy development. The Government enacted the Antigua and Barbuda Renewable Energy Act in 2015 that promotes the progression towards sustainable energy by allowing consumers utilizing renewable energy – such as wind, solar, or biomass – to interconnect into the national grid. We have also enacted the National Energy Council, which is a multi-sectorial agency bringing together major energy stakeholders in the public and private sectors to review technical and policy issues geared towards Antigua and Barbuda becoming a green energy leader in the Caribbean. We have a calendar of activities to further engage with the local community about the importance of sustainable tourism. In February, we launched Antigua and Barbuda’s Natural and Cultural Heritage Museum, in March we will be opening the John Hughes Community Tourism Project, in

May we will air a documentary on, Sustainable Tourism in Antigua and Barbuda, in June we will launch Antigua and Barbuda’s Green Corridor, in September we have World Tourism Day and in November we will be highlighting Green Tourism Businesses. Additionally, our Green Corridor project, is a marketing and branding campaign geared toward the businesses in the Southwestern quadrant of Antigua. It will encourage our evergrowing sustainability minded resident and traveler to visit this area for the ‘Green’ hotels, local food and craft businesses. We already have 17 different properties and businesses who are participating in the Green Corridor. BF: Finally, Mr. Minister – What message would you like to share with the people of Antigua & Barbuda in their role as Tourism Ambassadors to support the efforts of you and your team in ensuring the continued success and sustainability of tourism for the future? AM: As the Minister of Tourism I am simply a servant of the people. It is our people in general, and tourism stakeholders specifically, who must show by their actions that they want tourism to continue to grow and ultimately help to improve the livelihoods of our citizens. The key point here is that the economic health of our nation relies on the sustainability of our tourism industry. Tourism contributes approximately 60% to our GDP and accounts for roughly 53% of the workforce of Antigua and Barbuda. One of our greatest assets is the warmth and friendliness of our people and it is the positive interactions with our people that causes our visitors to say that, ‘an Antigua & Barbuda experience is magical’. So, I encourage everyone to remember this and to share their enthusiasm and love for our twin-island nation with every visitor they interact with, and with each other. All of us can become Tourism Ambassadors by sharing our positive stories and telling the world why Antigua and Barbuda is the place to be. • BusinessFocus

Mar/May

Antigua & B arbuda Wins Three Travel Awards Including

“Destination of the Year”

The hard work and investment of the Antigua and Barbuda Tourism Authority (ABTA) and the country’s Ministry of Tourism, have led to double-digit growth in air arrivals from the USA and attracted new properties, including the Marriott global hospitality brand.

At the 2016 Caribbean Travel Awards, the Caribbean Journal recognized these successes and named Colin C. James, the Executive Officer of ABTA,Includ“Caribbean Tourism Director Antigua & Barbuda WinsChief Three Travel Awards of the Year,” while Asot A. Michael, the Tourism Minister, ing “Destination of the Year” received the accolade of “Caribbean Minister of the Year.” The country also copped the award for “Caribbean Destination of the Year.” The Caribbean Journal, which was founded in 2011, is the first pan-Caribbean newspaper with cutting edge analysis, unmatched original content and on-location videos. The publication has changed the way the Caribbean receives its news, and today is one of the leading publications in the Caribbean market. Explaining why the country won, the Caribbean Journal said, "It is because of the strong increase in visitors, new hotel projects in the pipeline, as well as the new V.C. Bird International Airport that only add to the full portfolio of properties and hotels." Minister Michael was recognised as being one of “the Caribbean’s most forward-thinking Tourism Ministers” and being instrumental in helping to drive Antigua and Barbuda’s strong growth this year, as well as turning the nation into a hub for hotel projects and other major projects, such as the airport’s new solar farm. “I am incredibly honoured to be named the Tourism Minister of the Year by the Caribbean Journal,” Michael said. “Since taking office in 2014, we have been relentlessly working to attract investments, investing in improving our on-island tourism products as well as access touch points, including our new airport and our Port so as to become the leader in the region. While we are excited by what we have achieved so far, we are dedicated to continuing to invest, improve and raise awareness of Antigua and Barbuda to attract even more visitors and provide them the absolutely best experience possible in travel.” James, coveted his win for “being instrumental in managing the Tourism Authority to the strong position it has today with almost 10 percent growth overall and 20 percent within the US, the largest market for the destination.” James shared his thoughts on the win: “We are very proud to be recognised for all of the hard work and dedication that the Ministry of Tourism and the Antigua and Barbuda Tourism Authority have been investing, to turn our twinisles into the regional tourism leader. “I am proud of this recognition, which is accepted on behalf of all our tourism teams, both on island and in the source markets, [which] have worked tirelessly to achieve the positive growth that we are seeing.” These awards bring great prominence to Antigua and Barbuda, positioning the destination as the tourism leader in the industry for the upcoming year. • BusinessFocus

Mar /May

C urta in Blu f f Hotel

J olly Beach Hote l BusinessFocus

Mar/May

Anti g u a & B a rbu d a — An A wa r d Winnin g D e stin ation Five Awards for Top Resorts in The Caribbean Fi v e A wa r d s f or To p R e sorts in T h e C a ribb e a n

Carlisle Bay

Jumby Bay (Rosewood)

Blue Waters Resort & Spa

Carlisle Bay

Antigua & Barbuda — An Award Winning Destination Five Awards for Top Resorts in The Caribbean Antigua and Barbuda’s leading properties were recognised by Condé Nast Traveler’s 29th Annual Readers’ Choice Awards as the top-rated resorts in the Caribbean last year.

we will have even more properties recognized and awarded as these properties are only a sampling of what we have to offer,” James added.

The Condé Nast Traveler Annual Readers’ Choice Awards are the longest-running and most prestigious reader’s nominated awards in the industry. For the 29th Annual Awards more than 300,000 world travelers took part – the most ever to date – leaving over 75,000 comments on more than 20,000 listings, including 7,394 hotels and resorts, 236 islands, and an average survey time of 8.4 minutes to create the list of winning favourites.

Recently voted the Caribbean’s “Most Romantic Destination” by the World Travel Awards, for the second consecutive year, the twin-island destination of Antigua and Barbuda has been having a record-breaking year in visitors. People are flocking to the newest hotspot in the Caribbean, with easy access via multiple gateways across the US, Canada, UK & Europe, and Caribbean, a variety of resorts and properties to fit every price point, over 120 dining options and 365 pristine white and pink sand beaches to choose from. Antigua and Barbuda has something for everyone while offering the intimacy and safety of a smaller destination, attracting those who want something new and different for their vacation. To find out more about this twin-island destination visit, visitantiguabarbuda.com, your preferred travel agent or online booking engine today.

The five resorts awarded ‘Top Resorts in the Caribbean’ are: Jumby Bay (Rosewood), Blue Waters Resort & Spa, Carlisle Bay, Sandals Grande Antigua, and Curtain Bluff Resort. “We are very proud of these five awards for our resorts as it truly signifies that Antigua and Barbuda are providing visitors with the top travel and hospitality experience possible in the Caribbean. It is particularly special for us that these awards are voted on by the people who are visiting, signifying that we are doing something right,” said Colin C. James, CEO, Antigua and Barbuda Tourism Authority.” He noted that the voters declared a passion for the authentic, the personal, the unexpected – all three of which are intrinsic to the twin island nation. “We continue to invest, improve and raise awareness of Antigua and Barbuda to attract even more visitors and provide them the absolutely best in travel. Hopefully next year, BusinessFocus

Mar /May

Antigua and Barbuda Recognized with Prestigious Award and Assert Dominance at Media Marketplace The destination of Antigua and Barbuda is continuing its path towards successfully dominating Caribbean Week 2016 by winning an award on June 2, at the Media Awards luncheon and displaying a stunning and engaging presence at the ‘Media Marketplace.’ Caribbean Week is the largest, most engaging

regional tourism activity in the greater New York and US market, and typically attracts thousands of participants that results in extensive media coverage of the various events at a local, national, and international audiences that reaches millions. Now in its 43rd year, the week-long event, organized by the CTO (Caribbean Tourism Organisation) showcases the sights, sounds, colors, culture and unique experiences of the Caribbean. It is a unique platform to interact with Caribbean government and tourism officials, the media, artists, performers, celebrity chefs, investors and stakeholders, particularly in combining business sessions and consumer-oriented events. The Caribbean Media Awards Luncheon recognises media for positive coverage of the Caribbean and for influencing their readers to travel to the Caribbean. Held at the New York Marriott Marquis, there are nine categories as well as a “Best in Show”’ winners. Antigua and Barbuda was presented with the “Golden Mic” award that was presented to Valeria D’Elia from New York 1 News for her broadcast feature, “Experiencing Antigua Like a Local.” This is an incredible achievement considering there were over 140 entries for the nine categories of awards, and the first time Antigua and Barbuda has won this award. On-hand to accept the award in Valerie D’Elia’s absence were Antigua and Barbuda Tourism Authority (ABTA) CEO, Colin C. James and Tourism Consultant Shirlene Nibbs.

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Antigua & Barbuda Recognized with Prestigious Award and Assert Dominance at Media Marketplace

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Sandals Grande Antigua Curtain Bluff

Sandals Grande Antigua In addition to the awards ceremonies, the CTO held the Media Marketplace, a three-hour open forum for media to attend so as to network with the different participating regions, and find out the latest news from them directly. Antigua and Barbuda had the largest presence at the

Curtain Bluff Resort

market, hosting a double-booth, designed to attract passersby with colourful, enticing images, banners and branded giveaways as well as former Miss Antigua and Barbuda dressed in Carnival costumes to promote Carnival 60 and the opportunity to experience tasty

delights from Antiguan Chefs Melvin Myers and Christopher Terry, and rising star pastry chef, Zinzi Mpande, recent winner of the “U.S. Pastry Chef Champion.” •

South Coast Horizons

BusinessFocus

Mar/May

Antigua Surpasses 100,000 US Stay-over Visitors for 2016

“

Let your adventure begin...

Antigua and Barbuda ended 2016 on a high note by celebrating the arrival of the 100,000th U.S. visitor in the year, for the first time in recorded arrivals history. Tourism officials are describing this milestone as a crowning achievement in a banner year for tourism that included the re-opening of Pineapple Beach Club, breaking ground on new projects, such as the Marriott Autograph Property and the extension of the Heritage Quay Pier that welcomed for the first time, the Anthem of the Seas, a Quantum-class vessel.

The 100,000th U.S. visitor, who arrived late December, was Jean Larsen – an artist and philanthropist working with Pink Rock, a breast cancer survivor charity. Larsen, who was travelling with her partner, Greg Murphy on American Airlines flight 978 from New York-JFK to V.C. Bird International Airport, was greeted with flowers and prizes by Minister of Tourism, Economic Development, Investment BusinessFocus

Mar /May

Tourism arrivals from the United States have been strong throughout the year... and Energy Asot Michael, Chief Executive Officer of the Antigua and Barbuda Tourism Authority Colin C. James, Tourism Consultant Shirlene Nibbs, U.S. Director of Tourism Kim Jack Riley and Tourism Cadet Alicia Paul. In honour of this milestone, partners Elite Island Resorts and Pineapple Beach Club Antigua, gifted the couple with the grand prize of a complimentary three-night stay for two at Antigua's newest all-inclusive resort. She also received a circumnavigation tour for two from Wadadli Cats and a kayak and snorkeling tour for two from South Coast Horizons. The other passengers on Larsen’s flight were also treated to special music and performances from dancers, as well as a gift bag filled with local delicacies and a discount code for island tours to complement their stays. Minster Michael shared his joy at reaching this landmark: "Despite trends across the region showing a decrease in visitor arrivals and spend,

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Antigua Surpasses 100,000 US Stay-over Visitors for 2016

our twin-isle nation is defying the odds and showing significant growth in both, including double-digit growth from the U.S. market. Antigua and Barbuda is asserting itself as the new leader in the Caribbean, from new properties to a growing cruise market, to increased airlift and we predict 2017 will be an even stronger year in tourism."

Tourism arrivals from the United States have been strong throughout the year, with doubledigit growth month over month. According to the latest statistics, at the end of November 2016, arrivals from the U.S. had seen an 18.35 percent year-over-year increase. This growth is particularly significant as the U.S. remains Antigua and Barbuda's largest source market for arrivals. Overall, visitor arrivals have also increased by a strong 6 plus percent growth ending December 2016. Total Air arrivals at end of December 2016 tallied 265,187, an increase of 14,737 more visitors compared to the 250,450 passengers who arrived in 2015. •

Scotiabank

People in Tourism Five Awards for Top of Resorts in The Caribbean M inistry Tourism

People in Tourism Ministry of Tourism

Mr s . P e t l e y K n i gh t

Mr . S t. C l a i r S o l e y n

Policy and Project Specialist

Mr s . Va s h t i R a m s e y - C a s i m i r Snr. Tech Officer Sustainable Tourism Unit

M s . V e n e t ta B u r t o n

Mgr. Tourism Edu. Awareness & Training

M s . A n n e t t e Af l a k

Mr s . D u l c i e L o o b y - G r e e n e

Special Projects Coordinator

Small Properties Coordinator

Ms. D. Annette Michael

M s . T. S a m o ya K i rb y

Communications Officer

Product Development Officer

Ms. Karen Joseph

Mr s . Av o n e l l e A l fr e d

M s . F . C . Sh a n t i a W e at h e r i l l

Customer Care Public Relations Officer

Sports Tourism Officer

BusinessFocus

Mar /May

Tourism Research Officer

Coordinator Barbuda Affairs

M s . D a r l e n e L ay

Tourism Standards Officer

Tourism I nnovator B rinTourism g s Y ea rs Tourism Innovator Brings Years of Caribbean Experience Change Leadership Expertise o f and C aribb e an Tourism E xp eri e nc e

a n d C h a n g e L e ad ers h i p Exp e rtis e

Richard Skerritt Chairman of the Board

ABTA Board Members

A B TA B O A R D M E M B E R S

L e b r e c h t H e ss e

Whitfield Harris

Pa u l a F r e d e r i c k - H u n t e

A r l e n e E d wa r d s

Deputy Chairman

Director

Andrew Hedley Director

Director

N at h a n D u n d a s Director

BusinessFocus

Mar/May

The place to be... Caribbean Tourism Director of the year 2016

Colin C. James CEO of ABTA

Colin C. James leads the ABTA Team

C O lin c . j a m e s l e a d s t h e a bta t e a m

M ata r a T h o m a s Personal Assistant to the CEO & Office Administrator

K e ro n F r a n c i s Tour Guide & Driver

Francine Joseph Tour Guide BusinessFocus

Mar /May

M a r i a B l ac k m a n Marketing Communications Executive

Charmaine Spencer Marketing Manager

Mauricia Frith Marketing Assistant

R ay n e l C a r ro l l Marketing Assistant

Di g ita lmarketing Pl atTEAM f orm ABTA LOCAL

team

Digital Platform Team

Abena Merchant Coordinator of Online Marketing

Meserete Uzondu Technical Officer

Shamoi Richards Technical Officer

R e n e e A m b ro s e Technical Officer

B r a n d o n E d wa r d s Technical Officer

S h e ry D u b i q u e Technical Officer

ABTA Overseas Marketing Leadership

AABTA B TAoverseas o v emarketing rs e a sTEAM m a r k e tin g L e a d e rs h i p

K i m J ac k - r i l e y Director of Tourism USA

Cherrie osborne Director of Tourism UK & Europe

Colin skerritt Director of Tourism Canada

J e a n - m a r c f l a m b e rt VP Sales & Marketing - UK & Europe BusinessFocus

Mar/May

Anti g ua An d B a rbu da … Ali v e For C a ribbea n Visitors ! By: Charmaine Spencer This year is the 60th Anniversary of Antigua visit to And Antigua and Barbuda?” TheFor answer The twin-island of Antigua and Barbuda isAntigua Barbuda…Alive Caribbean Visitors! synonymous with romance and adventure. is simple – plenty! Antigua and Barbuda and Barbuda’s Carnival, The Caribbean’s Situated in the middle of the Caribbean boasts some of the world’s most spectacular Greatest Summer Festival. For the milestone archipelago, Antigua and Barbuda is coastline, with their 365 white and pink sand year, you can look forward to an explosion of affectionately known as the, “Heart of the beaches, and exotic scenic vistas, which have colour, music and artistry sure to excite and Caribbean” – both for its central location and made these islands the Caribbean’s Most entertain. Romantic Destination for two years in a row. for its unparalleled warmth and charm. SAVE THE DATE – 28 July – 8 August: Party According to the Eastern Caribbean Central Bank (ECCB), Antigua and Barbuda is also the largest economy in the Organisation of Eastern Caribbean States (OECS), with the driving force of the islands’ economy being tourism. For the past two years, regional travel has played a major part in the tourism growth being experienced by the destination. Caribbean visitor arrivals exhibited significant year-onyear growth having grown by +11.3 percent to 33,898 at the end of December 2016 - up from 30,460 in December of 2015.

This recent growth in visitor arrivals has positioned the Caribbean as the third largest tourism source market for Antigua and Barbuda. The United States, the United Kingdom and the Caribbean are now the three main source markets for Antigua and Barbuda. Arrivals from the United States contributed to 35 percent of the total number of visitors in QTR4 2016. While, the United Kingdom accounted for 34 percent and the Caribbean 12 percent. This growing figure does not include the many Caribbean visitors who also travel to the destination via cruises for a welcome day trip. This growth in Caribbean arrivals can be directly attributed to an increased push by the Antigua & Barbuda Tourism Authority (ABTA) in regional marketing, promotions and airlift connectivity. Due to its strategic location, Antigua and Barbuda has also long become a sub-regional hub for international travel, and is a well-established gateway to the Eastern Caribbean and home of the regional airline, LIAT. With the new V.C Bird International Airport being one of the largest and most modern airport facilities in the Caribbean, there is still potential for Antigua and Barbuda to increase its connectivity throughout the Caribbean. The obvious question to be answered is, “What is there to do for Caribbean travellers on a BusinessFocus

Mar /May

Made legendary for its party-style cricket at the Antigua Recreation Grounds, and exhilarating sailing calendar, a new generation of events and good times has once again breathed life into the islands. Antigua’s Carnival - The Caribbean’s Greatest Summer Festival is the biggest event on the calendar, and has the tongues wagging of all who have participated.

lovers will embrace the nightly entertainment, pageantry, and costume parades as this energetic festival climaxes on Carnival Monday and Tuesday. For more information visit: www. antiguacarnival.com

There’s no excuse imaginable for missing Antigua’s Carnival; there are four months to choose from, so take your pick! Carnival in Antigua is truly an entire season of its own. As North America has its summer season, so too do we have Carnival.

Rum: The aged 5-year-old English Harbour Rum is the rum of choice, on a night out in Antigua. Re-live your experience of the famed Shirley Heights Sunset BBQ Party, and the English Harbour views, by mixing up your very own fruity rum cocktail.

The season starts with the fetes! It is said that there are statistically 10 fetes to suit everyone’s taste during Antigua’s Carnival season, as well as a beach for every day of the year. And both can be proven! Late May is when it all begins, with numerous events to choose from that lead up to Carnival. Many loyalists attend to hear the newest tunes of the season and get themselves into the Carnival spirit. The mega-events on the fete calendar draw huge crowds of ‘bacchanalists’, whose main objectives during Carnival are to come, to party, and to conquer. Many travel from the neighbouring islands for weekend getaways in June and July, way before the official start of Carnival, as there is always something to do at any given point of the season. The production quality at events blows everyone’s mind, where the aim is to make every fete bigger and better than the year before. Every soca hit-maker imaginable graces the stage in Antigua, melting the crowd into a puree, who have waited in great anticipation for their turn to fete. Local artistes bring energy and bliss to the spirits of fete-goers, and the feeling of euphoria is contagious as your head spins with joy; there’s no better place to be than Antigua at this time of year!

And When You Come Here’s a List of 5 Souvenir Items To Take Home From Antigua & Barbuda:

Hot Sauce: A well-loved local product, the island’s most popular hot sauce is the spicy Susie’s Hot Sauce, founded by Susie Tonge in the 1960s, and now operated by her daughter. This is a must-try for anyone visiting the island and can be found in any supermarket or restaurant. Pink Sand: The unique pink sand glistening from Barbuda’s pristine beaches will not be easily forgotten, but just in case, purchase a bottle of the pink sand as a souvenir of the visit. Hand-made products: St. John’s is filled with vendors selling a multitude of items from souvenir t-shirts to beaded jewellery, island rum and more. Search out hand-crafted items, such as the traditional Warri boards, straw products, hand-painted shak-shaks and wood carvings. Local Art: Art galleries dot the island, with each gallery featuring artwork by residents of Antigua and Barbuda. Don’t leave Antigua and Barbuda without collecting your very own signature piece reflecting the beauty of the islands. •

Unveiling the Cruise Infrastructure Master Plan

Photo: AnTigua & Barbuda High commission London

U n ve ilin g t h e Cruis e I nf ra structur e M a st e r Pl an A US$90 million Master Plan for the phased investment into the cruise infrastructure in Antigua and Barbuda is being implemented as the country aims to increase cruise passenger-visitors by at least 10 percent next season.

This included maintenance dredging, lengthening and strengthening the Heritage Pier to allow for the berthing of larger ships, up to a Quantum-class size, as well as major improvements to Antigua’s facilities and downtown area.

New elements of the plan include plans to create a new cruise destination on sister island Barbuda. The new beach-focused, outerisland cruise destination is designed to deliver an authentic and unprecedented experience for an Eastern Caribbean cruise itinerary and to newly position Barbuda on the regional cruise map.

This allowed for the arrival of Royal Caribbean’s ‘Anthem of the Seas’ in December 2016 heralding the start of what is expected to be a new growth phase for the Antiguan cruise sector. Other elements of the master plan include further dredging of the approach channel and turning basin area, the creation of a fifth berth, and land reclamation to help with major improvements to pedestrian and vehicle flows, town aesthetics, tour operations and shopping. •

Works for the masterplan commenced in 2016 with a US $50 million investment on the main Antigua harbour in the capital, St. Johns.

