Housing Finance: Parliament approved a Government guarantee for a US$20 million loan via the Saint Lucia Development Bank to expand low- to medium-income housing finance, including support for repairs, extensions, renovations, drainage, retaining walls and renewable energy/rainwater harvesting; Opposition raised concerns in the Senate. Macroeconomic Outlook: The World Bank projects Saint Lucia growth of 1.1% for 2026 after a 0.6% contraction in 2025, with tourism-dependent islands facing high energy and transport costs. Energy Costs: Fuel and cooking gas subsidies were increased to keep retail prices steady (gasoline, diesel, kerosene and 20-lb/22-lb LPG unchanged) while larger LPG cylinders and bulk LPG rose. Food Recall: GraceKennedy Foods recalled specific batches of Grace Tropical Rhythms Fruit Punch 1L (best-before codes BB JUL 21 27 L6 and BB JUL 22 27 L6) across multiple markets including Saint Lucia, citing a product-quality issue, not food safety. Geothermal Push: Saint Lucia’s geothermal exploration is now ongoing in Saltibus, Fond St Jacques and Belle Plaine, with relocation of two families and next steps including civil works and drilling preparations. Water Trucking Regulation: Water truckers transporting water for resale must obtain a licence from NURC under new regulations covering safety, liability and business management. Clean Energy Support: CDB launched a US$500,000 initiative to back women-led businesses developing clean energy solutions, including St. Lucia. Connectivity: EllaLink advanced its Caribbean Gateway into the development phase, targeting service by end-2029 and linking multiple islands to its transatlantic network.