Crab Hole Liquors BWC Enterprise

BusinessFocus

Mar/May

The New V. C. Bird International Airport

T h e N e w V. C B ir d I nt e rn ation a l Air p ort

An Attraction for Increased Arrivals & Regional Hub The opening of the state-of-the-art $97-million V.C Bird International Airport in the summer of 2015 has allowed for increased passenger traffic to Antigua, helping to raise the island's profile among destination markets in the Caribbean. Visitation has grown at a compounded annual average growth rate of three percent over the last seven years, with the vast majority of tourists arriving from the U.S. and Europe, according to data for 2016 from the Antigua Hotel and Tourism Association. When compared with the same period of 2015, tourist arrivals increased approximately 6.5 percent in the year-to-date December 2016 period. This trend is expected to continue as increased tourist demand to Antigua prompts airlines to provide additional lift and developers to build new hotels, and the new terminal has increased the capacity for passenger traffic by 50 percent versus the previous airport terminal. The V.C Bird International Airport terminal represents the vanguard of the nation’s security and hospitality. It is where, for the most part, the country has the opportunity to create a lasting, memorable impression to our nationals and visitors travelling in and out through this magnificent structure. The Antigua & Barbuda Airport Authority Board of Directors welcome our many nationals and visitors to our home, and as stakeholders all, we must be mindful of our tremendous responsibilities as Ambassadors for our country. To surpass the expectations of our nationals and visitors alike, it is here that particular emphasis is placed on our Security Personnel, Immigration and Customs Agents to play their important roles ensuring that the first and the last impression is exemplary. V.C Bird International is not just a port of entry and exit, but the driving force behind all our commercial and economic activities. With our dependency on tourism, it is critical that we get it right in our interaction with our guests. BusinessFocus

Mar /May

The three-year odyssey to build the terminal was challenging but exciting. The project has undergone a number of design changes, main among them being the merge of the electrical distribution centre and the air conditioning centre to form the energy centre; the addition of a fixed connector and the construction of a sky bridge. With 23,000 sq. metres of operating space, the terminal boasts 46 Common Use Terminal Use Equipment counters, 15 self-check kiosks, four loading bridges, state-of-the-art hold baggage screening equipment and conveyor system, as well as a plethora of retail spaces. Please note that two Fast Track / Express services are currently offered at the Airport Authority 1) Fast track - Passengers who book this service will be met at the arrivals area and escorted through the Immigration and Customs process, with little or no waiting in line. Then unto the transfer desks or taxi dispatch area. The cost for this expedited service is $USD40.00 per passenger. There are also specials available for families of four and honeymooners. 2) VIP - In the case of VIP passengers, they would be processed through the VIP Lounge here at the airport, inclusive of light refreshments at a cost of $USD60.00 per passenger, while their passports/travel documents and baggage are being processed, after which, they will be escorted to their awaiting taxi or transfer. In order to book either of these services, the passengers travel date and flight information are required. Please note that this service is available all-year round. The herculean task of completing the building within a three-year timeframe would not have been possible without the marvel of the China Civil Engineering Company (CCECC), the guidance of the ABAA’s technical team and the support of ABAA’s management team and staff. The ABAA’s technical visit to China and the reciprocating CCECC’s engineers design team visit to Antigua propelled this fastpaced construction. •

Antigua and Barbuda Airport Authority

BusinessFocus

Mar/May

The Citizenship by Investment Programme: Re-building Antigua & Barbuda’s Economy

The Citizenship by Investment Programme: R e - buil d in g Anti g u a & B a rbu d a ’ s Econom y Like many countries around the world, Antigua and Barbuda’s economy suffered a major setback after the 2008 global economic crisis. Citizens in the country’s source markets — Europe, the United Kingdom and the United States — were obviously experiencing a reduction in their disposable incomes and, therefore, began travelling less frequently. Additionally, the nation experienced the fallout from a double whammy in the finance sector, due to the demise of the Stanford Financial Group and Colonial Life Insurance Company Ltd. (CLICO) and British American Insurance Company Ltd. (BAICO). With tourism being the main driver of the economy, the government in considering various options to jump-start the economy, saw the Citizenship by Investment Programme (CIP) as the most effective way to re-attract foreign direct investment (FDI), renew interest in the real estate market and spur investment in the general economy. We at Business Focus had a chance to speak with Thomas Anthony, Deputy Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the Citizenship by Investment Unit (CIU). He took the time to give more details about the programme and how it has been benefitting the nation’s economy. BF: What are citizenship by investment and residency programmes? TA: Antigua and Barbuda is one of five countries in the region offering citizenship by investment and one of several dozens globally, so the programme is by no means unique to us. Developed countries, such as the USA, Canada, Australia, UK and other European countries, also offer economic citizenship programmes that are geared at attracting foreign direct investment (FDI) and intellectual and entrepreneurship talent.

TA: Citizenship and residency investment programmes allow families [to have] greater security, mobility, access to education, quality of life, stability and protection of wealth. Mobility: It is my belief that people should not be limited simply because of the accident of their place of birth. As a member of the global community, the politics of one’s country should not determine the ability to explore the planet. Unfortunately, individuals have restrictions placed on their freedom of movement, simply because of the country or region from which they come. Security: It is well-known that individuals can become targets for kidnapping because of their wealth, country of origin or celebrity status. A second citizenship gives this demographic the opportunity to feel secure, particularly, when travelling in certain parts of the world. Education: Unfortunately, there are some parts of the world where tertiary education is not a priority, or does not meet international standards. These programmes give parents the option of choosing the standard of education or the place their children are educated. Quality of Life: The level of access to healthcare, a healthy environment and social services across the globe differ greatly from country-to-country. Individuals should be able to choose which part of the world they can legitimately reside.

Admittedly, the investment threshold, in some instances, is somewhat higher and they require some residency period, after which citizenship can be applied for. But, essentially, the fundamentals of the programmes are quite similar in approach. The main theme being, in exchange for investment the investor and his/her family may apply for citizenship.

Families in areas prone to political instability and internal conflicts would wish to have the ability to evacuate their loved ones at a moment’s notice.

BF: What are some of the reasons people may desire a secondcitizenship?

In this global economic environment, families with considerable fortunes, as part of their tax planning, utilise residency and

BusinessFocus

Mar /May

Stability:

Protection of Wealth:

citizenship opportunities to limit their tax burden. BF: When was the Antigua and Barbuda programme established? TA: The Antigua and Barbuda Citizenship by Investment (CIP) Act was passed in April of 2013. The Citizenship by Investment Unit (CIU), a creature of the legislation, was staffed on August 26, 2013 and opened for business on October 10, 2013. The first application was received in November of that year with the first citizenship granted in February of 2014. The Act, most recently amended in April of 2016, allows anyone 18 years and older and/or his family, who commits to making an investment under one of three options, to apply for citizenship. BF: What are the options offered under the CIP? TA: There are three options: 1. Contribution to the National Development Fund (NDF) US$200,000 – US$250,000 2. Purchase of real estate in an approved project, or a contribution of US$400,000 (minimum) 3. Investment in an approved business: US$1.5 million (single investor) US$5 million (two or more investors, each at least US$400,000) BF: Does the programme accept applications from any country, or are there exceptions? TA: There is a “Restricted Country List” comprising of Afghanistan, Iran, Iraq, North Korea, Somalia and Yemen. Nationals of these countries may only apply if they reside outside of the country, their source of income is generated outside of the country and they are lawful permanent residents of Canada, the United States of America or the United Kingdom. In the case of Iranians, they are accepted if they have a long-term visa to a country with which Antigua and Barbuda has visa free access.

TA: All applicants must apply through a locally licensed agent and are subject to processing and due diligence/ background check fees -depending on the ages of the members of the family. The due diligence process is an extremely involved and stringent procedure. The CIU employs a multi-tiered process that involves, but is not limited to, searches in global sanctions and embargo lists, alerts and watch lists issued by financial regulators, law enforcement and other governmental agencies from around the world. These lists contain the profiles of high risk and “potentially” high risk individuals and entities, Politically Exposed Persons (PEPs) and their relatives and close associates, high-profile criminals and blacklisted entities. Also included are individuals and entities appearing on lists, such as the World Bank Ineligible Firms List, Office of the Comptroller of the Currency, Defense Trade Controls Debarred Parties, Her Majesty’s (HM) Treasury, U.S. State Department Terrorist Exclusion List, International Police Most Wanted Terror Lists, the U.S. Bureau of Industry and Security, the United Nations Named Terrorists and the Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC). Firstly, the staff of the unit utilises online resources, such as World Check, OFAC and other such lists to determine whether an applicant should be considered for citizenship. Secondly, we engage the services of international due diligence providers to conduct extensive research on all members of the family in every place they would have lived for more than six months during the past 10 years. Thirdly, we collaborate with regional law enforcement agencies, such as the Joint Regional Communications Centre (JRCC), which is part of CARICOM Implementing Agency for Crime and Security (IMPACS). As

BF: How are applicants vetted?

BusinessFocus

Mar/May

The Citizenship by Investment Programme cont'd

part of their process, the JRCC interacts with the International Criminal Police Organisation (INTERPOL), international law enforcement agencies and border security regimes.

BF: The Antigua and Barbuda CIP has been ranked number one in the region and third globally. What has made this programme so successful?

Finally, we engage with international partners, who leverage their intelligence machinery to provide an additional layer of security. In this regard, the focus would be on such things as direct or indirect involvement with terrorism, international investigations, or cross border money laundering activities.

TA: I believe the first major reason for the rapid success of the programme is that the government made a very good decision to staff the unit with private sector individuals whose focus is on efficiency, productivity and a fast turnaround time. This meant that we quickly became one of, if not the most efficient unit in the region, surpassing countries that had been in the industry for far longer or just prior to our entry. The unit’s turnaround time of about 60 days is not due to shortcuts, but because of its highly competent staff.

It is only after this entire process is completed that a decision is rendered. Where derogatory information is discovered at any of these stages, the applicant is denied. BF: How many people have been granted citizenship to date? TA: As of December 2016, over 930 applications have been processed, resulting in more than 1,900 citizenships being granted and more than US$200 million flowing into the economy. BF: What are some of the benefits that have been derived from the programme? TA: Over the life of the programme, we have seen the resurgence of the country’s real estate sector and renewed interest in the hotel sector. This economic boost has allowed for the development of environmentally responsible projects, such as solar energy and reverse osmosis. The local populace has also benefited from direct contributions to the Social Security Scheme and the National Housing Project. Additionally, the construction boom expected as a result of the programme will create more employment opportunities to improve the economic livelihood of Antiguans and Barbudans. Looking to the future, we anticipate that the revenue flows from CIP will assist in fostering cottage industries, such as agro-processing; improve our agricultural sector; and support the creation of new industries. This will ensure diversification of the economy, so that we are not primarily dependent on the whim and fancy of individuals to vacation in a tropical island.

Secondly, the fact that Antigua and Barbuda has had a strong presence in the high-end tourism sector for more than four decades and already had certain infrastructure in place with regards to real estate products and hotel plants, the country quickly became an attractive place for those seeking to invest in real estate and business. The third reason is that we had the opportunity to learn from the already established programmes and model our real estate offerings and escrow arrangements accordingly. In order to give investors the confidence that developers will deliver on their promise, the unit exerts some control over the management of the escrow accounts. Lastly, we have increased our marketing efforts and have, in January 2016, established a dedicated Communications and Marketing Department within the unit to develop and execute all our promotional efforts with a more strategic approach to higher visibility and information dissemination. In addition to the completion of a successful branding exercise in the first quarter of 2016, during which the Unit’s brand identity was clearly defined, we successfully executed Invest Caribbean, the first international CIP conference in the region May 23-26, 2016, at the Sandals Grande Resort. A slew of marketing paraphernalia was professionally produced, including the unit’s annual CIP magazine. These marketing materials assist in promoting not just the programme, but the country, when representatives travel to global events as sponsors or presenters. We also have a strong presence in a number of high-quality publications. This visibility, along with the culture of efficiency, a robust due diligence process, transparency and accountability of our programme made Henley & Partners and Arton Capital quickly brand Antigua and Barbuda as the number one programme in the region and third globally. BF: What are your hopes for the future of the programme? TA: The realities of our Small Island Developing States (SIDS), without any natural resources, faced with ever difficult fiscal conditions and an international community that has significantly reduced its aid to these economies, therefore, means that governments must be creative in their approach to maintaining and growing their individual economies. The question for me is not whether we should be offering such a programme, but rather how do we best utilise the revenues to ensure that there is: (a) broad-based economic development, (b) improvement in our infrastructure, (c) diversification of our economy, (d) training of our human resource capital and (e) adequate debt management. The result of which will mean the creation of an economy that is self-sustaining and provides opportunities for more citizens to enjoy economic advancement and security. The debate, therefore, ought not to be about the merits or demerits of such a programme, but rather how do we improve the policies, administration and operation of it, to ensure its sustainability, so that we continue to have the means to improve the lot of Antiguans and Barbudans over the long term. •

BusinessFocus

Mar /May

I nc e nti v e s f or in v e stm e nt, be comin g compe titiv e in a g lob alised e conomy By: J. Henderson Fields

Incentives for Investment, Becoming

Investment incentives have been extensively used worldwide by governments and administrations Competitive in a Globalised Economy to attract Foreign Direct Investment (FDI). The Government of Antigua and Barbuda is no exception, as successive administrations have relied on the granting of incentives to remain competitive in a globalised economy as well as boosting domestic investment. With the expectation that both foreign and local investments, particularly in the Tourism sector, have the potential to transform the socio-economic fortunes of a country, there are many benefits to be derived in the form of technology transfer, skills upgrade, increased employment and economic growth. In an effort to enhance the attractiveness of Antigua and Barbuda as an investment ready location, the Government in 2013, passed Sunset legislation which rolled out the country’s most generous suite of incentives under the Tourism & Business (Special Incentives) Act, 2013 (TBSIA). While this legislation was intended to be functional for a period of two (2) years, in 2016, the government approved an extension to facilitate the completion of a number of large projects which are currently under construction or in the pipeline. Based on the provisions of the TBSIA, both local and foreign investors who are engaged in the construction or extension of a hotel, guest house, villa resort, condominium and upscale residential complex; or the reconstruction or renovation of the above are eligible for the following concessions: • Exemption from the payment of Import Duty, Antigua & Barbuda Sales Tax (ABST) and Revenue Recovery Charge (RRC) on all capital items to be utilized in the project • Exemption from the payment of income tax for up to 25 years with the ability in respect of that period to carry forward losses for up to seven (7) years • Exemption/reduction on the payment of withholding tax for up to 25 years • Exemption/reduction on the payment of stamp duty on land transfers and non-citizen landholding licences. The level of incentives granted to a project is determined by the level of capital to be invested under six (6) categories. The suite of incentives available under the TBSIA also applies to the following sectors: Manufacturing; Agriculture, Fisheries and Agri-business; ICT; Financial Services; Health & Wellness; Creative Industry and Energy. The government’s Investment Promotion Agency, the Antigua & Barbuda Investment Authority (ABIA) is charged with the responsibility of facilitating incentives under the Tourism and Business (Special Incentives) Act. Incentives are also available under the Investment Authority Act, 2006 and the Small Business Development Act, 2007. In addition to the generous incentives available to investors, Antigua and Barbuda is a jurisdiction with an educated and skilled workforce; excellent sea and air links to major markets; robust ICT infrastructure; strong investor protection; and political stability. These combined with its natural beauty, makes Antigua and Barbuda a serious competitor for investment attraction. •

BusinessFocus

Mar/May

Ho d g e s B ay R esort & Spa

New Properties, Airlines Coming to Antigua

N e w Pro perti es, Airlines C oming to Antig ua

The challenges of tourism are as complex as they are diverse. One of the challenges that we have been working assiduously to address is the lack of enough saleable rooms to continue the growth that we have been experiencing. To that end, 2016 saw several new hotels break ground.

ROOM STOCK We have the Coconut Beach Resort by Marriott which will comprise of 40 high-end condominiums and a 70 room five-star hotel. Additionally, there was the LABAHIA Hotel Resort & Condominiums; this is a US$52M project between the Adams Investment Management (Antigua) Ltd., and the Government of Antigua and Barbuda involving 120 single and double bedroom condominiums. In addition, with the Callaloo Cay Project, we have in place a Memorandum of Agreement that effectively allowed work to begin on the adjacent Public National Park for residents. Indeed, work over at the Hodges Bay Resort and Spa continues and is quickly nearing completion. This will see this new USD$50 million property. We continue to aggressively pursue a strategy of attracting new hotel investment to revolutionise the standards and quality of hotels on islands. We are starting the year as the government intends us to continue – by getting projects off the ground that will accelerate economic growth, increase employment and earn new money. The government is keenly aware that there is great anticipation amongst our people for increased and accelerated economic activity. BusinessFocus

Mar /May

AIRLIFT We are determined to improve Antigua and Barbuda’s tourism performance, and from the beginning, we were aware that airlift would require our immediate attention. We have since been effectively leveraging our new state of the art airport facility and promoting the many options available via multiple airlines for visitors to travel same day to our country. We are delighted that our efforts are delivering benefits and we experienced an increase in airlift to our country in 2016. Antigua and Barbuda has maintained excellent airlift from all our major source markets - USA, UK, Europe, Canada and the Caribbean Region. The number of flights from the US increased by over nine percent, particularly because of the entry of JetBlue into the market and American Airlines maintaining a service out of New York for the months of September and October compared to the same period in 2015 when the service was withdrawn. The weekly charter out of Italy - Alitalia/Eden Viaggi operated for a sixmonth period during the 2015/2016 season but will be operating for a 10-month period during the 2016/2017 season. For the year 2016 we have experienced a whopping 22 percent growth out of the Italian market and an overall five percent growth out of the European market. All in all, 2016 was a good year, and so there is much light being shed on 2017 with our people being able to get hundreds of jobs and Antigua and Barbuda welcoming thousands more additional short and long-stay visitors. •

Marriott – Autograph Collection Resort to Open in Antigua & Barbuda

Governor General Sir Rodney Williams (3rd from L), Sir Robin Yearwood (Right), Minister Asot Michael (2nd from L) & Marriott Officials at Ground-breaking ceremony.

M a rriott – Autog raph C olle ction Resort to O p en in Anti gua & B arbu da Marriott International will be expanding its portfolio in the Caribbean with the latest addition from the brand’s Autograph Collection coming to the shores of Antigua. The estimated US$40 million project, which broke ground on November 29, 2016, will be situated just two miles west of the island’s capital, St. John’s -- at the former Coconut Beach Club property that closed indefinitely in 2015. That property is owned by Leisure World Hotels Limited. Marriott’s Director of Development for the Caribbean and Latin America, Bojan Kumer said: “We believe Marriott’s Autograph Collection will be a strong addition to the current tourism landscape in the region and this project will endorse Antigua and Barbuda’s position as the international gateway to the Eastern Caribbean. We are excited to bring the brand to the island and be part of its continued growth as a tourism destination.” Coconut Beach Resort by Marriott will comprise of 40 high-end condominiums and a 70-room five-star hotel with modern water features, eco-friendly amenities and a sustainable facility design throughout the property. Marriott anticipates that the property will fall in-line with Antigua and Barbuda’s reputation

of providing quality services to attract guests in an incredibly competitive market. The hotel will cater to top-end clientele, and appeal to those in the leisure and business market with associated upscale services. Antigua and Barbuda’s Minister of Tourism Asot Michael, who announced the entry of the prestigious Marriott global hospital brand in the country, said: “We are confident that having the Marriott name and respect of brand as part of our portfolio will lead to increased airlift, in particular from the U.S. market as this is a draw for U.S. carriers.” The seven-year goal of the Government of Antigua and Barbuda is to increase the hotel/ resort room capacity of Antigua and Barbuda to 10,000. The Marriott development is a venture of Leisure World Hotels Limited, which is jointly and equally owned by Sand Dollar Limited and Propertyvest, whose investors are some of Antigua’s most notable real estate developers. The project is expected to take 24 months to complete and projected to provide 180 jobs during the construction phase, and 240 jobs once the property opens - representing a significant source of employment for the people of Antigua and Barbuda • Minister of Tourism Asot Michael addressing Government officials and Hotel Investors during the ground breaking ceremony of the Marriott project. BusinessFocus

Mar/May

Karisma Hotels & Resorts to Expand to Antigua, Plans to Open Two Hotels on Island by 2019

Callaloo Cay Antigua - Ground Breaking for Luxury Five-Star Property

Mr. Dawood Shah Snr. Vice President Business Development: Al Caribi Antigua Development Limited, Prime Minister Gaston Browne and Tourism Minister Asot Michael break ground for construction of the Callaloo Cay Hotel Development Project

to E x pa n d to Anti g u a , Pl a ns to O p e n T w o Hot e ls on I sl a n d by 2019 The all-inclusive company Karisma Hotels & Resorts plans to expand to a third Caribbean island. Antigua and Barbuda was chosen by the company to serve as the home of two of its brands by 2019.

Groun d br e a k in g f or lu x ur y f i v e - sta r p ro p e rt y The proposed five-star Callaloo Cay Development project is expected to be a major contributor to the national economy. A ground-breaking ceremony was held at the end of February and work commenced the next day, in wake of permission from the Development Control Authority to build and completion of an Environment Impact Study. The Callaloo Cay Resort Development will include a luxury fivestar hotel with 95-100 rooms and 40 villas with a world-class spa, a trend-setting beach club and several waterside-dining concepts among other amenities.

The revelation was made at the company’s 9th Annual Gourmet Inclusive Vacation Consultant Awards and Sales and Marketing Forum in the Riviera Maya, Mexico in recent weeks.

The investors, Sheik Tariq Faisal Al Qassemi of Dubai and OBMI, RBC, HVS and Rider Levett Bucknall, are said to have set themselves apart in the hotel industry in Dubai through the opulence and high quality that have become synonymous with their properties and the products they offer.

Rafael Feliz, Chief Executive Officer of Karisma, said the company has a plot of land on Valley Church Beach, to the right side of the existing Cocobay Resort in Antigua.

This, according to the Minister of Tourism Asot Michael, can only be good news for Antigua and Barbuda on several fronts, one being the high-end market.

Karisma first expanded to the Caribbean in late 2013 when it had a soft opening for its first Jamaica resort, Azul Sensatori Jamaica. Karisma then expanded to Punta Cana, Dominican Republic in early 2016 in the form of its popular family brand Nickelodeon Hotels & Resorts.

Extensive consultations have been held between the government, residents of Old Road and representatives of the investors on developmental plans for the area, along with the need to protect the environment at every step.

Meanwhile, Karisma also announced Nickelodeon’s first hotel outside of the Caribbean and Mexico, which is expected to open roughly three years from now. In 2015, Feliz and Lubo Krstajic, the company’s executive vice president of sales and marketing, revealed that the plan was to expand Nickelodeon Hotels to Central and South America with destinations such as Brazil; Cartagena, Colombia; and Panama being heavily discussed. •

BusinessFocus

Mar /May

Minister Asot Michael has given the assurance that the Morris Bay property will be constructed under strict regulations that all parties involved will have to adhere to. “Sustainability and protection of our land and environment is also of utmost importance to the Government, and so we are delighted to know that the construction will be done through sound preservation principles, green building design and engagement with the local community,” the minister said. •

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Mar/May

Prime Minister Hon. Gaston Browne, Barbuda Affairs Minister Arthur Nibbs, Tourism Minister Asot Michael, Trade Minister E.P. Chet Greene and Barbuda Council Chairman David Shaw turning the sod in Barbuda at the site for a new airport runway.

Barbuda: Set For Construction Of New Resorts And Airport Runway

B a rbu d a : S e t f or construction o f n e w r e sorts a n d a ir p ort run way While Antigua, the larger sister-isle in the sovereign state of Antigua and Barbuda, boasts 365 beaches—one for each day of the year— Barbuda boasts miles of coral pink sand beaches. Low- Bay beach being one of them, spans over 17 unbroken miles. The island is 62 sq. miles and lies 28 miles north of the sister-island of Antigua. One of Barbuda’s natural assets is the Frigate Bird Sanctuary that is situated in the lagoon. Hundreds of amazing Frigate birds live in the nesting colony, the largest in the Western Hemisphere. The male birds sport an inflated red pouch to attract the female species. The hundreds of long-beaked black birds are an extraordinary, valued asset to our tourism sector.

Architectural Digest listed it as one of the best new design in the region. Recently, it was named one of The World's 100 Greatest Hotels by FlightNetwork. Barbuda Cottages is also one of the best and most affordable cottages on the island with its beautiful beach front bungalows overlooking the water, a must visit. To add to our room stock, several other hotel projects are coming soon to include: The US$250 million Paradise Found Project which will replace the old K- Club—the brainchild of movie actor Robert DeNiro

The lagoon is also known for its abundance of sea food, one crustacean being the famous Barbuda lobster. Barbuda features several historic sites: Highland House, Historical wells and Martello Tower. Martello Tower, one of more famous, was once used as a look-out point to guard the island from pirate ships, it is now famous for weddings and Tourism events. The Highlands is the highest point in Codrington, rising 250 feet. From it one can view the entire eastern side of Codrington Village. The Two-Foot Bay area is where the caves are located. It will see new amenities as the government puts emphasis on developing tourism on the island. Darby Cave, the most amazing, has a tropical rain forest located inside. Indian Cave also boasts Petroglyphs and carvings, etched into its rock face by the Amerindians. And, Dark Cave has fresh-water pools inside containing the rare blind-eyed shrimp. Barbuda is known for its Eco Friendly and low impact boutique hotels. Barbuda Belle is the most recent of them. It is solar powered and was listed in Conde Nast 2016 hot list as one of the best resorts in the world. BusinessFocus

Mar /May

Robert De Niro at right with Prime Minister Gaston Browne, Tourism Minister Asot Michael and others.

and Australian billionaire James Packer. Among the approved plans for the resort project are a main resort with 50 villas and cottages, each with a private pool, and six overwater villas planned, all using LEED eco-friendly technology. Oceanview Barbuda is a project that will focus mainly on Spa/ salon treatments. The Resort will start with approximately 25 cottages. Peace, Love and Happiness broke ground in March. It is a US$250 million investment project which will include 100 boutique rooms, 450 residential homes, town house, villas and estate homes and an 18-hole Golf course. It will also have beach club restaurants. A new airport will also be erected in the near future. The site has already been identified and the ground breaking has already taken place. A new pier is also on the horizon that will have offices for immigration and customs. A green space is now being erected to accommodate both visitors and locals. It is a historical attraction associated with the history of the Codrington family. The area once housed the Codrington Castle. Coming soon will be a Donkey Sanctuary â&#x20AC;&#x201C; This Sanctuary will be an added tourist attraction on the island With all these on the horizon, Barbuda will the island to watch in the near future. â&#x20AC;˘

Every employer, employed and

self-employed person in Antigua & Barbuda must register with the Medical Benefits Scheme!

Medical Benefits Scheme

Qualified individuals receive their MBS Smartcard Medical Benefits Scheme which offers the following benefits: A basket of services at the Mount St. Johnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Medical Centre Access to pharmaceuticals from the Medical Benefits Scheme for 11 diseases Reimbursements for laboratory and diagnostic tests

Your Smart card is required every time you access benefits from the Medical Benefits Scheme! BusinessFocus

Mar/May

Antigua & Barbuda and Windies

Anti g ua & B arbuda an d Wind ie s By: Carole Beckford

A Visionary Partnership The decision by the Government of Antigua and Barbuda and the West Indies Cricket Board (WICB) to jointly undertake a creative multi-million-dollar investment at Coolidge, has cemented Antigua further as the permanent home of West Indies Cricket. Having hosted the Corporate Office of the WICB since 1996, the governmentâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s visionary decision to partner with WICB on the Coolidge project now also establishes Antigua as the development centre for West Indies cricket. The WICB and the Government of Antigua and Barbuda have proudly signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) that created a partnership to own the facility which previously housed the Stanford Cricket Ground. Now re-named the Coolidge Cricket Ground, the agreement also includes the Sticky Wicket Restaurant, the Athletic Club and the allotted parking facility. Revitalising the Cricket Ground and its various facilities after eight years of dormancy is already delivering a range of services to local, regional and international cricketers and fans; including fulfilling a wonderful experience for spectators who watched exciting Super 50 matches live or viewed the action on television and online platforms. The recently concluded WICB organised Tournament was a perfect example of what is to come.

BusinessFocus

Mar /May

Thanks in part to the strong support of the Government of Antigua & Barbuda, the business of West Indies Cricket is now delivering on the promise to expand its portfolio and to have a positive economic impact on its surroundings. So, when the WICB moved its headquarters to Antigua and Barbuda over 20 years ago, there was already talk of having all its operations in one location so it can develop and implement a more comprehensive development plan. Fast forward to 2017 and that dream has now become a reality. The Coolidge project idea was first publicly announced in May 2016 by the Prime Minister of Antigua and Barbuda, Honourable Gaston Browne, and WICB President Dave Cameron who revealed the plans for the partnership while commemorating the 90th anniversary of the WICB where a flagraising event was held to commemorate that milestone. The estimated capital investment now underway is valued at more than US$10 million. That figure includes acquisition of all the existing real estate and sporting facilities, and a basic upgrade of furniture and equipment directly related to cricket. The build-out includes the revival of the centre pitch to the highest international standard to host regional and international competitions; the lease of the restaurant to a future successful bidder; the added attraction of a museum/hall of fame; and the offices for moving the WICB headquarters. Michael Muirhead, the former Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the WICB, has been appointed to manage the operations of the new facility. He has been charged with developing a business plan to establish the venue as a world-class cricket ground, as well as a facility which will generate related entertainment and developmental activities, while also driving economic returns for the WICB and the government and people of Antigua and Barbuda. â&#x20AC;˘

BusinessFocus

Mar/May

FEATURE

Antigua Carnival Celebrating 60 years of revelry Celebrating 60 years of revelry; Carnival in Antigua

If you really want to get a taste of the culture of this beautiful island that is Antigua and Barbuda – blessed with 365 of the world’s most marvellous beaches – the best time to come is for Carnival. Between world-class beaches, threadbare bikinis, non-stop dancing, droolsome cuisine, delicious drinks and a non-stop laughter track, Antigua's Carnival is one of the best (if not the best) in the world. Oh yes, it is our biggest festival of the year and this year we celebrate our 60th anniversary so there is no question we are going over the top for this 11-day celebration of colourful costumes, Caribbean Melting Pot, beauty pageants, talent shows, and we must note: especially good music. The festivities, which celebrate emancipation, are always exciting and extensive, ranging from the Party Monarch and Calypso Monarch competitions of Calypsonians, the Panorama steel band competition, and the spectacular Parade of Bands, J’ouvert and T-Shirt Mas, to the Miss Antigua Pageant and the Caribbean Queen's Competition. In addition to these major events, the nonstop revelry of this 11day carnival includes innumerable smaller festivities, including local concerts, food fairs, parades, and cultural shows. There are several different musical forms featured during Carnival. Calypso, the oldest, has its roots in slavery; a common explanation of BusinessFocus

Mar /May

its origins is that it began as a way for slaves, who were forbidden to speak in the fields, to communicate with each other. It is a polyglot, improvisational form that depends largely upon the skill of a soloist, (the calypsonian) who weaves the sounds of many cultures into a lyrical whole. Calypso competitions have long been a highlight of Carnival. Steel drum music was created when the bamboo percussion instruments traditionally used to back up calypso were replaced by hammered steel pans cut from oil drums. The indigenous development of the steel band in Antigua and Barbuda was an outgrowth of the iron bands which were prominent at Christmas time. Steel drum music has been an important part of Carnival since that time, and Antigua is home to many of the Caribbean's finest steel bands. Soca is a musical form that grafts the slower beat of American soul music to the upbeat tempos of calypso. Soca began in the 1970s, and by the middle of the 1980s it had become an integral feature of Carnival. Another musical form popular on Antigua is reggae. Although it originated in Jamaica, reggae has been incorporated into the Antiguan music scene for years. Our Carnival offers a taste of all that’s Caribbean but it stands above the rest because of our own culture and the bewildering life experience of what it's like to walk straight into the 3am hubbub of this hypercolourful, wonderfully chaotic and overwhelmingly inviting event this year as we mark 60 years of revelry from July 28 to August 8. •

Join Us for the Golden Edition of Antigua Sailing Week

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Leopard's winter home is Antigua, so we would love to take on similar teams at Antigua Sailing Week

Antigua Sailing Week (ASW) is celebrating its 50th edition. ASW, which provides a destination-marketing platform for the island, has cemented itself as a global event drawing sailing enthusiasts to the island from more than 20 nations annually. Everybody wants to come to the party and it is not too late to take up the invitation. Over 130 yachts have already entered and many more are expected to enjoy the memorable occasion. Whilst yachts from Antigua and the Caribbean will be racing in numbers, the majority of sailors will come from Europe, especially Great Britain and Germany, as well as from North and South America, Scandinavia and as far away as Australia. Antigua Sailing Week produces a fine cocktail of top Caribbean sailors blended with yachtsmen and women from all over the world. The CSA classes boast several previous class winners from overseas - Mike Slade's world record breaking 100-foot Maxi Leopard 3, Sir Peter Harrison's 115-foot ketch Sojana is back, as is Richard Matthews’ Oystercatcher XXXI. Other previous class winners from overseas include Adrian Lee's Cookson 50 Lee Overlay.com, Ross Applebey's Scarlet Oyster, Chris Jackson's Arthur and Andy Middleton's Quokka8.

big party, nor will fellow overall winner, Jonty Layfield racing Sleeper 10. Bernie Evan-Wong's Taz, Geoffrey Pidduck's Biwi Magic and Carlo Falcone's Caccia alla Volpe have all won their classes in recent years. Yachts visiting from other Caribbean islands will be looking to get a memorable win, including Peter Lewis' Whistler from Barbados, Reginald and Nicole Williams' Legacy and Mark Chapman's Dingo from Trinidad. Ian Hope Ross' Kick ‘em Jenny 2 and Robbie Ferron's Micron 99 Ossenfeffer from St. Maarten will also be there. Additionally, ASW organisers are embracing new strategic approaches to ensure that the event remains a relevant and formidable brand with staying power. The island’s longest-running sailing regatta generated approximately EC$8.1 million in direct revenue over the course of the week in 2016. That number does not include indirect revenue of the trickle-down effect outside of the week. As ASW marks its golden edition, one thing that remains unchanged is that as a recognisable brand it continues to add value to Antigua and Barbuda’s tourism product. •

"Leopard's winter home is Antigua, so we would love to take on similar teams at Antigua Sailing Week," Leopard's Boat Captain Chris Sherlock commented. "There are likely to be several Maxis here, so it would be just a case of getting us all to race. It would be a fantastic showdown to celebrate the regatta's 50th edition.” For decades, Caribbean sailors have come to Antigua Sailing Week for the last big battle of the season. The 50th edition of Antigua Sailing Week will be a special one and as usual will feature trophies for Best Antiguan and Caribbean yachts. Antiguan entries have had great success in recent years. Last year’s Lord Nelson Trophy winner, Sir Hugh Bailey will not be missing the BusinessFocus

Mar/May

Antigua Naval Dockyard Receives World Heritage Designation

Anti g ua Naval Doc kyar d Rece ives World Heritage Desi gnation The Naval Dockyard at English Harbour is unquestionably the most photographed landmark in Antigua and Barbuda. Wonderful! Spectacular! Breath-taking! Magnificent! These are some of the adjectives used to describe the view of the dockyard from Shirley Heights Lookout, or from an aerial fly-over of the site. While not documented in our history books, I am certain that similar views were expressed by Admiral Lord Nelson, when he first visited the site in the 18th century. At that time, European countries were battling for supremacy and control of the islands in the Caribbean archipelago, due to the lucrative sugar industry, and the shipping lanes to Europe.

highlands that border the south and east of Antigua, and which provided safe anchorage for the fleet, during the hurricane season. This confluence of natural features made English Harbour the ideal location from which to launch the British fleet, to protect the colonies of Britain. The hills surrounding English Harbour were fortified with gun platforms, barracks, lookout stations, powder magazines, cisterns, hospitals and other essential military infrastructure. A Naval facility was built within the Nelson’s Dockyard and included features such as an Officer’s Quarters, The Galley, a Sick House and the Copper and Lumber Store. The area played an important role in world history.

Due to its strategic location, Antigua was chosen as the home base for the British fleet, which was critically important to maintaining control of the various islands, and to protect them from attacks from the French and Spanish navies. After viewing several sites, the British settled on English Harbour as the best place to house the fleet, due to its natural attributes. What were these attributes? They include a natural deep water and land-locked harbour; surrounding hills that were ideal for spotting ships (friendly or otherwise), and which hills were also well suited for the erection of artillery batteries, to defend the English fleet from marauders.

While credit must be given to the British for conceptualizing the dockyard and related facilities, one should not ignore the important contributions of the African slaves who contributed to the planning and construction of the buildings and fortifications. After more than 300 years, many of these buildings are still standing and in active use today. They have withstood the test of time, survived numerous earthquakes and hurricanes, and are a credit to the craftsmen who erected these structures. These skills were subsequently handed down from one generation to another, and this is reflected in the many stones masons, carpenters and other skilled artisans who work in the area today.

Nelson’s Dockyard covers an area of approximately 10 square miles, and within its confines are natural landlocked harbours and BusinessFocus

Mar /May

Once sugar was no longer the “king”, and the European powers had settled on who would

control which islands, the era of military adventure in the Caribbean came to an end. Upon their departure, the British left a rich legacy of its military presence, which has and will continue to influence the culture of our island state. Though certain aspects of that period in our history may be reprehensible, there can be no denying that it is our history, and we must embrace it, and resolve to learn from the mistakes, while building on the positive aspects of our experience. Today, we have an array of historical buildings dating back to the 18th century; military complexes and cemeteries; hillside fortifications; large intact archaeological sites. To the credit of the people of Antigua and Barbuda, Nelson’s Dockyard remains the only functioning Georgian Naval Dockyard in the world. This is something of which all Antiguans should be proud. Antigua inherited a rich cultural heritage from the British, and it is incumbent on the present generation to develop, preserve and protect this heritage for future generations. In 1950, the not-for-profit organization - Friends of English Harbour, was formed with a mandate to restore the naval dockyard. This organization was comprised primarily of expatriates living in Antigua. The then Governor - Sir Kenneth Blackburne, gave the organization his blessings, and so they commenced restoration work on the Naval Dockyard. A number of the buildings were restored to their original grandeur, but alas, this came to an end after it proved difficult to raise

the requisite funds required to restore all of the buildings. In the early to mid-1980’s, the Government of the day appreciated the importance of the area; understood that if the lands were given special protection they could be preserved for future generations, while at the same time it could realize its dream of creating a world class tourism destination. While the British used the area to protect its colonies in the West Indies, and the sugar trade, the local government recognized that the preservation of the Naval Dockyard represented a unique selling feature that could be used to develop the tourism sector and stimulate economic growth. And so it was that in 1985, the Government of Antigua and Barbuda established the Nelson’s Dockyard National Park, and the necessary legislation and regulations were passed into law. Credit must be given to the visionaries of the day, who adopted and implemented a protective mechanism in the legislative and management framework, to ensure that the potential of the park was fully developed without comprising its integrity. The National Parks Act enabled the National Parks Authority to preserve and manage the Park in a manner consistent with the National Parks Development and Management Plan, which set out clear guidelines on how the resources of the Park are to be managed. Considerable progress has been made in realizing the objectives of the Park, thanks to strong support from the Government, and sound leadership provided by successive National Parks Boards of Directors. In addition, the Authority has benefited from financial and other resources provided by the British Government, the Government of Canada through its development arm CIDA, and the European Union. Invaluable support has been provided by local residents and businesses in the Falmouth, Cobbs Cross and English Harbour communities, and their efforts are to be commended. Today the Nelson’s Dockyard has become a major economic engine for growth. It has become Antigua’s major tourist site and is the centre for yachting in the Caribbean. The Nelson’s Dockyard National Park is home to

over 120 businesses to include hotels, restaurants, shops and many yachting related businesses. English Harbour has been branded as the mecca for sailing in the Caribbean. What is so exciting about the development prospects is that the model adopted by the National Parks continues to fuel economic growth while sustaining and preserving the natural and cultural aspects of the park’s resources.

military structures (on the surrounding hills) are still recognizable

Today, the Park has been granted International Status as a World Heritage Site. To attain this designation was no easy task, but due to the commitment, resilience and hard work of a dedicated team of Antiguans the vision was realized on the 17th July 2016.

T he, archaeological sites and vestiges of the military complexes that surround the Dockyard exhibit an uneven state of conservation and many of them show significant levels of decay and deterioration. Due to the high number and spatial distribution of these former military ensembles and the amount of economic resources needed for their proper conservation, the current impact of their deterioration processes is not appropriately controlled.

After several years of hard work, the local team of volunteers succeeded in having the United Nation Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) bestow upon Antigua and Barbuda an international status and inscribed the Antigua Naval Dockyard and Archaeological Sites as a World Heritage Site. As we reflect on the journey towards the attainment of this prestigious designation, we pause to recognize the contributions of the early pioneers who made this award possible. The Society of the Friends of English Harbour, Mr. Desmond Nicholson and Family and Mr. Ted Stevens and Family. Then we have the National Parks Authority’s visionaries: our late Prime Minister and National Hero, Sir V.C. Bird Snr., the late Hon. Ernest Williams, Sir Lester Bryant Bird, Sir Clare Roberts, Sir James Carlisle, Mr. Stephen Tinnermon, Mr. Brian Gonzales, Mr. Dave Russel, the late John Meade, the successive Boards, Management and staff of the National Parks Authority and all others who started the journey some 30 years ago. To those who have lived to see the realization of this vision, you have given future generations a sound foundation to build on and a legacy to hold on to, and to be proud of. The Antigua Naval Dockyard and related Archaeological sites has been regarded as having Outstanding Universal Value; you saw and embraced the vision long before it became a reality. As the International Commission for Monument and Sites puts it, and I quote: “Antigua Naval Dockyard and Related Archaeological Sites is significant at the global level. It is one of the most substantial dockyards outside of England in the eighteenth century located at Antigua”. For those of us who continue to carry the baton, we are reminded of why we were able to succeed in having a World Heritage site when considering the remarks of the ICOMOS review which reported that:

I COMOS considers that the physical fabric of the buildings at the Dockyard and their significant features are in good condition, showing almost no signs of neglect. They retain all the elements necessary to express the features and processes which convey their significance. Most of the buildings at the Dockyard have either been restored/ repaired (fairly recently) or are scheduled to undergo restoration in the near future.

owever, they still retain their essential H relationships and visual dynamics in relation to the Dockyard. Therefore, ICOMOS considers that, if assisted by interpretation activities, they can still express the fact that they played a significant role in terms of watching over and safeguarding the Dockyard. T he natural setting of the property, including its geomorphological features, promontories, valleys, the system of the bays, the harbour, the deep waters, the series of surrounding hills, altogether make clear the strategic relevance of the property for the British to achieve supremacy in the region. T he views and visual inter-linkages among the different natural points, the defensive structures and the port facilities, contribute to demonstrating how the geomorphological features were used to maximize the advantages of the natural environment. T he architectural design and features of the buildings of the nominated property exhibit clearly the adaptation of British prototypes to a different climatic context and different building materials. “ As we continue on this prestigious journey, we are mindful of the need to be dedicated stewards who are given the responsibility to manage these resources for future generations while at the same time enabling sustainable development. Today, those of us who are given the mandate to finish the journey are encouraged to do so with much pride and dignity. •

The nominated property still retains its visual integrity, as the visual relationships and dynamics between the Dockyard complex (down at sea level) and the former BusinessFocus

Mar/May

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As an alternative therapy, the living-donor kidney transplant service has been initiated at the Mount St John’s Medical Centre.

Medical Tourism a New Niche Opportunity Medical Firsts and Infrastructure Creating Regional Demand

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M e d ic al Tourism a N e w N ic h e O p portunit y M e d ic al Firsts a nd I n f r a structur e C r e ating R e g ion a l D e m a n d

Based on its strategic location and enhanced and continuously improving health facilities and services, Antigua is positioning itself as a leading destination for health care and medical tourism in the Organisation of Eastern Caribbean States (OECS). Starting with the establishment of the Cancer Centre of the Eastern Caribbean several years ago, Antigua and Barbuda recently conducted its first set of kidney transplants, and is already planning for a Cardiology Centre. The Cancer Centre was established under a Partnered Care Model in 2009, to serve residents of Antigua and Barbuda. The Centre, which was operationalized in 2015, is also known as The Medical Pavilion Antigua. The new state-of-the-art, 20,000 square feet medical complex at Michael’s Mount, St John’s, Antigua, has already been serving regional and international clients because of ease of access and affordable costs. Now, the Government is ready to execute plans for two more advancements: The Heart Centre Antigua/Cardiology Unit and The Imaging Centre Antigua. The plan is for the development of full cardiology services (including interventional), and the introduction of PET-CT scanning for the optimum evaluation and surveillance of cancer and cardiac patients (our two greatest killers). The primary groups are individuals with breast cancer, prostate cancer, cancer of the cervix, patients with rectal, lung, gastric and esophageal cancer, as well as brain tumours. The facility will also be able to treat some types of leukemia and lymphoma. The Cancer Centre is equipped with the latest in modern cancer treatment equipment, such as the Elekta Infinity— a treatment machine, the TPS Monaco 5.0 Mosaic – a super computer programme that helps with the planning and assessing of the patient’s information in regards to radiation. There is also a General Electric Bright Speed CT Scanner, which takes images of the entire body to help with the planning and execution of treatment. Meanwhile, the Government plans to push to get the Cardiology Centre up and running this year, and to renovate the Edward Ward in the former Holberton Hospital building for use as a renal facility, as the country and the region BusinessFocus

Mar /May

Photo: Caribbean Times grapples with a high number of cases of kidney complications. Irreversible kidney failure is a major public health challenge faced by both developed and developing economies. Like other noncommunicable diseases, the epidemic of chronic kidney disease has been largely driven by a global increase in the prevalence of diabetes and obesity. Kidney failure, without treatment, generally, ends in death of those affected. As a result, it places a tremendous socioeconomic burden on patients, their families and our wider society. The treatment options for affected patients include haemodialysis, peritoneal dialysis and kidney transplantation. Since haemodialysis was first offered in Antigua and Barbuda in 1997, there has been a progressive increase in the number of patients being treated. From its humble beginnings with only two patients at Holberton Hospital, the haemodialysis unit at Mount St. John’s Medical Centre now offers life-sustaining treatments for 75 patients, who are dialyzed twice or thrice weekly. This treatment must be continued indefinitely to prevent the death of our patients and it is anticipated there will be an additional three to six local patients per year requiring this service. Despite improving technology, dialysis (both haemodialysis and peritoneal dialysis) is a poor substitute for normal kidney function. It is associated with approximately a 17-fold

increased mortality compared to persons of similar age with normal kidney function. Overall, dialysis provides only about 10 to 15 percent of the function of normal kidneys. Patients on dialysis continue to experience the ravages of kidney failure. Moreover, dialysis is an expensive therapy. Overall costs per annum are estimated to be about EC $70,000 per patient. With this in mind, as an alternative therapy, the living-donor kidney transplant service has been initiated at the Mount St John’s Medical Centre. While this was started this year mainly for the benefit of Antiguan and Barbudan citizens, neighbouring islands will also benefit from such a service. Benefits of kidney transplantation compared to maintenance dialysis are significant. The risk of death is about 65 to 70 percent less long-term with transplantation compared to dialysis. It offers improved quality of life and chance to return to full-time employment. It allows for improved quality of life for the patients’ immediate family. Although, initial cost of patient preparation and surgery are substantial, transplantation has been repeatedly shown in variety of settings to be cheaper than long-term dialysis. These initiatives are expected to impact positively on our visitor to Antigua and Barbuda, and the region being aware of these facilities and making them confident of special medical care should the need for it arise. •

Antigua Welcomes Larger, New Cruise Vessels

The Heritage Quay Pier was extended to accommodate the large quantum-class vessel.

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Antigua Welcomes Larger, New Cruise Vessels

One of the largest cruise vessels in the world, the MS Anthem of the Seas made her inaugural stop in Antigua and Barbuda amidst fanfare greetings and celebrations by the government and people. The ship, which is the largest cruise vessel to dock in Antigua and Barbuda, towered over other vessels in Heritage Quay. Governor General Sir Rodney Williams, Prime Minister Gaston Browne; and over 200 government officials, dignitaries, stakeholders and invited guests were present for the on-board inaugural ceremony held in December.

In speaking to the captain of the vessel on the inaugural visit, Tourism Minister Asot Michael said, “We view this visit as a true sign of the confidence that Royal Caribbean Cruise Lines has in Antigua and Barbuda, as a marquee destination capable of offering a first-class experience to your cruise guests. We could not have thought of a more fitting way to commission the extension and improvements of our Heritage Quay pier, but to have history record that the Anthem of the Seas was the first ship to use these facilities on her inaugural voyage to our shores! So, your arrival is an inaugural event – not just in terms of your visit, but for the seminal moment that it marks for our growing cruise industry overall.” The Heritage Quay Pier was extended to accommodate the large quantum-class vessel. The commissioning of the extension of the pier saw a gathering of hundreds of Antiguans and Barbudans for the historic moment.

Royal Caribbean International’s “MS Anthem of the Seas” on its inaugural entry into Antigua and Barbuda

To further mark the occasion, the Government of Antigua and Barbuda implemented a waiver of duty throughout the Heritage Quay and Redcliffe Quay areas for that day without the requirement of proof of travel, which normally indicates that the goods purchased are leaving the country. Since its first visit by 4,220 passengers plus 1,603 crew, the Anthem of the Seas Cruise vessel had two scheduled stops in St. John’s in January, another set for February and another in April • BusinessFocus

Mar/May

SOUTH POINT HOTE L

Int'l Year of Sustainable Tourism for Development

I NTE RNAT IO NAL YEAR OF S US TAI N ABL E TOURIS M FO R DEV EL OP MEN T The United Nations General Assembly at its 70th Session proclaimed 2017 as the International Year of Sustainable Tourism for Development and nominated the World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) to facilitate its implementation. As such, the UNWTO created a roadmap outlining the objectives and lines of action for all stakeholders globally. As we know Tourism is one of the largest and growing socio-economic sectors and can stimulate economic growth, create job opportunities, address poverty and improve livelihoods. Therefore, the International Year aims to: • Raise awareness on the contribution of sustainable tourism to development • Mobilise stakeholders in making the sector a catalyst for positive change • Foster change in policies, business practices and consumer behaviour in tourism The International Year, then, seeks to explore and highlight Tourism’s role in five (5) areas. Hence, each country has been asked to focus on activities that seek to promote and strengthen the role of Tourism in: • Inclusive and sustainable Economic Growth • Social inclusiveness, employment and poverty reduction • Resource efficiency, environmental protection and Climate Change • Cultural values, diversity and heritage • Mutual understanding, peace and security

Authority). The primary function of the Committee would be to advise on and ensure the implementation of the destination sustainability projects which would involve assisting in finalizing the scope of work for sustainability projects, supporting fundraising efforts, leading project implementation and monitoring on-theground impacts of the projects. b We have developed a comprehensive Public Relations Campaign where a Sustainability activity/event for Antigua and Barbuda is highlighted every month in all Marketing campaigns c There is also a Local Sustainable Tourism Development Campaign that we will be rolling out among employees within the Ministry and locals – This will be done in the form of infomercials and documentaries to be aired on all stations as well as Workshops geared towards awarenessraising and creating advocacy Knowledge creation and dissemination: a We will be implementing the Sustainable Tourism Zone of the Greater Caribbean (STZC) indicators for Barbuda and the Sustainable Destination Alliance of the Americas monitoring indicators for Antigua and Barbuda – Both are monitoring mechanisms which will enable us to better monitor the destination’s progress towards sustainability b We will be sharing best practices among stakeholders to assist them on their road to sustainability Policy Making: a We will be looking more closely at the Policies and Strategies that are in existence ensuring that specific programmes related to Sustainable Tourism are an integral part of the action strategies

With this being their focus, the UNWTO has established four (4) Lines of Actions which will determine the activities that countries should be undertaking.

b We will also be encouraging adherence of Tourism operators to sustainability certification schemes

These include:

a T here will be several training sessions related to Sustainable Tourism development and operations as it relates to each Sector operating within or affected by the Industry. •

1 Advocacy and Awareness-raising 2 Knowledge creation and dissemination 3 Policy Making 4 Capacity Building and Education Antigua and Barbuda has therefore come up with several activities to mark the year with the hopes that we will have full support of all stakeholders. ACTIVITIES/PROJECTS TO BE UNDERTAKEN BY ANTIGUA/ BARBUDA: In relation to Advocacy and Awareness-raising: a We will be forming the Destination Stewardship Committee - This committee will act as a multi-sectoral advisory body to Antigua and Barbuda’s National Tourism Authority (The Ministry of Tourism, Economic Development, Energy and the Antigua and Barbuda Tourism

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Capacity Building and Education:

OBMI is a global master planning, architecture and design firm with an experienced team of professionals who are passionate about creating timeless spaces that transform the dreams of our clients into reality. We design luxury resorts and hotels, high-end private residences, and engaging urban areas that reflect the utmost respect for the land, people, and cultures they will impact. Architectural planning and design is in our DNA, but we are more than our day job. We are travelers, sculptors, photographers and mountain climbers, and our work inside the office reflects our adventurous, creative approach to life outside of it. For more than 80 years, clients have embraced OBMI as trusted advisors for our tireless dedication to them and our commitment to exceptional, beautiful design.

Island B-hive

B uil dBuilding in gLivelihoods L i vethrough li h oo d s Tourism through Tourism By: Dulcie Looby-Greene

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small property tourism development has enhanced and strengthened the local tourism product

A close look at the small hotel and guest house accommodations in Antigua and Barbuda clearly shows that local entrepreneurism is very much alive. Dozens of citizens and residents have invested in small properties designed to add to the livelihood of their families and themselves. Improving livelihoods often leads to growing tourism assets and wealth. And there is growing evidence of this in Antigua. The evidence is best seen when an evaluation estimate is made of the market value of real-estate holdings operating within this small business sector of the tourism economy. Numerous bed and breakfasts, inns, villas and apartments now host short and medium term visitors, and have become valuable assets of sufficiently high quality. More importantly, their operators often deliver exceptional service and an authentic experience to their clients. These properties serve various sectors of the visitor market and are ideally located throughout the island. Most are attractive enough to play competitively in global property markets. When property is held, invested and marketed in this way, it often results in premium returns on investment. This is in effect the bottom line. Above and beyond this bottom line, is the potential employment, services and economic activity created from the expenditure of their clients. Opportunities are wide ranging. These include gardeners, accountants, web designers, cleaners, chefs, fishermen, drivers and housekeepers, builders, plumbers etc. Suppliers of goods and services all experience incremental demand from this segment despite the seasonal and fluctuating nature of the hospitality industry. In short, that additional income is spent fuelling the economy of Antigua & Barbuda. Of course, the most obvious benefits to the country are how these properties add not only variety primarily, but also style, glamour, and prestige to Antigua’s expanding tourism product profile. By diversifying its array of accommodations, the country is better able to weather industry downturns while appealing to different market segments and catering to varying budgets and tastes. The individual aggressive marketing efforts also mean more aggregate exposure for the local sector, much more than the Government alone could accomplish. There’s also the national tax benefit to the country though revenue collection as the small properties grow their business In summary “small” property tourism development has enhanced and strengthened the local tourism product considerably, while empowering Antiguans and Barbudans to get a true stake in the nation’s critical tourism industry. •

BusinessFocus

Mar /May

T r a inin g f or E x c e ll e nc e Training for Excellence in Tourism & Hospitality in Tourism & Hospita lit y By: Shirlene Nibbs

Delivering a quality visitor experience is based on the complex interaction of a number of factors which are characterised by interpersonal relationships among the visitor, hospitality sector personnel and the wider resident community. In order for Antigua & Barbuda to remain competitive there is a need to upgrade the levels of service across all aspects of the tourism experience. Based on experience in other destinations, this is best achieved in partnership with businesses in the hospitality sector through investment in continuous human resource development and a well-motivated labour force. The Antigua & Barbuda Hospitality Training Institute (ABHTI) is the main institution to do this continually. M s . s h i r l e n e n i bb s

Tourism Consultant to the Ministry and ABTA

As a tertiary institution, the ABHTI operates locally in an environment with other learning institutions to include the Antigua State College (ASC); the Antigua and Barbuda International Institute of Technology (ABIIT); the Antigua and Barbuda Institute of Continuing Education

(ABICE) and the American University of Antigua (AUA). Moreover, it functions as the gateway of professionalism to the country’s main economic revenue earner, tourism. Hence, it also has linkages with other partners to include regional and international colleges and universities, hotels, restaurants, catering services and other food and beverage service providers The ABHTI has as a part of its mandate to develop the Ideal Caricom Person. Love life, emotionally intelligent, environmentally sensitive, democratically engaged, culturally grounded and historically conscious, Gender and diversity respectful, Entrepreneurially capable. Some of the students who passed through and are now great success stories in the industry include Collie Stevenson Smith - Columbian Emeralds, Jennifer Isaac - American Airlines, Ian Barley – Chef, Olvannah Burnette - Chef Instructor at the Institute, Melvin Myers – Chef, and Cleo Henry. •

Outdoor World Antigua

BusinessFocus

Mar/May

Unique Properties GE MS of Anti g ua & B a rbu da L aunc h e s Guid e for Sm all Hot e ls a nd Pro p e rti es The unique properties were first formed in 2007, however, the Antigua and Barbuda Ministry of Tourism has taken the initiative to re-brand the collection and produce the guide. The guide aims to promote independent properties to consumers, travel agents and tour operators.

Unique properties: GEMS of Antigua & ofBarbuda Guide Launches for to get The stand out elements these “gems” is that visitors will be able to know their Antiguan and Barbuda hosts and feel the genuine warmth Small Hotels and Properties and hospitality of the islands. The guide allows visitors to choose a property best suited to their requirements, where they can enjoy an authentic intimate home, ranging from the classy and sophisticated to the simple and elegant. The properties also have robust sustainable initiatives in place to ensure an environmentally friendly stay.

Unique property owners with Minister of Tourism Asot Michael, Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Tourism Paula Frederick Hunte, and Compliance and Accommodations Officer in the Ministry of Tourism Dulcie Looby-Greene.

The focus on growing tourism and ensuring that tourism benefits all sectors of the economy and society is shining the light on the “authentic Antigua and Barbuda” experience and a new dimension to the destination. The Antigua and Barbuda Tourism Authority launched “Unique Properties: GEMS of Antigua and Barbuda Guide.” The guide showcases smaller hotels and properties, many of which are owner managed -- offering an added value and a more personalised stay. Represented at the exclusive launch event for the UK travel trade and media, in recent weeks, in London were four of the unique property owners Lorilyn Walker of Lamblion Holiday Apartments; Roger Lewis of South Coast Horizons; Shirmique Jeffers-Salmon of Connie’s Comfort Suites and Jacqueline Cort-Thomas of The Villas at Sunset Lane. Gulliver Johnson publisher of the guide was also present.

The C adet C or p Holding s The Cadet Corps Programme: Hands e: Programm While Planning for the Future Hold ing Hands Whil e Planning f or the Futur e By: Darshanie Singh

Dulcie Looby-Greene, the compliance and accommodations officer at the Ministry of Tourism, Economic Development, Investment and Industry, who spearheaded the project said: ''I'm delighted to see the rebranding of the Unique Properties - Gems of Antigua and Barbuda come to fruition. I've been involved with these properties from inception and we have provided them with a platform and the tool to put their properties into the forefront of the trade and media.'' The wide range of properties offer incredible added value with local insight from the owners and authentic experiences available. During the presentation, the property owners shared what distinguished their hotels and highlighted to the trade and media representatives some of the added value elements , which range from cooking classes at Villas at Sunset Lane to exploring mangroves at South Point Horizon, vehicle hire with Lamblion Holiday Apartments and market tours with Connie’s Comfort Suites. •

I am Darshanie Singh, the 2016-2017 Junior Minister of Tourism and a graduate of the Antigua and Barbuda Tourism Cadets Corps Programme. The Tourism Cadets Corps programme which started in 2003, was the brainchild of Ms. Shirlene Nibbs, the then Director of Tourism. This tourism youth awareness programme, which targets students aged 15 and upwards, is dedicated to developing a sense of ownership for our tourism product while teaching the life skills needed to be successful and well-rounded adults. A key objective of this programme is to attract and retain the best minds in the industry. My exposure to this programme was instrumental in changing my perspective, as I joined 79 other youth realize countless opportunities that are in this dynamic industry. We are tomorrow’s leaders and our aim should be to hold the key positions in our hotels and all other tourism related companies. We must capitalise on our creative skills, leadership abilities and become entrepreneurs.

As the leaders of tomorrow, I implore you to experience our many hiking trails and historical sites. It’s through these experiences that we will develop a greater appreciation for our tourism product and inevitably with this passion, will develop innovative and creative ways to build the industry. We should all be fully engaged within the Tourism sector of Antigua and Barbuda for the decision we make today will play a pivotal role in the enhancement and development of this twin island Antigua and Barbuda! An exotic twin island destination where God nation. showered 365 of the best droplets, that emerged into some of the most The continued success of Antigua and Barbuda, lies within our hands to beautiful beaches in the Caribbean. A land filled with pristine white place a vested interest within Tourism, and what it has to offer. We can sand, crystal clear blue waters, an amazing tropical sun and an island and will take this island to a whole new level. Remember the Beach is breeze that brings one word to mind “paradise”. just the beginning. • BusinessFocus

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Tourism Success Stories Eli Full e r ta k e s us to t h e se a

‘Ton y’ J o h nson r e fl ects on h is joy in t h e hot el ind ustry

Tourism Success Stories: Eli Fuller Takes Us To the Sea ‘Tony’ Johnson reflects on his joy in the hotel industry

Veteran hotelier Antony “Tony” Johnson has retired just months shy of his 93rd birthday; after nearly 60 years at the helm of Siboney Beach Club, one of the island’s venerable hotel properties. My earliest memories are of growing up on Dutchmans Bay here in Antigua with my siblings and cousins. We were such lucky kids because for whatever reason, most people didn't know about the beach there, and it was always safe and secluded. Our grandparents had built Lord Nelson Beach Hotel, the first hotel constructed on a beach in Antigua in 1950, and our parents before us had also grown up in the shadows of that resort. Our grandparents would try to keep us out of their hotel by sending us to the offshore islands in the tiny boat we had there. I think from the age of about 10 we were out on that boat by ourselves fishing, exploring, trying to waterski and generally having fun: it’s where my life on the sea started. Grandpa went to an airport auction one year and came back with two windsurf boards. Several of us learned how to windsurf that week. Later that year I travelled for the first time internationally to compete in the Caribbean Dinghy Championships in Martinique representing Antigua and Barbuda in the windsurfing division. For the next 16 years I competed for Antigua around the world. During this time, I studied business administration in college and worked in many varied tourism jobs here in Antigua. I did everything from watersports work to retail in heritage quay; club management at Ribbit Night Club to swimwear manufacturing; retail at Redcliffe Quay to bar & restaurant management in Jolly Harbour and English Harbour, to hotel management with my grandparents. Tourism was in my blood, but I still hadn't found work that I loved. Each job was good experience and a way to save money for the next international regatta that I would travel to. In 1999 after some very hard racing in cold (less than 50 degrees F) northern Germany, I decided that I wanted to end my pro windsurfing career. I returned to Hawaii where I had been training and hatched my plan to start my boat tour business back home. I convinced my family to let me license and use the small family boat for sightseeing and snorkeling tours. I named my company Adventure Antigua, built a website, and decided to offer something different to guests here in Antigua. My "Eco Historical Tour" was the first full day eco tour taking per person fares via powerboat. We could take a maximum of six, but I could only do that safely on calm days. The rest of the time I could only take four guests. I would tell my guests that my tour was based on adventures that my brother and cousins got up to as kids. It was very easy to make them happy. All these years later, I employ 17 people and take a maximum of 86 people out on a busy day on our various tours. Today, I am preparing for the Talisker Whiskey Challenge and I have no goals other than a podium finish. •

But although he is no longer in the business, having sold the property to three local businessmen, the World War II Veteran who is one of Antigua’s most notable characters and a legend of the region’s hospitality industry, said he is available to offer advice on how to run a successful tourism business. For nearly six decades, Johnson made a living off of his pocket size, 12-room beach front hotel and restaurant, which were built with immaculate attention to detail and quality. When he came to Antigua in 1959, there was no beach culture because most people, except for the fishermen, didn’t know how to swim, didn’t go to the beach and many did not have cars to get there. Today, it is very different. From cruise ship passengers to hotel guests to locals, everyone has a reason to be on the beaches, whether it is for picnics, swimming lessons, parties, baptisms, relaxation and so much more. ”I came to Antigua 57 years ago, I love it, I think it is fantastic and I am not leaving. When I sold my property in November, part of my deal was to keep my home in the hotel and I have that. Nobody loves the beach like I do, I enjoy the beaches,” he said, staring out his hotel room window. With his hands clasped on the small table in the room, his spectacles lowered and a serious look on his face, Johnson added, “I enjoyed working at this low stress job. That’s why I kept it small, 12 rooms were just enough. The sad thing for me though is that so few Antiguans own workable hotels. For hotels to work in Antigua they really need to be on the beach but they own hotels on some back spot somewhere, it is a pity.” He said he has no objections to foreign investors setting up resorts, but one day hopes more locals can pool their resources and invest. “It isn’t that I don’t want to see foreign hoteliers because they are doing great for Antigua but I’d like to see more Antiguans generating money for Antigua. Of course it is not cheap to buy a piece of land by the beach and to build on but surely there are some rich Antiguans who can come together and do it, aren’t there?” he posits. When Johnson came to Antigua, only two hotels existed on the beach - Lord Nelson’s Beach Hotel and Anchorage - and he observed that “now our economy totally depends on tourism and it is wonderful how the wealth of Antiguans has increased. It was a poverty-stricken island when I came and I have watched it grow for more than half a century.” Local businessmen Roy bento, Russell Hadeed and Kevin Gomez are the new owners of Siboney Beach Club and they are said to be working on expanding the property. • BusinessFocus

Mar/May

Antigua and Barbuda - The Place to Be

CMY

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CHTA to Host CHIEF & Taste of the Caribbean

C H TA to Host CHI EF & Tast e o f t h e C aribbea n

The June Events Provide Opportunities to Exchange Ideas and Build Industry

Bill Clegg

Two of the Caribbean's premier annual tourism events will be staged concurrently in June 2017 in Miami, Florida during Caribbean-American Heritage Month.

and hospitality industry segments, and features roundtable panels with one-on-one discussions on environmental sustainability, operations, sales and marketing and technology.

The Caribbean Hotel Industry Exchange Forum (CHIEF), usually held in the fall, will now take place during the first week of June alongside the popular Taste of the Caribbean â&#x20AC;&#x201C; an educational experience, cultural showcase and culinary competition.

Taste of the Caribbean, the region's premier culinary competition and cultural showcase, also provides a forum for gathering practical information, developing skills, sampling, purchasing, strengthening supplier relationships and meeting new vendors. One goal of the popular event is to help attendees build food and beverage business and yield bottom line benefits.

CHIEF will be held from June 2 to 4, 2017, while Taste of the Caribbean is slated for June 2 to 6. Both events will be held at the Hyatt Regency Miami. "CHIEF brings together the right information, the right people at the right time - and by producing this event in Miami we expect many more Caribbean stakeholders to benefit from the educational sessions and invaluable peer-topeer exchange," said Bill Clegg, the Chairperson of the Caribbean Hotel and Tourism Association's Membership Committee. Clegg explained that CHIEF, previously held on two occasions in Puerto Rico, would now be more accessible to Caribbean hoteliers and industry partners, who can benefit from wider flight selections and more affordable air options into Miami. CHIEF incorporates a variety of educational tracks led by experts from many travel, tourism BusinessFocus

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The 2017 edition of Taste of the Caribbean will also bring innovative, educational sessions for food and beverage professionals that promise to enhance individual skills, and will feature a major consumer component soon to be unveiled. "There are so many workshops that you can learn from," Maureen Bowers, former Caribbean Pastry Chef of the Year (2010) from Antigua and Barbuda said, while speaking on the value of Taste of the Caribbean. "Social networking is also good for professionals. You can even learn from the competitions as well - the practical, physical work of what other chefs do." Since 1993, the best chefs and culinary teams unite to learn, demonstrate their skills and provide the general public a scintillating exhibition of the most savoury and delectable treats of the Caribbean. â&#x20AC;˘

LILIAT: AT:AAstrategic strateg patravel rtner partner in ic regional in r eg ional trav el Air travel remains a quintessential component to tourism in the Caribbean. One name that has always been synonymous to air travel is - LIAT. Founded in 1956 by Sir Frank DeLisle, LIAT has been a Caribbean staple having celebrated 60 years of flying the Caribbean skies in October 2016. The airline, today, operates a new fleet of ATR aircraft with an average fleet age of two years. LIAT is headquartered in Antigua with operational hubs in Antigua, Barbados and Trinidad. What LIAT Means for the region? LIAT connects 15 destinations from Puerto Rico in the North to Guyana in the South. It connects the Caribbean with over 500 flights per week. In 2016 LIAT operated in excess of 28,000 flights and carried 900,000 passengers. These passengers travelled for different reasons including business and pleasure. The airline’s importance to business is highlighted by its business travellers and the Quikpak Courier and Cargo services. However, LIAT makes a significant contribution to the tourism product of the Caribbean. With the advent of more carriers in the region, LIAT remains a critical provider in the market place for inter–regional tourism,

delivering vital connections for Caribbean citizens to other islands. In addition, LIAT provides travellers from North America and Europe the ability to travel further into the Caribbean region, and beyond the specific longhaul access points of Antigua and Barbados. These travellers are able to travel onwards with LIAT, and access a range of countries including Dominica, St. Vincent and Grenada. With an enviable safety record, LIAT is looking towards 2017 with a cautiously optimistic outlook. While the region continues its economic recovery, LIAT is continuing to present options to the travelling public. The airline completed its Fleet renewal program in 2016, moving from the older De-Haviland Dash 8 aircrafts to the newer ATR aircraft. Acting Chief Executive Officer, Julie Reifer-Jones sees this as important to LIAT’s strategic position. “This new fleet will help us be able to move our passengers in safety and comfort as we present a more reliable product.” Mrs. Reifer-Jones has for 2017 placed On Time Performance, Reliability and Great Customer Service as the company’s priorities. “We want passengers to have the LIAT experience from purchasing their ticket to arriving at their destination where the customer service experience makes the passenger eager to take their next LIAT flight.” she stated. Julie Reifer-Jones sees LIAT as continuing to work to fuel the potential of the Caribbean, by connecting it to the world, and the world to the Caribbean, especially in the tourism driven economies of the Caribbean. •

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Mar/May

Sa n da ls R e sorts - S e ttin g N ew I n dustry S tanda rd s an d A dd in g Value to the D estin ation Br a nd

Sandals Resorts - Setting New Industry Standards and Adding Value to the Destination Brand

Sandals Corporate University – Five Years of Opening Doors to Improved Skills and Growth

When Gordon “Butch” Stewart opened his first hotel in 1981, he and his small group of industry outsiders knew very little about running a hotel, which, in hindsight, was probably a good thing. With little preconceived notions about what a resort should be, they were able to see far down the road to what it could be. In the early days, Sandals sales team’s biggest selling point was that the rooms included a hair dryer, something no one else was doing at the time. That seems laughable now, but Sandals continues to set the industry standard offering luxury inclusions that, on paper, should never have worked in the business. Advertising Army The tourism industry in Antigua & Barbuda remains very seasonal, opening in November/ December when cold weather in source markets sets in, and running until April/May, when many of the resorts and restaurants on island have to shut down for the summer months. The entire island feels the hit and it can be especially hard on tourism workers who only have guaranteed employment for only part of the year. Sandals Grande Antigua, however, remains open all year round thanks to the impressive BusinessFocus

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marketing team which has put the Sandals’ brand front and centre before consumers making it as synonymous with the Caribbean as Bob Marley and Fidel Castro.

With giveaways on game shows such as Wheel of Fortune, Let’s Make a Deal, and TV shows Dr. Oz and Steve Harvey, Sandals keeps its brand in the public consciousness.

The resort chain’s marketing arm, Unique Vacations Inc (UVI), garnered 1.5 billion impressions in 2016 through sweepstake promotions on TV, radio, online and print.

Through these and other advertising efforts, every minute of the day, somewhere in North America a Sandals commercial is running.

On the front lines of the battle for tourists’ dollars, however, are a dedicated ‘army’ of Sandals Business Development Officers (BDOs). They travel through snow and sleet, rain or shine, from big cities to small towns in rural USA to meet with travel agents and train them on how to sell Sandals and Beaches resorts. Fortunately for those BDOs, Sandals is one of those products that sells itself. With 5-star gourmet dining, that allows guests to sample international cuisine at every resort, unlimited scuba diving, some of the most incredible rooms on some of the best beach properties in the Caribbean, and all included with guests never having to pull out a wallet on property, everybody wants to visit a Sandals resort. In November 2016, Sandals officially opened Over-the-water bungalows at its Royal Caribbean resort in Jamaica. While made popular in Fiji and Bora Bora in the Pacific Ocean, over the water suites were nearimpossible to build in the Caribbean for reasons including the tides, environmental regulation, and hurricanes as impediments. But through feats of engineering and the perfect protective cove of the Montego Bay lagoon location, Sandals has been able to add something unique to the Caribbean’s tourism product. Disrupting the all-inclusive game There was a time when “all-inclusive” was a bad word in the luxury travel industry, invoking images of a vacation little more luxurious than a camping trip, with a hotel that had one main restaurant, more akin to a cafeteria, where all guests lined up with plates to have every meal. If you wanted a more intimate a la carte experience there would usually be the add-on restaurant where you could have a decent dinner, for extra of course. Sandals changed the all-inclusive game, which is why it refers to its offerings as luxuryincluded©. At the Grande Antigua property, guests have up to eight sit down restaurants at which to dine throughout their stay plus a few other eateries like its popular Café de Paris for quick bites and a coffee. Sandals continue to push the envelope in what it offers its guests and wherever it enters the market it pushes up the entire industry’s standards. Today, its luxury-included hotels attract an upper middle-class clientele who, 30 years ago, would never have chosen an allinclusive hotel. Catering for the millennial traveler As the demographics of travellers continues to evolve, so too are the offerings of Sandals changing with the times. Presently, one can find a good mix of mature 50-somethings celebrating a 30th wedding anniversary at the property with millennial newlyweds on honeymoon. While catering to these diverse needs presents a challenge, Sandals continues to find ways to meet the needs of as wide a category of its customer base as possible.

Millennial travellers, without the financial wherewithal of their baby boomer parents, are known to save money by finding cheap accommodation with the help of apps like Airbnb and seek out unique experiences and adventures while on vacation. Sandals has remained relevant to this group through its hip Island Routes brand which takes guests off-property to see the various islands where the resorts are located. Adventure tours including from kayaking, snorkeling, ATV rides, and zip lining are available for through Island Routes for guests staying in Antigua. All Sandals resorts have included Wi-Fi which, for the social media-savvy traveller who has to keep everyone at home updated through Twitter and Instagram, has become as much a necessity these days as bathroom facilities. In that vein, the resorts chain has launched a Sandals and Beaches App packed with detailed information about each property in the palm of one’s hands, moving away from having to turn to a resort newsletter to know which restaurants are open tonight. In a second phase of app capabilities, users will be able to upload photos taken directly to integrated social media accounts, book restaurants and spa treatments, make requests of their butlers, and use an interactive property map

to get step by step voice directions from point A to B. Young travellers, just starting their married lives are still very interested in meeting other people, and even though the couplesonly resort chain is primarily designed for two people in love, opportunities for social interaction must be etched in to each resort’s fabric to meet these needs. The romantic and communal fire pits found at Sandals Grande Antigua allow couples to meet up and sip a drink together after dinner while listening to the waves gently crash on the beach or soaking up the silver moonlight. The most important characteristic of millennial travellers from a business perspective might be their loyalty to novel travel experiences over any particular hotel or brand. Many won’t visit the same place twice. With that in mind, Sandals has been aggressively pursuing new properties as well as upgrading older ones, making it very difficult for anyone to say “been there, done that” as there is always something new on the horizon. As of 2018, there is an expected doubling of Sandals Barbados and new properties for Tobago, Mexico, and St Lucia are in the pipeline, keeping completing the Sandals series just out of reach of guests. • BusinessFocus

Mar/May

Antigua Distillery Ltd. Receives FSSC 22000 Certification

he Antigua Distillery Ltd is proud to announce the attainment of its international certification of its Food Safety Standards for its manufacturing operations. For some time now food safety concerns have been increasing worldwide. In order to engage businesses globally who purchase and provide food products on a large scale, Food Safety Certifications are becoming more and more of a requirement. As our exports grew, we realized the need to upgrade our food safety standards in order to position ourselves in various markets especially in Europe and to meet US Regulations. We were HACCP certified in the past and the decision was either to update/renew our existing certification or go for a more comprehensive certification, FSSC 22000. At first, the task was daunting, especially for such a small company such as ours. Very few companies in the Caribbean were FSSC 22000 certified and only two large rum distilleries had accreditation. We are also the first water company in the Caribbean to be awarded with such certification. With the help of an experienced consultant and determination of our technical and management team, we are happy to have achieved this very important milestone. “The FSSC 22000 Food Safety System Certification provides a framework for effectively managing food safety and quality responsibilities. FSSC 22000 demonstrates a company has a robust and effective food safety management system (FSMS) in place to meet the requirements of regulators, food business clients and consumers. The FSSC 22000 Scheme is managed by the independent Foundation FSSC 22000. FSSC 22000 is recognized by the Global Food Safety Initiative (GFSI) and developed in response to the needs of the international food sector. FSSC 22000 is fully based on the international, independent standards: ISO 22000, ISO 22003 with sector specific technical specifications for Prerequisite Programs (PRPs) and additional Scheme requirements” SGS is the world's leading inspection, verification, testing and certification company. They are recognized as the global benchmark for quality and integrity. With more than 90,000 employees, they operate a network of more than 2,000 offices and laboratories around the world. •

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Mar /May

MEET THE TEAM TOP - Calbert Francis, Mario Bento, Allison Cameron, Kristin Myers. BOTTOM - Dian Joseph, Barry Georges and Moya Lambert, Gerry Bento (absent)

Moya Lambert: Technical Manager/Food Safety Team Leader For the food safety initiative, I dealt with the instruction procedures, hazard analysis and the prerequisite procedures which I wrote with the assistance of Dian for the distillery operations. Now that we have the certification, my role is to manage the system and ensure we maintain the requirements of the FSSC standard and push for continuous improvement. As members of the team, we have to meet often to deal with issues as they arise. Of all the food safety certifications, this one ranks amongst the top and it assures our customers that what we make here at the Antigua Distillery Ltd, is produced in a manner that guarantees the food is safe. We decided to go for the top certification, which encompasses a number of other standards.

Alison Cameron: Beverage Plant Manager/Assistant Food Safety Team Leader My role was mainly to deal with the documentation, training and implementation of the food safety programme. The system involves meticulous record keeping to allow for traceability, assuring our customers that the products are manufactured in a food-safe environment. I was also involved in the training of employees to develop a food safety policy compliant to FSSC requirements. Being certified, means that we had to implement and adhere to systems throughout our manufacturing process to ensure the absence of hazards. Any food safety concerns are traceable down to the raw materials used in manufacture. It also means all our ingredients and packaging materials go through rigorous testing before use. Daily testing is also conducted on the final product during manufacture, ensuring the highest quality product is delivered to our customers.

Dian Joseph: Blending and Bottling Manager We actively started working on getting FSSC certification within the last two years. In terms of the small islands, we are the only distillery to have this certification in the region and the third among the entire region. I am involved in everything we have to do in terms of preparing the facility, staff training and updating documentation as it pertains to the rum facility and the Coolidge storage facility, where we store the aged barrels. Getting FSSC certification was a challenge because we had to update many systems and we were all here every day past the regular hours, all for the improvement of the company and to get an even better product out to the customer. It is a marked improvement on what we had before.

BusinessFocus

Mar/May

MONEY MATTERS

The fight for survival amidst de-risking trends

T h e f i g h t f o r s u rv i va l amidst de-risking trends By: Whitfield Harris, Financial Secretary at the Ministry of Finance

The phenomenon of de-risking is an imminent threat to small states in the Caribbean, including Antigua and Barbuda. According to the Financial Action Task Force (FATF) it occurs “…when financial institutions terminate or restrict business relationships with entire countries or classes of customer in order to avoid risks.” A number of reasons have been identified for the de-risking trend and recommendations advanced on how to address it. For the majority of our Caribbean countries, many of the characteristics that enhance our beauty, also increase our burden. Our small size, for example, whilst making us charming and alluring as tourist destinations, also makes us vulnerable to the vagaries of climate change and related adverse weather events. Likewise, the smallness of our economies, whilst making us nimble and adaptable to changing demands in global markets, also makes us easy prey for richer countries and powerful corporations/ institutions, which wish not to engage us fairly. Today, Caribbean countries face a lethal threat – that of de-risking – which has seen the banking systems in our small, open, tradebased economies come face-to-face with the reality of significantly diminished, if not virtual, removal of correspondent banking services. We are particularly vulnerable in light of a number of challenges, which were correctly identified in an October 2016 Huffington Post article addressing the subject. Challenges identified were: “…relatively shallow banking systems, under-developed financial markets, highly concentrated financial systems dominated by foreign banks, domestic currencies that are not internationally traded and often a heavy reliance on remittances.” BusinessFocus

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I add to this list, the challenge of being highly indebted. Notwithstanding these same characteristics and challenges, a number of territories have managed to transform our economies into service-based minijuggernauts with global reach, initially, through tourism, and subsequently, by way of financial services. These sectors have provided the means by which we have mobilised foreign exchange for the payment of imported goods and services and the servicing of our debt. The critical facilitator in all our countries’ transactions with the rest of the world has been correspondent banking. Correspondent banking has been the medium of inclusion and integration into the global financial system. Without it, we would be effectively excluded and cut off. In my view, the following are at the heart of this issue: the unfair labeling of Caribbean jurisdictions as high risk; the consequential rise in the cost of maintaining these relationships; and relatedly, the increasingly onerous sanctions which threaten providers of correspondent banking services, all within the context of an uneven playing field where “might” appears to be synonymous with “right” and in which there is a lack of clarity in terms of what the criteria are by which banking institutions are assessed for de-risking. Let us consider briefly the unfair labeling of Caribbean jurisdictions. By some estimates (Desjardins, 2015) the world’s broad money supply currently exceeds US$80 trillion. In terms of materiality, therefore, Caribbean centres such as Antigua and Barbuda, with less than US$5 billion in combined onshore and offshore deposits, should pose relatively little risk to the global financial system. Added to the proportionately small volume of deposits

in our jurisdiction is the fact that we are, to a large degree FATF and Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) compliant in terms of our risk profile. The Antigua and Barbuda example is replicated across most Caribbean countries whose financial sectors are also small, but generally complaint. “Risk,” therefore, posited as a reason by major financial institutions and governments to support the withdrawal of correspondent banking services from Antigua and Barbuda and other similarly sized Caribbean jurisdictions is somewhat difficult to accept. This is, particularly, so when one considers that jurisdictions in the US, as well as Switzerland and Luxembourg, pose much higher systemic risks to the global financial system, with proportionately fewer sanctions for noncompliance with global sanctions. However, despite escalating costs and increasing allocations of resources, Antigua and Barbuda and other Caribbean countries continue to ensure that we meet global standards and continuously reinforce our legislative and regulatory frameworks accordingly. Antigua and Barbuda will undergo FATF mutual evaluation in June 2017, following which we anticipate a positive assessment. We are also on the pathway towards being fast-tracked in respect of being largely compliant with the Global Forum and are taking steps to comport with its Common Reporting Standards (CRS). To this end, we have already signed the relevant Memorandum of Understanding and have enacted enabling legislation. These initiatives are being spearheaded by the Office of National Drug and Money Laundering

Control Policy (ONDCP), the Commissioner of Inland Revenue, along with counterparts at the Financial Services Regulatory Commission (FSRC). And, as if these initiatives are not demanding enough, Antigua and Barbuda has already signed the Intergovernmental Agreement with the US leading to the enactment of legislation in respect of U.S. Foreign Account Tax Compliance Act (FATCA). On the matter of the cost to institutions for maintaining correspondent banking relationships, the October 2015 Consultative Report, produced by the Committee on Payments and Market Infrastructure (CPMI) of the Bank for international Settlements, offered the following assessment: “…this is a business highly influenced by economies of scale where banks are struggling to make returns when business volumes in certain jurisdictions and/ or with certain customers are not considered to justify the compliance costs involved. The perception is that this line of business has shifted from being a low-risk/low-margin segment to a high-risk/low-margin one.” In other words, the argument being advanced is that business decisions are being made to discontinue correspondent banking relationships on the basis of results of cost benefit analyses. The margins, say the correspondent banks, are too small and the associated risks too high to justify the costs of maintenance, including actual costs of compliance and potential costs ensuing from regulatory fines and from reputational risk. The CPMI in its report gets even more specific in terms of the institutions most likely to be affected by derisking. It further states: “Banks which might risk losing access to correspondent services tend to be smaller institutions that do not generate volumes considered to be sufficient, that are located in jurisdictions perceived to be too risky, that are not part of an international group or that provide payment services to customers about which the necessary information for an adequate risk assessment is not available.” This description, unfortunately, could be deemed consistent with the characteristics of many of our domestic banks, the balance sheets and cash flows of which are not sufficiently hefty or voluminous to present a compelling business case for the maintenance of a correspondent banking relationship. In banking these days, small appears to be no longer beautiful. The model of a small bank engaging in vanilla banking business is anachronistic - a throwback to an era firmly anchored in the past. In this regard, I appeal to shareholders and directors of our small domestic banks and other financial institutions to carefully observe the signs of the times and to take preemptive action to secure the future of a domestic banking presence in our countries.

Consolidation and amalgamation are inevitable and will eventuate as a result of global forces. We need to act whilst we still have the opportunity to influence this process. In the words of former Governor of the Eastern Caribbean Central Bank, the venerable Sir K Dwight Venner, in the Bank’s 2014/15 Annual Report: “We now have a chance to stabilize and restructure the banking system and to follow a deliberate path of financial sector development compatible with the growth and development objectives of our member countries.”

• A lignment of individual transparency criteria among the 137 jurisdictions, which have signed on to the Global Forum standards

So how do we move forward?

The Caribbean Policy Research Institute in its February, 2016 publication, The Correspondent Banking Problem: Impact of De-banking Practices on Caribbean Economies also offers a number of recommendations for Caribbean countries, among them being:

On October 27 and 28, 2016, Prime Minister Gaston Browne hosted the “Global Conference on Correspondent Banking, De-risking and the Labeling of the Caribbean as a Tax Haven.” The conference opened in the wake of supportive comments issued in a joint guidance note by the FATF and the Financial Stability Board (FSB), which indicated their grave concern with respect to the possible outcomes of de-risking, among them being that “…de-risking may drive financial transactions into non-regulated channels, reduce transparency of financial flows and create financial exclusion, thereby, increasing exposure to money laundering and terrorist financing risks.” These expressed views of the FATF and FSB put into sharp focus the need to find and to implement timely and effective solutions that are necessary to, without being too dramatic, maintain our way of life. The guidance note stated the all too elusive obvious, that dialogue and communication are required to clarify and understand banking relationships, including risks associated with specific customers. In this regard, the note states:“…it is important for correspondent institutions to maintain an ongoing and open dialogue with the respondent institution(s), including helping them understand the correspondent’s AML/CFT policy and expectations, and when needed, engaging with them to improve their AML/CFT processes.” The note continues, “It is also important that regulators and supervisors maintain an open dialogue with correspondent institutions to clarify regulatory, supervisory expectations regarding the management of risks associated with foreign correspondent banking relationships.” From a strategic point of view, the conference concluded on a number of initiatives and agreed that there should be:

• H armonisation of legislation and regulation and enhanced regional collaboration • More effective enforcement action • A dequate preparation on advance of evaluation by international agencies • I nitiatives to develop pro-forma model agreements consistent with principles in the FATF guidance note

• S treamlining regulatory frameworks and methods for data collection and storage to enhance exchange of information and facilitate due diligence exercises. • R ecommendation on the use of the Legal Entity Identifier (LEI) in correspondent banking as a means to reinforce “Know Your Customer” procedures and to enhance the tracking of funds. entral Bank monitoring to deepen the • C engagement between the supervisor/ regulator and correspondent banks, so as to gain a better understanding of the expectations of all concerned, thereby providing bases for amelioration rather than total removal of correspondent banking services. • C ollective lobbying by regional financial services providers aimed at international bodies such as the FATF and the Basel Committee on Banking Supervision AML/ CFT Expert Group to “clarify ambiguities” and “articulate clear, specific guidelines governing how far customer due diligence should go.” In the final analysis, our Caribbean countries and our people have a right to be included in the global financial architecture; a right to trade and to travel; to mobilise foreign direct investment and to remit and to receive funds to and from our families; to build resilient economies and to create sustainable livelihoods. As a responsible jurisdiction, Antigua and Barbuda continuously demonstrates its resolve to be compliant with global standards, in spite of the prohibitive costs. We do not expect an easy pass, but expect to be treated fairly and treated with equity. •

• Adaptation of the broad recommendations articulated in the FATF/FSB guidance note, particularly, as they relate to modalities for identifying and managing risk

BusinessFocus

Mar/May

Travel for Free I have had a credit card for years now. I have not paid for a ticket to travel in years, and the persons who know me will tell you once I have a passport I will travel. I live to travel. How do I do it? Anytime I have a payment to make and this is a payment I would have to find cash to make, I use my credit card. Bills for your mobile phone, cable TV, gasoline, groceries, utilities, insurance and property tax are all expenses that we have. I use my credit card to make these purchases. With every US$1, I spend I earn a mile. When my daughter was away at university she had a supplemental card, which was used to pay for boarding, tuition and books. That year she got to visit Europe with the miles. Borrow for Free The other plus side is that I know my payment cycle – all purchases made between the twenty-third of one month and the twentysecond of the next month do not have to be paid until the 10th of the following month. This delay allows me time to spread my payment. I can shop for Christmas in December and not pay until February. What I do though, is pay off my card in full each and every time.

M a kyour i ncredit g yo u rforcyour e d i t Making card work c a r d w o r k f o r yo u By: Cassandra Simon

In America, the benefits of having several credit cards are evident. Whether you shop in-store, or online, you are likely to get a larger discount, or get more favourable terms by using a store-branded credit card. All major department stores have their own credit card – J.C. Penny, Macy’s, Sears to name a few and there is always an additional 5 percent off for using these cards or reward points. In Antigua, this trend is slow in catching on, but even with the limited options available most persons do not take advantage of the rewards. Let’s talk.

It is possible to make a minimum or instalment payment, however, there will be interest. The interest rate is not the only cost; if you miss a payment there will be a penalty.

Get Paid to Shop All banks are now offering credit cards. There is the cashback card – you want immediate savings, it is possible to have 1 percent to 3 percent cash back. You are getting paid to shop. That is like “Heaven come down and Glory shone around. “ There are credit cards that give points – these points can be used to purchase merchandise from online retailers, redeemed for cash back or to make donations to charity. So, to recap without sounding redundant, a credit card can be your best friend. If used cleverly, it is possible to borrow for no cost, get extra protection on your purchases and even earn cashback, rewards and frequent flyer miles. Benefits of a credit card: � Worldwide acceptance

Credit vs Debit Card First off, there is a difference between a credit card and a debit card. A debit card can be used to make online purchases and shop when you travel, but this means immediate withdrawal from your account. The plus side to this is that you do not get into trouble. The downside is you are limited to only the amount of money you have in your account. A credit card, as the name suggests, is a credit facility. It has interest and repayment terms just like any loan. A credit card is often referred to as toxic debt because of the high interest rate. Beware! The banks will quote you interest rates such as 19.99 percent. Do not be fooled, it is 20 percent. The 0.99 is a marketing gimmick because most persons only hear the 19 percent. That additional 1 percent does make a difference. I can almost see the shock on your face – 20 percent, interest not me I don’t want any credit card! But wait, read on. The best way to demonstrate that a credit card can be your friend is to tell you my personal story. Mar /May

Beware of the Hidden Cost

In order to make this work, you must plan your budget, and make your purchases the same way you would if you were using cash.

In Antigua and Barbuda, most persons shy away from having a credit card out of fear that they will not be able to control their spending. It is a legitimate fear, but hear what; there is a case to be made for having at least one credit card.

BusinessFocus

When I go to the supermarket and I use my credit card, plus my loyalty card, double bonus for me. I save all my loyalty points until Christmas to purchase the fruits for the cake, and the ham and turkey for dinner, so no additional burden is placed on my budget.

� Immediate recognition � Protection – if your online purchase does not arrive you can dispute the purchase with your card provider � Security - credit cards are now being issued with PIN. � Fast and convenient access to cash at ATM networks around the world � Emergency replacement abroad � Travel accident insurance – normally $75,000 � Gold Card- Higher level of travel insurance – up to $250,000 � Gold Card – auto rental insurance � Rewards points, including cash back � Travel miles award � Reduced risk of losing your cash •

BusinessFocus

Mar/May

Majestic Realty

Invest Smarter, Not Harder

Invest Smarter, Not Harder By: Kemal Nicholson

Building and managing wealth is a task that at times can seem daunting. What is certain is that failing to plan can only lead to chaos; therefore, it is wise to be prudent and invest diligently. The first step is to begin by speaking to someone, who is both knowledgeable and qualified in the field of investments. Speaking to an investment advisor about your options will give you clearer insight into the investment solution that best suits you. Understanding all the different types of accounts, and various investment strategies, along with their pros and cons, is essential before beginning to invest. It is, however, important to note that relying solely on expert advice is not good enough. Doing good solid research into an investment makes you more confident in your investment. It is also highly useful to stick to familiarity. One of the best ways of entering into the stock markets is to begin by buying stocks that you are familiar with. Companies belonging to the S&P 500 classification have a market capitalization greater than or equal to US$5.3 billion. It is generally less risky to buy the shares of such companies than to risk trading with shares from smaller or more volatile companies. Remember that smart investing means diversifying. Indeed, most mutual and hedge funds are built on the idea of portfolio diversification. Doing so minimalizes risk. Diversification is more rewarding when done across a wide range of asset classes. For instance, strategies such as pairs trading enable traders to earn in practically all market conditions, by yielding profit through correlated differences in the stocks of similar, but paired companies. Diversified assets help to cushion the blow of market dips, in addition to reaping the obvious benefits of market upswings. When it comes to investing, it pays not to risk everything on one endeavour.

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When all is said and done be sure to set goals for your investment. People have varying reasons for investing and varying expectations likewise. Knowing your financial goals makes it easier to choose the right type of investment. Investment should have long-term value. As a rule, avoid “fly by night” or “get rich quick schemes.” One of the benefits of long term investing is a tax decrease. Lengthy investments often see gradual tax cuts in most jurisdictions. •

Kemal Nicholson is an Antiguan investment advisor and freelance writer living in Moscow, Russia. He holds a Bsc. in Political Science from the Peoples Friendship University of Russia. With an interest in Private Banking, he works for GL Asset Management which is a Swiss based investment firm, specializing in market neutral strategies.

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Mar/May

The prime minister said the government is expecting even greater dividend payments for 2016.

StatState e Insurance I n s uCorporation r a n c Pays e $9M Divi-Pointing to the cheque, the prime minister said: “It says here a cheque for $9,065,342.06, payable to the Accounting p otorGovernment at i o n pay s C o rdend General, representing the dividend payments for 2015. “So, it means, therefore, that in a matter of a few months $9M dividend to by April of 2017, we should have cheque of about 11 million g ov ERNMEN T dollars. This dividend payment is after statutory deductions, so the profits would have been even greater.”

The Government of Antigua and Barbuda received $9.6 million dollars from the State Insurance Corporation (SIC), a wholly owned state institution. The cheque represents dividend payments for the year 2015. In a hand-over meeting held at the Office of the Prime Minister, at the end of 2016, Lyndell Francis-Butler-the general manager of the entity--delivered the cheque to Prime Minister Gaston Browne.

The country’s leader commended the staff and management for skillfully running the corporation just as efficiently as those in the private sector. “Let me take this opportunity to commend the board of directors and staff and management at the corporation for yet another successful year,” he said. “It also shows that we have young Antiguans and Barbudans [who] are running corporations that are just as or even more efficient than those operating in private sectors in Antigua and Barbuda and within the region.” •

State Insurance Corporation

BusinessFocus

Mar /May

The Journey Company

Visas. Passports. Courier. Travel. US Mailbox. Brokerage. Logistics.

Robert & Sylvia Warner (Directors)

AT WINGS, ONE STOP DOES IT ALL FAST, RELIABLE & TRUSTED

Wings Inc

Established in 1993, Wings Inc. has proven that a business culture built on ethical values and principles to deliver consistent, reliable and professional services will sustain corporate growth that enhances human development in our delivery of premium services. This platform helps keep our business and team relevant and adaptable to meet client needs in today’s dynamic marketplace. The principals of Wings Inc., Robert & Sylvia Warner, have leveraged their combined experience of over 60 years in the areas of visa and passport consultancy, travel, courier, customs brokerage and shipping to create a one-stop-shop full logistics suite of services meeting a wide variety of customer’s needs through its service divisions. Wings Courier Service, the first in its suite of services, began by offering a weekly courier service in 1993 to the US Embassy in Barbados for persons desirous of obtaining US non-immigrant visas and US Passports to the United States. With the changes over the years in obtaining a US visa, Wings Courier shifted its focus to offering consultation and expanded courier services for applicants desiring the following: • U.S. Visas • U.S. Passports • U.S. Immigrant Visa Petitions (Green cards) • Canadian Visas • Canadian Passports • U.S. and Canadian Birth Ceritificates and Apostilles • Jamaican Passports, Apostilles and Police Records

Wings Travel Adventures is licensed by IATA and services clients traveling for business or pleasure, and has built its suite of services to eliminate the hassle of travel arrangements. Services include: • Flight Reservations • E-tickets • Cruises • Vacations • Hotels • Groups • Tours • Car Rentals. Wings Travel Adventures also coordinates and plans events such as conferences, awards dinners and weddings. Every client’s comfort and time are highly valued and resources are pooled to deliver cost-effective premium services. WinBox US Mailbox facilitates the delivery of your online shopping items to Antigua. Residing outside of the United States is no longer a hindrance. For those desiring the convenience of purchasing items and having these items delivered to Antigua & Barbuda, WinBox US Mailbox is the perfect delivery solution. This service affords customers the convenience of their own free sign-up US Mailbox service that provides a physical address where packages are received in Miami then delivered to Antigua. Winbox greatly facilitates shopping online and collection of items within days. You can also order at the office. Wings Messenger Services handles business clients need for local courier and offers the following cost-effective services:

• European Schengen Visas, British Visas etc.

• Mail sorting and posting

• Courier agents for LIAT QuikPak, DHL and FedEx.

• Scheduled deliveries and pickups

Wings Brokerage and Shipping was established servicing import and export customs clearance, shipping, orders and deliveries. Wings Brokerage and Shipping has a team of expert experienced customs brokers on hand to complete all the necessary documentation facilitating the client customs clearance process. Client’s need to focus on their core business has never been greater and that’s why Wings Brokerage and Shipping provides import and export customs clearance, trucking and delivery services and logistics. This division has served retail establishments, hotels, power plants, construction developments, home owners, barrel and small package importers. Whether you’re importing or exporting a yacht, yacht spares, goods, or equipment in containers and/or LCL cargo shipments, Wings Brokerage is here to serve.

• Adhoc / Unscheduled courier runs • On-call services • Contracted onsite services etc. Over more than two decades of serving Antigua and Barbuda and St. Kitts & Nevis, Wings Inc. has grown from a single-focused courier entity, to a full range of logistics services facilitating visas, passport renewals, local messenger and international courier, air travel, cruises, ocean cargo, brokerage and shipping services. You can experience Wings Inc quality, convenience and reliability by visiting our corporate offices in the CECO Pharmacy Building on High & Temple Streets or call us at 1-268-460-3660/1/3/4 or email info@wingsgo.com

Wings Inc. gives its clientele a global reach through its wide range of services.

must reads Volume 17

By: Lyndell Halliday BSc., MBA, CPA,CMA

Marketing Must Reads 101Marketing 101 “ People don’t want to buy a quarterinch drill. They want a quarterinch hole.” – Theofore Levitt Marketing is one of the most critical activities of any enterprise and yet at once one of the most poorly understood. This issue of Must Reads explores the basics of marketing with a discussion of two key books: All Marketers are Liars by Seth Godin, (Portfolio, 2012) and Brand Real by Laurence Vincent. (Amacon, 2012).

primarily on the facts and features of their product or service instead of telling a story. However, while having a good story is necessary, it is not sufficient. Godin warns that marketing does not work if the customer experience is incongruent with the story that the consumer is being told. Authenticity is critical. In other words, you must live the story that you tell in order for it to be credible and sustainable. Godin outlines a five step approach to understanding successful marketing through storytelling: Step 1: Their worldview and frames got there before you did. Step 2: People only notice the new and then make a guess. Step 3: First impressions start the story. Step 4: Great marketers tell stories we believe. Step 5: Marketers with authenticity thrive. Godin is particularly strong when he gives an exposition of the ideas of framing and worldviews. According to Godin, each consumer has a personalized worldview. Successful marketers understand that it is impossible to reach all worldviews. Instead, the successful marketer focuses on consumers with a specific worldview and attempts to frame the marketing story to cater to that worldview. Godin adds strength to his arguments by citing anecdotes and examples of real life businesses – many of which will be familiar to the reader. The title of this book gives a hint at the writing style to expect from the author – somewhat tongue in cheek and irreverent at times. If you don’t mind that you will find this to be an enlightening book that deftly delivers what its subtitle claims - The Underground Classic That Explains How Marketing Really Works--and Why.

including CBS, Coca-Cola, Four Seasons, MasterCard, Microsoft, Southwest Airlines and Sony PlayStation. Brand Real was recognised by Strategy + Business Magazine as one of the best business books of 2012. Brand Real is a detailed primer on what brand building should be and should not be. Vincent writes that many companies focus far too much effort on brand identity - on issues such as names, colours, logos and taglines – to the neglect of the more critical aspect of branding – the brand behaviour. According to Vincent, “enterprises forgot that a brand, at its heart, is a promise to deliver. If the brand experience does not live up to that promise, customers will take their business elsewhere.” Thus, what matters most is being able to consistently deliver experiences that reinforce your brand identity. There must be an alignment with the expectations and the actual experiences of a brand. Vincent posits that customers divide brands into five major categories: cultures, destinations, products, services and ingredients. Critical to a successful brand strategy is ensuring that your brand is positioned in the right category, consistent with your defined strategy. In Brand Real Vincent gives a comprehensive step by step guide on how to develop and maintain a successful brand using examples of many well-known companies – both successes and failures. Brand Real is an engaging and pragmatic book for any business executive needing to get an understanding on the important subject of branding. •

All Marketers Are Liars by Seth Godin Seth Godin is a prolific author who has written eighteen international . He is perhaps best known as the author of Tribes – We Need You to Lead Us and Purple Cow – Transform Your Business by Being Remarkable. According to Godin, “Successful marketers are just providers of stories that consumers choose to believe”. And that is the essence of this book - marketing is about telling a believable story. It is essential to have a good story – “Either you are going to tell stories that spread, or you become irrelevant.“ One of the down falls of unsuccessful marketers is that they focus BusinessFocus

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Brand Real by Laurence Vincent Laurence Vincent is a successful strategic marketing consultant who has worked with some of the world’s most recognised brands

Lyndell Halliday is an avid reader, lifelong learner and business executive, who has served in a range of leadership roles across the Caribbean. He is currently employed as the General Manager of Automotive Art (St Lucia) Ltd. Mr Halliday also lectures Leadership & Operations Management for the Australia Institute of Business MBA programme at the National Research and Development Foundation.

SSSAB

IN THE KNOW In Antigua and Barbuda, there have been numerous instances where the nation would have benefitted, if persons were “free” to come forward with information, confident in the knowledge that they will not face loss of employment or legal action for breach of confidentiality. A few examples follow:

Protecting Whistleblowers

Protecting Whistleblowers By: Everett Christian Whistle blowing is an action of bravery, stemming from a dedication to ethics; a crucial source of intelligence to help identify wrongdoing and risks to public and private sector service delivery. Some may view it as “snitching” and accuse those who take action of “biting the hand that feeds.” Consequently, this act of bravery often comes with consequences for the whistleblower and his or her family despite its importance to maintain honesty, stability and accountability. In Antigua and Barbuda, within recent times, calls have been made for the passage of legislation, intended to provide protection for persons who are aware of wrongdoing in their organisations, and are desirous of exposing these wrongdoings, in the public interest. Some have opined that there exists adequate legislation, so there is no need for new legislation to protect whistleblowers. Their view is that, at best, all that is required may be an amendment to the Antigua & Barbuda Labour Code, and for persons to stop being fearful. Unfortunately, that commentator overlooked the fact that the Labour Code does not apply to established public servants, so a significant portion of the workforce would not be covered. Another legal luminary suggested that what may be required is strengthening the authority of the Ombudsman, and providing that office with adequate staff to carry out its functions. While these views are well intentioned, clearly, they miss the mark and indicate a lack of appreciation for the risks associated with becoming a whistleblower. So, who exactly is a whistleblower? I borrowed the following definition “A whistleblower is a person who exposes any kind of information or activity that is deemed illegal, unethical, or not correct within an organisation that is either private or public. The information of alleged wrongdoing can be classified in many ways: violation of company policy/rules, law, regulation, or threat to public interest/national security, as well as fraud, and corruption.” BusinessFocus

Mar /May

• There are persons who worked for the Stanford Group of Companies who were aware of or were suspicious that everything was not above board, and that depositors in both Bank of Antigua Ltd. and Stanford International Bank faced significant losses as a result of the decisions made by Stanford and his directors. Even persons outside the organisation suspected that all was not right, and there were many callers on local talk shows who questioned the legitimacy of the operations. On at least two occasions, I stated publicly that the Stanford business model made no sense, and should be investigated. It is not that I was aware that they were operating a Ponzi scheme, but my experience and suspicions resulted in my call for an investigation, to get to the bottom of what was Had such an investigation been in fact transpiring. carried out, it is likely that the shenanigans would have been uncovered, and we could have put a stop to it. In this way, the Government would have saved most if not all of the $80 plus million dollars it had to invest to bail out Bank of Antigua Ltd., while depositors in Stanford International Bank could have potentially saved billions of dollars. And, in the final analysis, Antigua and Barbuda would be viewed as a jurisdiction that ferrets out wrongdoing rather than one that facilitates it. • T he second example is the CLICO/BAICO fiasco. Again, there were persons working for these companies who were likely aware that questionable/high risk transactions and investments were being undertaken, but there was no incentive to speak out. Persons outside the organisation also questioned the investment decisions made by the companies; queried why it was that they were allowed to provide banking products, when they were not licensed to do so; and finally, why the regulators turned a blind eye to what was going on. Many depositors were informed of the risks associated investing in these socalled annuities. These officials and depositors ignored this advice, and instead opined that CLICO/BAICO were providing much needed competition for the commercial banks, and were transforming the competitive landscape. They saw no need to investigate what was transpiring with this group, or to enhance the level of regulation/supervision. It came as no surprise to many observers when the organisations eventually collapsed, and numerous Antiguans and Barbudans lost their life savings. • T he third example is the collapse of ABI Bank and its relationship with related entities and subsidiaries within the ABI Financial Group, to include Antigua Overseas Bank, TCI Bank Ltd., Soca Transfer, ASD Brokerage, and BUH bank in Haiti. At best, the relationship was incestuous; transactions were not conducted at an arms-length level; and ill-advised investments were undertaken in Antigua and abroad. In addition, related entities invested in high-risk derivatives/securities in the USA, and when losses were incurred, the resources of ABI Bank were used to provide the necessary funding to cover these losses, to the detriment of its own liquidity needs and operation. The resulting liquidity squeeze faced by ABI Bank forced the Central Bank to step in, to protect depositors. By the time they did so, a hole of some $300 million had been dug, which the taxpayers of this country had to fill. If we had adequate whistleblower protection laws in place, persons with knowledge of what was transpiring could have disclosed this information, at least two years prior to the intervention by the Central Bank. Had this occurred, the loss of $300 million could have been significantly lower. These are examples of private sector transactions that had, and continue to have, negative financial and reputational implications for Antigua and Barbuda. Then there is a long list of transactions

in the public sector that should have been subject to scrutiny, if we are serious about fighting corruption and malfeasance in public office. There are other instances where people in authority, with access to confidential information, share that information with family and cronies, so that they could benefit financially from that information. And for the record, this is not restricted to the political directorate. It extends to public servants, who, through acts of commission or omission, permit other persons to benefit financially at the expense of the state.

represent international best practice. My appeal is for this matter should be given priority, in order to avoid other situations to develop, where taxpayers must foot a bill of over $400 million, while other depositors and investors lose their life savings. The passage of Whistleblower Protection Legislation in Antigua and Barbuda is long overdue. •

Whistleblower protection legislation must provide safeguards for those who choose to expose wrongdoing, and also to protect individuals and companies against malicious and damaging accusations that cannot be substantiated. In this regard, the comments made by the Attorney General of Trinidad and Tobago in November 2015 (when piloting whistleblower protection legislation in Parliament) are cogent. He said the legislation allows whistleblowers to be protected from “detrimental action” including victimisation, harassment, suspension, adverse reference, and injury loss or damage to employment, family life, career, profession, trade or business. But he added that malicious or fraudulent action on the part of the whistleblower is condemned and criminalised and that the Bill would allow for whistleblowers to be protected via a system of protected or anonymous internal and external disclosures made orally or in writing to either a whistleblower reporting officer in organisations and/or to a special Whistleblowing Reports Unit of a designated authority”. Within the Caribbean, whistleblower protection legislation exists in Jamaica and Trinidad and Tobago, and we could learn from their experience when drafting our own legislation. In addition, Transparency International developed a series of guidelines, which most countries have incorporated into their laws, as they

Everett Christian was a Banker for 41 years and worked in Antigua, Guyana, Barbados and St. Vincent and the Grenadines, where he held management positions. He was the Project Manager of Revenue Administration Reform, within the Ministry of Finance, the Economy and Public Administration in Antigua & Barbuda for five years. He currently serves as a Management and Financial Consultant and Motivational Speaker, providing a range of consultancy services to include the preparation of business plans and organisation restructuring. Share your thoughts with via Everett.S.Christian@gmail.com or telephone (268) 464-8342.

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Strong Leadership: 10 Radical Qualities to Develop Your Leadership Skills

St r o n g L e a d e r s h i p : 1 0 Radical Qualities to Develop Yo u r L e a d e r s h i p S k i l l s By: Sandra Baptist

After taking on a leadership role, you shouldn’t feel satisfied and think that you have “arrived.” Complacency is a problem for many middle managers and supervisors. But being called upon to lead your organisation, a business or company should make you work twice as hard, especially, since your responsibilities have grown and your role has shifted. If you want to succeed and excel as a leader, there are certain qualities you should develop. Here are 10 radical ones to get you started: 1. Focus on your strengths You are much more likely to excel as a leader, if you know what it is you can do, what you can do well and when to accept what you can't. What are you good at? Why try to be a pilot if you're a better engineer? Find out what you're good at and focus on doing it better. Instead of always trying to improve on your weaknesses, which you can delegate, you’d have a better chance at success and gratification if you fine-tune and build on your strengths. 2. Delegate Delegation is one of the core concepts of leadership and John Maxwell, the number one leadership expert on Inc.com, stresses delegation through development. Rather than tell people what to do, show them. This allows your team to use and develop their skills. Explore the specific abilities of your team members and develop a plan to gain full advantage. If you must excel as a leader, learn to delegate. There are still only 24 hours in a day. 3. Learn from your mistakes There is no single leader in the world that is without fault and it is a huge problem when you can’t admit your mistakes. Whether we're talking about CEOs, church or community leaders, presidents or prime ministers, all of them have made mistakes in their lives and it is in the acknowledgement of these mistakes that the opportunity for learning is recognized. 4. Refuse to accept mediocrity BusinessFocus

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To excel as a leader, always aim for excellence! When you compromise on just being okay or just being second-best, especially, when you can insist and actually obtain the best, you show your team that your standards are easy to attain without much effort. Halfhearted effort translates into an apathetic culture within the organisation. 5. Consistency Be consistent in your dealings with your team, your subordinates, and your colleagues. Don’t turn your back against a policy as if nothing happened or renege on your promises. Avoid double standards and be fair. If, for any reason, you feel you must make a 360-turn, be ready with a plausible explanation. Your team will understand that your decisions are made for the good of the company. 6. Practice good soft skills Wikipedia describes soft skills as interpersonal people skills, social skills, communication skills, character traits, and attitudes. As a leader you can only excel if people are willing to follow you. As a leader, you must be able to inspire and motivate your team. Develop your soft skills! If you are seen as a team player, your team will be more willing to discuss ideas with you openly. 7. Learn, learn and then learn some more You should never stop learning. Consider opportunities to expand your leadership role and find ways you can develop further. Learn new techniques in problem solving, consider new ideas or take lessons to improve your technical proficiency. By building your personal competence, you are much more able to cement your value as an excellent and competent leader. 8. Respect Respect is something most people pursue, but don’t always get. Respect is something we have to earn. If you want to earn people's respect, show them respect. It's easy for relationships to fall apart when the foundation isn't built on mutual respect. You can only lead people on for a short while, after which you will have to show that you

truly deserve the respect they give you. Despite appearances, people still admire and applaud values, one of which is respect. Values stand for what you believe in and what you're willing to fight for. Strong values indicate strong leadership. 9. Take responsibility If and when things don’t come out the way you planned, don’t be quick to point fingers and place blame. Analyze the events that contributed to the situation and impose corrective action. By rolling up your sleeves and focusing on what can be done, you come across as a take-charge leader, not a small-time snitch. Acknowledge your weaknesses and mistakes, but move on quickly. “Fail forward Fast!” Never dwell on a mistake or weakness because it will waste your precious time and discourage you from focusing on the big picture.

through better team performance and enhanced leadership. Organisations need leaders, who are endowed with the right skills and training acquired through people development. It's not just important to acquire people, who can take on responsibilities, but they must also coordinate with team members and direct them to execute the proper actions. People development teaches a leader about communication skills, management, and teamwork. Through this, the team will be guided accordingly and will be able to deliver efficient results. Indeed, people development can help you focus on developing your personal skills, as well as your team’s leadership expertise. By working as a group and with the guidance of a good leader, your team will succeed in its tasks and propel the organisation forward, faster. •

10. Appreciate and develop your team Show your team members that you appreciate their hard work. It's part of human nature to want to be acknowledged and made to feel important, so lead your team by being truly sincere when you give compliments. Developing people for leadership responsibility begins with providing opportunities for individuals to acquire self-esteem, good decisionmaking skills and the expertise that create leaders.

Sandra Baptist, B.A. (Hon), FCCA, C. Dir., CEO: PACCS Inc. Founder: Caribbean Leadership Institute: a division of PACCS Inc.

For many years, people development has been considered extremely effective for various organisations. People development trains people to be more efficient team members and at the same time well developed leaders, so they can obtain their goals individually and also as a team. People development ensures that any team will be more effective

Visit www.CaribbeanLeadershipInstitute.com for leadership and team training and development information.

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CARICOM / UN W o m e n CARICOM/UN Women sign MOU on Gender s iEquality g n MOU on Gender and Empowerment Eq u a l i t y a n d Em p o w e r m e n t Even though the world has achieved significant progress towards gender equality and women’s empowerment under the Millennium Development Goals — including equal access to primary education between girls and boys — women and girls continue to suffer discrimination and violence in every part of the world. Girls and women represent half of the world’s population and, therefore, half its potential. So, there is still much work to do and this is why the Caribbean Community Secretariat and the United Nations (UN) Women signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to boost the effort to reverse inequality and discrimination. The MOU on Gender Equality and the Empowerment of Women includes collaboration in the provision of Caribbean-wide data, statistics and analysis on the

implementation of the gender dimensions of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and the Small Island Developing States (SIDS) Accelerated Modalities of Action known as the SAMOA Pathway. The Secretary General of CARICOM, Ambassador Irwin LaRocque said that some of the work will focus on developing model legislation and regional-specific tools to address behaviour change to tackle the root causes of gender-based violence and to ensure strong evidencebased advocacy. He thanked the UN system for its continuing role in assisting member states' development and in advancing the work of the secretariat. At the 39th meeting of the Community Council of Ministers--where the MOU was signed in January — the UN-Women representative, Tonni Ann Brodber drew attention to the financial and health costs of genderbased violence, which she described as one of the most egregious forms of gender inequality, and which she emphasized countries could not afford. “Thirty to 50 percent of all murders are intimate partner violence related... [and] it is not just gender based violence, but the fact that we are not tapping into the potentials of our young boys and young women,” she noted. Brodber commended CARICOM for its leadership on the issue and reiterated the support of UN Women. The UN Women has been working together with multiple organisations in more than 50 countries worldwide to push for gender equality legislation and planning and budgeting, to provide life-saving services for women survivors of violence, and to work with communities to break stereotypes. •

CARICOM Secretariat and UN Women sign MOU: L-R (sitting): UN-Women rep. Ms. Toni Brodber CARICOM Secretary-General, Amb. LaRocque & . Carl Greenidge, Minister of Foreign Affairs, Guyana and Chair of the Community Council. L-R (standing) Neville Bissember and Barbara Vandyke, Office of the Secretary-General (Courtesy Caricom)

BusinessFocus

Mar /May

WICB Rebrands, Now Called — Cricket West Indies

WICB R e b r a n d s , Now Called Cricket West Indies By: Vinode Mamchan

The West Indies Cricket Board (WICB) will now be known as Cricket West Indies (CWI), this is according to the President of the Board, Dave Cameron. Cameron added, “At this point in time we are no longer called the West Indies Cricket Board (WICB) but Cricket West Indies and we have also formed a company to deal with the commercial matters of West Indies cricket and this is called “Windies”. We continue to explore ways to take West Indies cricket forward and this rebranding is necessary as we move along.”

Dave Cameron President of the Board

Cricket West Indies (CWI) now falls in line with Cricket Australia (CA), Cricket New Zealand (CNZ) and Cricket South Africa (CSA) all of whom have rebranded themselves for marketing purposes. Cameron, who has moved WICB’s finances from the red and into a profit in difficult financial times is optimistic for the future finances of the board. He added, “I am a businessman, so I understand what it takes to make it successful. One thing you need to understand is that sport is a business and we at Cricket West Indies is like a government, we need to manage the affairs of the sport not only in terms of improving the performances of our various teams, but also the financial aspect in order to gather what we all want - which is success.”

Johnny Grave Chief Executive Officer

Verlyn Faustin Chief Operating Officer

Jimmy Adams Director of Cricket

Johnny Grave Head Coach

Cameron said that the Board is open to partnerships with corporate entities in moving forward and hence forming the company Windies was essential. He pointed out that, “We want to do things right and do it in a way that would keep us up to date with the changing face of sport management. Every day the world of sports management and administration is changing and you need to keep up with this or face serious problems. We at the Cricket West Indies are ready for the challenge and we will be successful.” A number of new appointments were made at the beginning of 2017, and these are as follows; In 2016, Prime Minister of Antigua and Barbuda, Gaston Browne revealed to a WIPA event that his government, in partnership with the WICB, was negotiating with the Stanford liquidators to acquire the Stanford Cricket Ground, the Sticky Wicket and other amenities in Coolidge for US $6 million. The Government of Antigua and Barbuda and the WICB have since entered into an agreement to co-own and manage the Stanford

Cricket Ground and Sticky Wicket Restaurant. Outgoing CEO, Michael Muirhead, recently met with corporate Antigua and spoke about the “exciting opportunities to be available with the acquisition of the property and how both the island and cricket will benefit as a result.” The Sticky Wicket facility will be redeveloped into a full-service space which will cater to a range of services including cricket matches, camps, entertainment and an exquisite dining experience. “The transition will take place in phases over a three-year period,” noted Muirhead. Regional super 50 cricket matches were played at the Stanford Cricket Ground in February. • BusinessFocus

Mar/May

Do an education background check to avoid regret

D o a n e d u c at i o n b a c k g r o u n d c h e c k t o av o i d r e g r e t By B rian Ramsey – Alternative Security Services Limited Recently there was a news story about an individual who was discovered using a fraudulent educational certificate in an attempt to get a job in the office of the Prime Minister of Trinidad and Tobago. On the same day there was another news story about another individual who was found to have been using a fraudulent educational certificate in an attempt to gain a promotion at their place of employment and that the person had used the same fraudulent educational certificate to gain their initial employment at that organization. These news stories may sound like exceptional events but unfortunately, in today’s business world, they are not. People, when seeking to get a job, will falsify information on their application. Hiring the wrong person can be detrimental to an organization. There is the cost involved in the initial hiring and then if you do find out that the person lied, there is the cost of repeating the entire hiring process. According to a survey conducted by Right Management Consultants, the replacement cost of a bad hire is one to five times the salary of the job in question. Among the extra costs are the direct and indirect cost of recruiting and hiring, the direct and indirect cost of training, and the wasted wages and benefits. If the person that was hired turns out to be dishonest, there is also the potential direct and indirect cost of stolen funds, materials, equipment, disruption of the work environment, loss of customer goodwill and employer reputation. Educational credentials are frequently falsified on resumes and applications because applicants assume that most companies will check on past employment but will not check educational credentials. In addition, job candidates are more likely to lie to small businesses because they assume that those companies are even less likely to perform background checks on their candidates. Among the common methods of falsifying educational qualifications is to claim that they graduated from a particular school when in fact they never attended it or only attended for a short time. Another method is to claim that they earned a particular degree when all they did was to take a few classes in that field. In some cases applicants will show a degree that was really earned by another family member or show a degree that they purchased from a diploma mill, which will award you a degree once you pay the required amount and list some life experience. Another technique is to show a degree from a university that they BusinessFocus

Dec /Feb

actually attended, but the degree they really earned is different from the degree that they show on their resume. In most job interviews or pre-screening interviews, it is normal to ask to see evidence of a person’s educational attainments. It is equally normal for the applicant to state that they have brought copies and to hand over those copies. Over the years, I have formed the habit of asking to see the originals. However, with the plethora of educational institutions that are available today, can you really tell what the original certificate/ diploma/degree is supposed to look like? With scanning technology so readily available and the advances in personal printers and photocopiers, how can you tell that what you are looking at is a genuine certificate? Are you in a position to know what the signatures on those documents are supposed to be, especially if the person claims that they did their course of study several years ago? So how do you go about checking educational credentials? The first step is to look carefully at the resume and see if anything is out of sequence. Most people follow a traditional progression to get their educational qualifications. There would usually be high school, followed by a bachelor’s, then a master’s and, finally, a doctoral degree. If on the resume there is no bachelor’s degree but there is a master’s degree that is a red flag. It does not mean that the person is being dishonest, simply that more investigation is required. It takes some time for a person to earn their degrees, with a bachelor’s usually taking three or four years, a master’s taking two years and a PhD even longer. If the time period shown for the person’s degree(s) is less than that, then that is another warning sign warranting further investigation. The person may be falsifying their credentials or may have bought the degree from a diploma mill. Now diploma mills can be difficult to identify, especially because they often use names that are close to or sound like those of well-known colleges and universities. The next step in verifying educational qualifications is to contact the university. Most college registrars will, upon request, confirm dates of attendance and graduation, as well as degrees awarded and majors. When doing interviews you should always get written permission from the applicant

for you to do a background check including educational qualifications. Once you have the written permission, university registrars can provide a certified academic transcript. Unless you are very familiar with the particular school, you should not stop your investigation simply because someone answers your questions on the phone or responds with a letter. Some diploma mills offer a “verification service” that will send a phony transcript to a prospective employer who calls. Another step is to research the school on the internet. You should check to see if the school is accredited by a recognized agency. Colleges and universities accredited by legitimate agencies generally undergo a rigorous review of the quality of their educational programs. If a school has been accredited by a nationally recognized accrediting agency, it’s probably legitimate. You should be aware, however, that many diploma mills claim to be “accredited,” but the accreditation is from a bogus, but official-sounding, agency they invented. If all of these efforts sound like time-consuming work, it can be, but it is better to invest the time up front and get the right person, than to hire persons with falsified documents and regret it later. You can also hire a firm that specializes in background investigations and have them do the checking for you. •

Brian Ramsey has a B.A. in Accounting & Management, along with an M.B.A. in Finance and over 29 years in the Caribbean security field. He is the Regional Development Director for Amalgamated Security Services Limited which operates in Grenada, Barbados, St Lucia, Guyana and Trinidad and Tobago and is the parent company of Alternative Security Services (St. Lucia) Limited. He can be contacted at bramsey@assl.com.

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T h e N at i o n ’ s Youth in Focus Every Year, the nation recognizes many of its outstanding youth who have demonstrably excelled in different fields of developmental endeavours and social service. These young Theare Nation’s Youth in Focus people commended for their dedication to excellence and are held up as role models to other youth. They are awarded awarded in a ceremony organized by the Ministry of Youth each year. The National Youth Awards (NYA) are conferred on young people between the ages of 10 and 35 years. Meet the 2016 Awardees

Joella Lloyd, Young Sports Woman Fourteen-year-old Joella Lloyd has dominated an extraordinary season with record breaking performances and accomplishments. She opened the season at the Antigua & Barbuda Athletic Association (ABAA) Development Meet Series with undefeated sprints in the 100, 200 and 400m, achieving early-season Personal Bests (PBs) in all three events.

Richard Charles, Cultural and Performing Arts Awards Richard has always enjoyed playing sports including basketball, football, volleyball, tennis, badminton, table tennis and cricket. In the UK, he led his table tennis team to a silver medal in the National Table Tennis Championships. He also won a bronze medal with his cricket team at age 11. He later moved to Antigua where he attended the Princess Margaret School, and was part of their football team which went three consecutive seasons undefeated.

Dr. Nneka Hull James, Young Professional Award Throughout her childhood Nneka always kept animals and had a love for them. She pursued a science track at the Antigua State College until her completion in June 2009. It was there she made the decision to pursue Veterinary Medicine when she realised the confluence between her love for animals and her desire to become a doctor and care for others.

Nolan Hue, Youth Group Award The Nolan Hue Foundation is a youth organisation that believes in changing Antigua and Barbuda by empowering its young people to achieve their full potential. Nolan Hue creates professional and personal development opportunities for youth, which are designed to inspire them to raise the standard of productivity and professionalism in Antigua and Barbuda.

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Mar /May

Akanii Cedric Reginald Simon, Education Award This humble and amicable young man, was 2016’s top performing Caribbean Secondary Education Certificate (CSEC) student, five years after he also topped the Grade Six National Assessment. The Baptist Academy student earned 17 passes with 16 Grade 1’s in the June 2016 CSEC Examinations.

Sirriyah Bailey, Barbuda’s Youth Award Sirriyah is presently a student at the Holy Trinity Primary School. She came first at the Antigua and Barbuda National Championship in the girls under 11 category. She is also the Holy Trinity School under 11 girls champion. Sirriyah represented Antigua and Barbuda at the Caribbean Biannual Championship in Tortola BVI in the summer

Terrikia Benjamin, Education Award During the period 2014 to 2016, Terrikia Benjamin was enrolled at the Advanced Level of the Antigua State College. At the completion of her college education, she graduated top of her class with a GPA of 4.19 and obtained ones in nine CAPE units and twos in 2 units. Presently, she is a first year student at the University of Rochester in New York where she is majoring in Biochemistry and minoring in French.

Emmanuel Chiddick, Education Award Abigail Chiddick was the 2016 top performing student at the Grade Six National Assessment. The then student of Gray’s Crescent Primary School, missed only 22 marks out of a possible 400. Chiddick is now a first form student at Antigua Girl’s High School.

Ayana Dorsette, Cultural and Performing Arts Award Ayana participated in the Circle K International Mr. and Ms. Antigua State College in 2013 where she captured the title of 2nd Runner up. She has performed dramatic pieces at a number of events including the Dr. Francis Memorial Series in 2013 and the Ministry of Education’s Function for Teachers.

Matara Murphy, Tourism Service Award Matara’s journey in this industry began at the age of 19, and from her first day to now she has had the mentality that the sky is the limit. Going above and beyond her regular duties has afforded her the opportunity to excel significantly. After only two years as Training & Development Manager she has been able to assist with the development of 200 trainees.

Ragi Burton,Young Professional Award Ragi Burton is one of the youngest bank managers in the Caribbean. At the age of only 29, he is the Manager of Retail and Commercial Banking at the Caribbean Union Bank. He has acquired over 10 years of experience in the financial services both locally and internationally.

Kendra beazer, tourism

Regis Burton, Minister’s Award

Kendra is a spirited, tenacious and ambitious 24-year-old young man hailing from Codrington Village, Barbuda. Currently, he is a Customer Service Representative at the Antigua Commercial Bank. Beazer is intent on bridging the gap between all Antiguans and Barbudans and becoming the first Barbudan Prime Minister of the twin island state of Antigua and Barbuda.

Regis is currently the Human Resources Systems, Technology & Employee Engagement Officer at the Antigua Public Utilities Authority (APUA). With a desire to improve the level of professionalism in Antigua & Barbuda, Regis Co-Founded the Nolan Hue Foundation which is a youth organisation that believes in changing Antigua and Barbuda by empowering its young people to achieve their full potential. Additionally, Regis is a board member of the Police Service Commission, which is a constitutional board responsible for the Royal Police Force of Antigua & Barbuda.

Spilling Ink, Literary Arts Award The Spilling Ink, founded in 2015 by Olsfred James, Mikhail Simmons and Gloreen Lake, is an organisation inspired by the evercreative art community. The group focuses on empowering the youth in all areas of art, whether through music, literary or visual art forms, to demonstrate their skills in an environment conducive to their personal and professional development.

Donna-Marie McIntosh, Young Media Practitioner Award Donna-Marie McIntosh is a journalist, producer and news anchor. She studied A-level Media Studies at Sir George Monoux College. She also attended The University of the Arts and London Guildhall University where she studied Film and Broadcast Production, Journalism, Features Journalism, and Street Photography. Since March 1 2016, Donna-Marie has been a news anchor for ABS Television on the evening newscast at 7pm weekdays - whilst still producing and co-hosting the second season of TGIF.

Glenson Goodwin, 2016 Young Farmer of the Year Glenson’s love for the farm led him to a career, joining his father on his 50 plus acres of land where they operate a mixed farm, rearing sheep and planting a variety of crops. These crops include: cabbage, carrots, sweet potato, beet, melons, sweet pepper, broccoli and cauliflower. The main crops for the past 4 years were cabbage and sweet corn. BusinessFocus

Mar/May

ENVIRONMENTAL FOCUS

Antigua & Barbuda to sign deal for m u lt i - m i l l i o n d o l l a r l o a n f o r C l i m at e Change Climate change remains one of the most serious challenges Antigua Barbuda To Approximately Sign Deal For Multi-Milconfronting the& Caribbean region. 40 million people, Loan Forislands, Climate wholion live Dollar across two dozen are Change in a state of increased vulnerability due to changing weather patterns exasperated by climate change. Like most small island developing states, Antigua and Barbuda faces challenges originating from its small size and geographical location, small economy, limited infrastructure, and high vulnerability to natural disasters, such as hurricanes. The country’s effort to combat climate change and to prepare for its effects are being taken seriously, as demonstrated by Prime Minister Gaston Browne’s recent signing of a concessionary loan agreement with the Abu Dhabi Fund Development (ADFD) for US$15,000,000. The money is to go towards the development of an innovative new hybrid solar and wind generation project in the twin island. This agreement was signed in January at the 7th Annual Assembly of the International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA) in Abu Dhabi between Director General of the ADFD Mohammed Saif al Suwaidi and Prime Minister Browne. The initial 10MW project, rising to 25 MW in subsequent phases, is expected to bring clean energy to the populace of about 90,000, with the focus of providing energy for the operation of drinking water desalination plants, health and other essential facilities. Commenting on the announcement, the Director General of ADFD said: “Addressing the funding and skills gap in fast emerging economies, like Antigua and Barbuda, are crucial in accelerating the uptake of renewable energy solutions that can support sustainable socio-economic development in the long-term.” He added, “The project will play a major part in the country’s 20 percent target for renewable sources by 2018 and will support its work towards meeting its Sustainable Development Goals.” Antigua and Barbuda was amongst countries in Paris in 2015, which brokered the agreement to reduce greenhouse gas emissions in an effort to avoid catastrophic environmental damage. In April 2016, Prime Minister Browne signed the agreement ensuring the nation will implement the national climate plans and integrate them into the overall sustainable development plans. •

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Dec /Feb

N e w St u dy Predicts C l i m at e C h a n g e Will Lead to Annual Coral Bleaching in the Caribbean New Study Predicts Climate Lead to AnA new study has predicted thatChange if currentWill trends continue the world fails toin reduce greenhouse gas emissions, nualand Coral Bleaching the Caribbean nearly all of the world’s coral reefs, including many in the Caribbean, will suffer severe bleaching – the gravest threat to one of the Earth’s most important ecosystems. The finding is part of a study funded by the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) and partners, which reviewed new climate change projections to predict which corals will be affected first and at what rate. The report is published in the nature journal Scientific Reports. Researchers found that the reefs in Taiwan and the Turks and Caicos archipelago will be among the first to experience annual bleaching, followed by reefs off the coast of Bahrain, in Chile and in French Polynesia. Calling the predictions “a treasure trove” for environmentalists, the head of the UN agency, Erik Solheim, said the projects allow conservationists and governments to prioritise reef protection. “The projections show us where we still have time to act before it’s too late,” Solheim said. On average, the reefs started undergoing annual bleaching from 2014, according to the study. Without the required minimum of five years to regenerate, the annual occurrences will have a deadly effect on the corals and disrupt the ecosystems which they support, UNEP said. However, it said that if governments act on emission reduction pledges made in the Paris Agreement, which calls on countries to combat climate change and limit global temperature rise to below two degrees Celsius, the corals would have another 11 years to adapt to the warming seas. Between 2014 and 2016, UNEP said the world witnessed the longest global bleaching event recorded. Among the casualties, it said, was the Great Barrier Reef, with 90 percent of it bleached and 20 percent of the reef’s coral killed •

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MAJOR MOVES

She noted that her interest lies in politics as well as policy formation and added that she holds the view that more women should get involved in politics. Prime Minister Gaston Browne, who appointed her, said, “Aziza Lake comes very qualified, she has two degrees and in addition to that very experience I understand she is one of the star workers at ABS…she was recommended to us by someone at ABS as a very progressive young lady who has the capacity to contribute at that level.”

Tahseen Sayed Khan has a deep knowledge of country programs and a track record of strong delivery and innovation. She holds a Master's degree in Law and Diplomacy specializing in Development Studies from the Tufts University Fletcher School of Law and Diplomacy, USA.•

Lake is a producer employed at state-owned media Antigua Broadcasting Services. She was born and raised in the Grays Farm community. Her appointment took effect on February 3. • CBH Gets New Chairman The reshuffling of several officials on various statutory corporations has paved the way for the appointment of Leroy Adams as the new Chairman of the Central Board of Health, Board of Directors.

Digicel Executive Re-Elected as CANTO Chairman The Digicel Group’s Julian Wilkins, director of government relations and public affairs, has been re-elected chairman of the Caribbean Association of National Telecommunication Organisations (CANTO), which provides a forum for exchange of information and expertise.

He received his instruments of appointment from the Governor General, His Excellency Sir Rodney Williams on January 10, 2017. Adams brings to the table a wealth of experience having previously served as Antigua Port Manager, Chairman of the Antigua and Barbuda Transport Board (ABTB) and Chairman of the Board of the Medical Benefits Scheme (MBS).

The announcement was made during CANTO’s annual general meeting in Curacao on Jan. 31, which focused on the theme: Reimagining ICT as a tool for national growth and development.

He served on the Medical Benefits Scheme Board until November 2016, after which he was transferred to the Central Board of Health. • World Bank Appoints New Country Director For The Caribbean Tahseen Sayed Khan is the new Country Director for Caribbean countries. She will be responsible for maintaining a solid partnership with the countries to address their development and financial challenges.

A new Senator is appointed Aziza Lake has been appointed Senator, and as one of the youngest in the Senate, she said she plans on using the platform to bring to the forefront the concerns of the youths of the nation. Lake, 33, is a Mid-Western University graduate with degrees in Political Science and I.T Engineering.

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“It is an honour for me to be working in the Caribbean,” said Tahseen Sayed Khan. I look forward to deepening our engagement with governments, development partners, civil society, and the private sector, to boost inclusive growth and reduce poverty in the Caribbean”. Tahseen, a Pakistani national, was previously Country Manager for Albania in the Europe and Central Asia region. She joined the Bank in 1997 as a social sector specialist in South Asia and has since held various positions, including as Lead Education Specialist, Operations Adviser, and Country Manager for Nepal.

Wilkins said, “Reimagining ICT is high on CANTO’s agenda and focuses on ICT connectivity, fostering an environment which stimulates the creativity so necessary for the development of our national and regional markets.” The Antiguan and Barbudan native added, “This is where we look to our governments and regulators to create the right environment to incentivise investment in the Caribbean region.” Wilkins has worked with British Telecom in the United Kingdom, as well as the Antigua Public Utilities Authority where he successfully launched the first GSM mobile network in the English-speaking Caribbean. He joined Digicel Trinidad and Tobago in 2006 as operations and maintenance manager and in 2008 transferred to the Digicel group’s legal and regulatory department. Wilkins was first elected as CANTO chairman in 2015. •

MAJOR MOVES Jacqueline Jno-Baptiste replaces Sonia Grant who finished her Interim Director of Nursing role at the end of December. Nurse Grant will continue in her role as a part of the senior executive nursing team at the hospital. •

Aruba (DNECA) in September 2016 as the newly appointed Diocesan Secretary (DS), the youngest DS within the region. Being the hub, her intention is to improve the Diocese and to change the culture of the organization, making the Bishop’s Lodge the most efficient and effective operation in the Diocese. •

Mount St. John’s Medical Centre Appoints New Director of Nursing Jacqueline Jno-Baptiste has been appointed the Director of Nursing at Mount St. John’s Medical Centre (MSJMC). Jacqueline’s focus will be to maintain the high standards of clinical and patient-centered care the hospital delivers, sustain existing good practice, embed consistent high quality care, and help ensure patients have a positive patient experience. She has over 30 years of experience in nursing and has held several positions in healthcare to include Infection Control Nurse, Quality Coordinator, Clinical Education Manager and Human Resources Manager. In accepting the position, Jno-Baptiste said, “I am humbled and delighted to have been appointed as the new Director of Nursing at Mount St. John’s Medical Centre. This is a wonderful hospital and my predecessor has already set the standards very high so I’m really looking forward to working with staff across the hospital to build on the wide range of work already underway to deliver the very highest standards of patient care.” MSJMC Medical Director, Dr. Albert Duncan said: “I am very pleased to welcome Nurse Jacqueline as the hospital’s new Director of Nursing. She brings with her a great deal of experience, gathered from a range of nursing and strategic roles. Her passion for what she does is infectious and I’m in no doubt that Jacqueline will play a key role in driving new initiatives and further developing services at our hospital, while providing experienced leadership and direction for our nursing teams.”

DNECA appoints youngest Diocesan Secretary within the region Ms Carol Beazer has been an educator for the last fifteen years and was attached to the Antigua State College since 2004 in the Department of Business as a senior lecturer in Business, Management and HR Management. She obtained her Bachelors of Business Administration degree in Administrative Management from the University of Technology, Jamaica and later worked a short stint at one of the most prestigious marketing firms, the Oral McCook Marketing Company, before returning back home to Antigua. Ms Beazer later completed her Masters degree in Human Resource Management and Development from the University of Leicester, England. Given her keen interest in understanding human behaviour, it was no surprise when her curiosity led her to undertake research in the area of employee motivation and the factors that would cause employees to perform at their best within the workplace. Ms. Beazer was employed as the Corporate Relations Manager at Axcel Finance Ltd, a regional microfinance institution, which has aided her significantly in adding to her knowledge and business acumen. She has been a member of the St Paul’s Anglican Church since birth and joined the team at the Diocese of the North Eastern Caribbean &

RBC (Antigua) gets a new country manager Edmund Joachim is the new Country Manager – for RBC (Royal Bank of Canada) Antigua branch moving from Trinidad to take up his most recent role here. Joachim grew up in St Vincent and the Grenadines, but pursued his tertiary education in the United Kingdom, studying at Loughborough University where he completed his Bachelors in Computing and Management. In his final year, he signed a pre-contract with Digicel SVG Ltd to become the Marketing Executive, a role he held for three years before pursuing his masters. He holds a Master’s degree in International Marketing Management from the University of Surrey graduating with Merit. He is also a director within his family’s company, Joachim & Associates, offering business and marketing consultancy to a number of local and regional organisations, including EU funded projects. In April 2012, Edmund was recruited by RBC to join the Caribbean Banking Leadership Program. Under that programme he performed rotational assignments in Sales & Service Effectiveness, Risk Management, CCOM – Common Caribbean Operating Model and Procurement. In his previous role as Branch Manager throughout the Trinidad Network, he has performed similar

BusinessFocus

Mar/May

MAJOR MOVES functions. Edmund brings a wealth of experience, knowledge and management capabilities gained throughout his career to this new role..•

Torres de Navarra oversees the strategic planning and execution with respect to port development and port-related commercial agreements. He also works with Carnival Corporation brands, which docks in Antigua, and destination stakeholders to optimise port strategies, and agreements as well as planning long-term strategies across regions. •

FCCA Operations Committee Appoints New Chairman

WICB gets new CEO Johnny Grave is the new Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of The West Indies Cricket Board (WICB), following a rigorous recruitment process led by PricewaterhouseCoopers, Barbados. Grave officially joined the organisation on February 1, 2017 with a wealth of experience from both the Professional Cricketers’ Association (PCA) in the UK, where he has been the Commercial Director for the past nine years and Surrey County Cricket Club, where he held several senior leadership roles. The top priorities for the new CEO will be the management and oversight of the WICB’s US$40 million budget, the creation of new commercial opportunities, helping to drive revenue into the whole game, along with an increased focus on player relations and improved performances on and off the field. Among the new CEO’s other tasks from his Antigua-based office, will be to develop and deliver the WICB’s strategic plans, and build on the existing framework started by former CEO, Michael Muirhead. Speaking of his appointment, Grave said, “I am delighted to have been given the honour of becoming the new CEO of the WICB. I am genuinely excited by the opportunity of improving cricket at all levels within the region and am looking forward to working with the many stakeholders who are committed to the long-term development of West Indies Cricket.” The new CEO holds an Executive MBA from the Cass Business School in London and is a graduate from the University of Leeds. • BusinessFocus

Mar /May

The Florida-Caribbean Cruise Association (FCCA) has announced the appointment of Carlos Torres de Navarra, vice president of strategic and commercial port development for Carnival Cruise Line, as the new FCCA operations committee chairman, effective January 1, 2017. "I am excited to assume the role of chairman of the FCCA operations committee and continue to build upon the successes the group has already achieved," said Torres de Navarra. "We will be focused on strengthening our relationships with destinations, ports and our FCCA members, along with representing the industry to achieve mutual success. Additional focus will be placed on continuing to develop and enhance the guest experience at the destinations and to further expand opportunities for all our partners." Torres de Navarra has shown his unwavering dedication to the committee and FCCA's platinum members and partner destinations through over a decade of providing invaluable interaction, participation, information and assistance at FCCA meetings and events. These efforts exhibit his commitment to the committee's functions: discussing cruise industry topics, such as tourism development, ports, safety and security; fostering an understanding of the industry and its practices; building bilateral relationships with FCCA's partner destinations' private and public sectors; fostering increased revenue opportunities for ports and destinations; and enhancing the destination experience and amount of cruise passengers returning as stay-over visitors.

Massy gets a new CEO Massy United Insurance has a new Chief Executive Officer. The leading regional insurance provider, has announced that Randy Graham has assumed the position of CEO from Howard Hall, who continues as Chairman of the Financial Services Line of Business (LOB) for the Massy Group. Graham affirmed his commitment to his new role. “I am thrilled to have the opportunity to lead one of the Caribbean’s premier insurance providers,” he stated, “and Massy United Insurance remains more committed than ever to providing customers with the security and assurance they deserve.” Graham is the former CEO of the Financial Services Commission (FSC) in Barbados. Pointing to Graham’s background and experience, Hall asserted, “Randy is no stranger to the insurance industry and his expertise there and in the finance sector will only help further the progress of Massy United Insurance”. He further praised his successor, stating, “I enthusiastically welcome Randy, who is ready and well-equipped to assume the reins of Massy United Insurance.” Hall, who joined Massy United Insurance in August 2011, also expressed excitement about his new position, remarking, “As changes in the financial sector are occurring at a rapid pace, it is important that the Massy Group maintains its position as an industry leader and the development of the Financial Services Line of Business, is an example of our commitment to providing our clients with the best possible offerings and services”. •

EVENTS 2017 regional entertainment, trade shows and conferences

CaribNOG 13

Events 2017

Road Town, Tortola, BVI – APR. 17 - 20, 2017 CaribNOG will be hosting its thirteenth regional gathering, CaribNOG 13 in Road Town, Tortola, BVI from April 17-20 2017. CaribNOG is a critical forum on the region’s technology landscape for rich technical discussions where we seek to better position the Caribbean to address critical technology challenges and issues and to collaboratively derive relevant solutions. CaribNOG13 is expected to draw industry experts from across the region and around the world.

STEP CC17 Caribbean Conference Grand Cayman, Cayman Islands - MAY 1 - 3, 2017 Join the thought leaders of STEP Caribbean Conference in the Cayman Islands from May 1 - 3, 2017 to network, engage and most importantly, build your business and your business acumen. Moving confidently through the corridors of international business, connecting with thought leaders from around the world and staying abreast of the myriad of issues and regulatory changes that have become the norm in the trust world. For almost 20 years, STEP Caribbean Conference has brought together senior professionals, emerging leaders and today's thought leaders from around the region and around the globe.

CARAIFA's 31st Annual Sales Congress Bridgetown, Barbados – MAY 21 - 24, 2017 The Caribbean Association of Insurance and Financial Advisors will be hosting its 31st Annual Sales Congress 2017 in Barbados from May 21- 24. Regular registration deadline is April 14. Register under the theme: "The Power of Imagination". CARAIFA is an umbrella organization of regional life underwriting associations whose members are engaged primarily in the sale of the products of life insurance and financial services companies.

CHTA’s CHIEF and Taste of the Caribbean Conference 2017 Miami, Florida – JUNE 2 - 4, 2017 The Caribbean Hotel and Tourism Association (CHTA) announced that the Caribbean Hotel Industry Exchange Forum (CHIEF) is set for the first week of June alongside the popular Taste of the Caribbean educational experience, cultural showcase and culinary competition. CHIEF will be held from June 2 to 4, 2017, while Taste of the Caribbean is slated for June 2 to 6. Both events will be held at the Hyatt Regency Miami.

BusinessFocus

Mar/May

EVENTS 2017 regional entertainment, trade shows and conferences

37th Annual Caribbean Insurance Conference Punta Cana, Dominican Republic – JUNE 4 - 6, 2017 The 37th Annual Caribbean Insurance Conference, organized by the Insurance Association of the Caribbean (IAC) and Life Insurance and Market Research Association (LIMRA), Life Office Management Association (LOMA) will take place June 4-6, 2017 at the Hard Rock Hotel in Punta Cana, Dominican Republic. This conference provides excellent networking opportunities and is the ideal medium for sharing information on how the industry is evolving in life/health and property/ casualty industry.

Caribbean and International Credit Union Leaders and Practitioners Convention Varadero, Cuba - JUNE 16 - 21, 2017 Caribbean and International Credit Union Leaders and Practitioners will assemble in Varadero, Cuba for the 60th Annual International Convention and 46th Annual General Meeting of the Caribbean Confederation of Credit Unions [CCCU], which will be held from June 16 – 21, in Varadero, Cuba, under the theme “Co-operatives: Re-shaping Caribbean Sustainable Development.” This is the first time this event will be held in Cuba and whereas there are no financial co-operatives or credit unions in that country, there are a number of other co-operatives that operate in the agricultural and manufacturing sectors. It is anticipated that this event will also afford opportunities to introduce the concept of financial co-operatives to the Cuban public.

ICAC’s 35th Annual Caribbean Conference of Accountants Georgetown, Guyana – JUNE 22 - 24, 2017 The Institute of Chartered Accountants of the Caribbean’s (ICAC) 35th Annual Caribbean Conference of Accountants will be held on June 22 to 24, 2017 under the theme, “New Horizons, Charting the Course Together” in Guyana. National accounting bodies within the Caribbean region are eligible to join the ICAC provided that they meet the criteria for membership. Affiliate membership is open to accountancy, regulatory, certification and monitoring bodies of regional and international stature.

CANTO's 33rd Annual Conference & Trade Exhibition / 11th Annual Human Resource Forum / 4th SMCC Forum Hard Rock Hotel & Casino, Punta Cana, Dominican Republic – JUly 16 - 19, 2017 Caribbean Association of National Telecommunications Organisations will be holding the Caribbean’s Premier Telecommunications Event attracting over 600 Industry Professionals, Regional Operators, Regional Governments and over 65 International Suppliers as Exhibitors.

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NEW COMPANY REGISTRATIONS Registrations COMPANY DIRECTORS COMPANYNAME NAME New Company DIRECTORS FREETOWN COTTAGE DEVELOPMENT LIMITED INFINITY CONSTRUCTION LTD.

KENT MCPARLAND

LUMAC TECH LTD.

CURTIS MCKAY & CHEYENNE ST. LUCE

DREAMMOTION (TRADING GROUP) INC.

MIGUEL BROWNE, GHAMALE HENRY, OMAR NATHANIEL, OMAR ALLEN, TYSON WILLET, LERON THOMAS, YURI CHRISTIAN, KHALID JACKSON, ATIBA THOMAS, DAVID PATRICK JOHN FIRKINS

JARAMAN ANTIGUA LIMITED

AYERS CREEK RESIDENCE 10 LIMITED NS HOLDINGS LTD. SP LOGISTICS LTD.

RUBICON HOLDINGS LTD.

COLLINMORE G. BROWNE

CAMERON FRASER & IAN FRASER TOMAS HELLIER RICARDO F. DRAYTON & CURTIS GEORGE

ANNA-MARIA JOSEPH & MARSHA J. MOSS THE PLEX (ANTIGUA) LIMITED MIGUEL BROWNE, GHAMALE HENRY, OMAR NATHANIEL, OMAR ALLEN, TYSON WILLET, LERON THOMAS, YURI CHRISTIAN, KHALID JACKSON, ATIBA THOMAS, DAVID PATRICK, ANDREAS MICHAEL, KENROY PLACIDE ANCAGEL LTD. MANUEL RANGEL, VINDI BUILDING AND CONSTRUCTION LTD. DION FRANCIS SYNDICATED COMMERCIAL AGENCIES LTD. CRAIG E.M. CHRISTOPHER

NATURE NATURE DEVELOPMENT AND MANAGEMENT OF COTTAGES. CONSTRUCTION MANAGEMENT, GENERAL CONTRACTING, BUILDING CONSTRUCTION. INFORMATION/COMMUNICATION, TECHNOLOGY, CONSULTING AND OTHER SERVICES RELATED THERETO. IMPORT AND EXPORT (TRADING OF GENERAL MERCHANDISE).

THE PROPOSED COMPANY WILL OWN, OPERATE, LEASE SHIPS AND ENGAGE ACTIVITIES RELATING TO SHIPS. REAL ESTATE DEVELOPMENT. HOLDING COMPANY. COURIER, AIR AND OCEAN CARGO, FREIGHT FORWARDING, PROCUREMENT, TRANSPORTATION AND DISTRIBUTION. HOLDING COMPANY FOR PROPERTY. FACILITY FOR RECREATIONAL PURPOSES INCLUDING GO-CART, POOL TABLES AND OTHER SUCH ACTIVITIES.

RESTAURANT AND CATERING. CONSTRUCTION AND BUILDING. WHOLESALE, RENTAL, MANUFACTURE, DISTRIBUTION OF FOOD AND BEVERAGE PRODUCTS.

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NEW COMPANY REGISTRATIONS

COMPANY NAME MAR ENTERPRISES LTD.

DIRECTORS ARTHUR FENTON & MICHAEL BENOIT

NELSON'S RETREAT DEVELOPMENT LIMITED ROBERT J. WILKINSON STONES OF FIRE AND POWER MINISTRY INC. NEIL JOSEPH, ANDRE PIGOTT & JENNIFER PIGOTT ANDREW WILLIAMS CONSULTING LTD.

ANDREW WILLIAMS & HELEN WILLIAMS

SANITY4LIFE LTD. ACHIEVE GLOBAL INC.

KARL BELIZAIRE LIHUA TIAN

CORLIN INVESTMENTS LIMITED

BRYAN BABCOCK & BETSY BABCOCK. MICHELLE THOMPSON

INCANTO LIMITED L.A. DEVELOPMENT COMPANY LTD.

LAUCHLAND THOMAS & ANTOINETTE THOMAS

E-TRENDS LTD.

CLOYDELL EDWARDS & DIONNE ISAACS BREANDIS COURTNEY LEWIS, MARCELLA PAUL & JEMELLA BASCUS DAVID MARTIN & CANTER DE JAGGER KRYSTLE GRANT

HOLY SPIRIT & POWER OF CHRIST MINISTRY INC.

IMCP LTD. IT IDEAS FUND LTD.

CARIBBEAN WORLD FREE TRADE CENTER LIMITED

VERE HILL

CASANOVA'S - GL RESTAURANT LTD. ELEGANT TRAVEL LTD.

GABE NADOOR ANAS HOURANI

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NATURE SELLING OF CAR PARTS, REPAIR AND SALE OF VEHICLES, AUTO RENTAL AND RETAIL BUILDING MATERIALS. PROPERTY DEVELOPMENT. TO ESTABLISH AND MAINTAINAN ORGANIZED BONA-FIDE CHURCH OF THE CHRISTIAN FAITH TO PURSUE EDUCATION AND CHARITABLE PROGRAM. A SPECIALIST INTERNATIONAL CONSULTING COMPANY PROVIDING SUPPORT SERVICES TO LAW ENFORCEMENT, HOMELAND SECURITY BORDER AND TRANSPORT SECURITY AGENCIES AND THE JUSTICE SECTOR. OCEAN AND LAND EXCURSIONS AND TOURS. YACHT CHARTERS AND OTHER BOAT RELATED BUSINESS. REAL ESTATE INVESTMENT. RESTAURANT AND BAR, IMPORT AND EXPORT OF GOODS. CONSTRUCTION, ARCHITECTURAL DESIGN, BUILDING ENGINEERING PROPERTY DEVELOPMENT. TO OWN, MANAGE, LEASE AND/OR SEAL REAL ESTATE. NON-PROFIT ORGANISATION GEARED TOWARDS BUILDING LIVES.

MANUFACTURE ROOFING AND PAVING PRODUCTS. THE COMPANY WISHES TO DESIGN AND STIMULATE THE DESIGN OF ALL FORMS OF TECHNOLOGY TO CREATE STORE EXCHANGE AND UTILISE INFORMATION IN ITS VARIOUS FORM INCLUDING BUSINESS DATA, CONVERSATIONS STILL IMAGES, MOTION PICTURES AND MULTIMEDIA PRESENTATIONS. TO CARRY ON BUSINESS AS PROPRIETORS OF AN EXHIBITION CENTRE AND AS PROMOTERS AND ORGANIZERS OF ALL TYPES OF ACTIVITIES INCIDENTAL THERETO. RESTAURANT. LUXURIOUS TRANSPORTATION SERVICES, ANY OTHER BUSINESS ACTIVITY RELATED TO THE FOREGOING THAT, IS PERMITTED UNDER THE LAWS OF ANTIGUA & BARBUDA.

NEW COMPANY REGISTRATIONS

COMPANY NAME

DIRECTORS

CLEAR SKIES DEVELOPMENT AND MANAGEMENT COMPANY LTD. EMPIRICA HOLDINGS LIMITED ZEMI ART GALLERY LTD. ISLAND SPARK HOLDING LTD.

PAULA JOSEPH & ASRIAH JOHN JASON HADEED STEPHEN MURPHEY RAMASH SANKAR, HAAWANTIE SANKAR & CHRISTOPHER STEVEN SANKAR SYLVIA O'MARD LAW CHAMBERS INC. SYLVIA N. CAMACHO O' MARD HENRY & BURNETTE INC. E. ANN HENRY & C. DEBRA BURNETTE H. HARRIS ENTERPRISE COMPANY LIMITED HYACINTH ICILMA HARRIS,

VALLEY BEACH RESORTS LTD. SILVER CHELLES LIMITED DIAMOND CARIBBEAN PROPERTIES LIMITED THE LODGE @JOHN HUGHES INC.

JON-GAB DEVELOPMENT LTD. TRAFALGAR ZAMORA LIMITED ZAMORA ANTIGUA COMPASS MEDIA GROUP LTD. ANTIGUA AND BARBUDA ST. JOHN'S TAXI ASSOCIATION INC.

SHERRY GREENE,

EBUZZ NETWORK LTD.

DOYLE CARTER, KENLIE BROWNE, KAREEM JOHN FRANZ BIGLER

JUST CANVAS LIMITED SIBONEY (2016) LTD.

LUIGI INVESTMENT ANTIGUA LIMITED

REAL ESTATE DEVELOPMENT MANAGEMENT. HOLDING COMPANY FOR REAL ESTATE. RETAIL OF ARTS AND CRAFT. SALE AND PRINTING OF ISLAND STYLE T-SHIRTS CLOTHING INCLUDING BEACH WEAR, BAGS, FLIP FLOPS, HATS AND SOUVENIRS. ANY AND ALL ASPECT OF BUSINESS DEALING WITH AND/OR RELATING TO LEGAL SERVICES. LEGAL SERVICES.

ANY AND ALL ASPECT OF BUSINESS DEALING WITH AND/OR RELATING TO RENTING OF VEHICLES, TRUCKING AND BACKHOE SERVICES. WHITFIELD HARRIS & DR. THE DEVELOPMENT AND OPERATION OF CLEOPATRA GITTENS. LEISURE RESORTS AND CONDOMINIUMS. MICHELLESBATES. SALES OF JEWELLERYS AND MANAGE THE OPERATIONS OF SILVER CHELLES. XIANGDONG LI & TO PURCHASE AND DEVELOP LANDS AND TO RADFORD HILL CONSTRUCT VILLA APARTMENTS AND CONDOMINIUMS. MAKEDA MIKAEL & HOSPITALITY SERVICES SMALL GUEST HEATHER MANNIX, HOUSE/HOTEL BAR AND RESTAURANT PROVIDING ACCOMMODATIONS. DR. EDMOND MANSOOR PROPERTY HOLDING AND REAL ESTATE MANAGEMENT. CHAMBIR CHAUHAN HOLDING COMPANY FOR REAL ESTATE. CHAMBIR CHAUHAN, HOLDING COMPANY FOR REAL ESTATE. MICKEL BRANN CHALLENGE RADIO,TELEVISION AND COMMUNICATION & ALICIA SIMON, FUNCTIONS. EVANSON ELLIS, TOURISM, TRANSPORTATION MANAGEMENT. WINSTON CHARLES, GERNAL ROBERTS, PATRICK BURNETTE, DORREL VALENTINE, LEROY JOHN BAPTISTE, TREVOR & VAUGHN JOSEPH,

COVE HEAD COMMUNICATIONS LTD.

ARCHES BUILDING SYSTEM (CARIBBEAN) LIMITED

NATURE

S. ROY G. BENTO, KEVIN GOMEZ & RUSSELL HADEED MARIAN BARBARA HESSE

COMMUNICATION AND OTHER BUSINESS SERVICES RELATED THERETO. MARKETING ANDPROMOTION OF SOCIAL EVENTS. 48. C227/16 ARCHES BUILDING SYSTEM (CARIBBEAN) LIMITED, FRANZ BIGLER, STEEL FRAME HOUSES. OWNING UPHOLSTERY BOAT SALES AND ALL TYPES OF CANVAS WORK. PROPERTY DEVELOPMENT, HOTEL MANAGEMENT, GUEST SERVICES AND ACTIVITIES RELATED THERETO. MANAGEMENT CONSULTING INVESTMENT. BusinessFocus

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ADVERTISERâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S INDEX

COMPANY

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Antigua and Barbuda Airport Authority Axcel Finance

43 3

Brysons Shipping & Insurance

BWC Enterprise

Community First Co-operative Credit Union Ltd

Cool & smooth

Copper and Lumber Hotel

Crab Hole Liquors

Eastern Caribbean Amalgamated Bank

First Caribbean International Bank

Flo's Perfume

GIG Furniture

inet

Lennox

Majestic Realty

Mimi Tian

Medical Benefits Scheme

NobRac

OBMI

Outdoor World Antigua

Premier Cru

Quay Necessities

Refrigeration Services Limited

Regional Publications Ltd

Sagicor

SSSAB

State Insurance Corporation

Tannins

Tropical Landscaping

Wings Inc

WiseBox

Woods Urgent Care

COVERS Budget Marine

IFC

APUA

IBC

Sun General

OBC

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