AGP Executive Report
Last update: 8 hours agoRenewables Push: Energy Minister Shawn Edward says Saint Lucia must accelerate solar and geothermal to cut fuel costs and protect households from global oil price shocks. Airport Upgrade: At Hewanorra International Airport, the air traffic control tower is about 95% complete and could be fully functional by early 2027, while the wider HIA redevelopment is at an advanced stage with a contractor selected. Road Works: Infrastructure Minister Shawn Edward toured Vieux Fort North and Choiseul, mapping phased rehabilitation for the Canelles–Vigé stretch and the Chu Tigre area road. Water Loss Cuts: WASCO, with Japan’s JICA, is targeting a 5% reduction in non-revenue water over the next few years by fixing leaks, meters, and stopping unauthorised use. Tourism & Markets: Saint Lucia’s tourism is absorbing a higher U.S. travel advisory impact with limited cancellations, but officials stress the need to diversify visitor sources. Food Security: Agriculture Minister Lisa Jawahir links the egg shortage to farmers turning over flocks and calls for tighter coordination with registered producers. Cruise Port Scholarships: Saint Lucia Cruise Port awarded two 2026 undergraduate scholarships covering tuition and living costs for STEM and non-STEM study abroad. Skills Development: Saint Lucia’s TVET centres are highlighted regionally as CARICOM urges stronger vocational and digital skills for jobs. Local Business Climate: The Chamber of Commerce urges caution on calls for adding Carnival public holidays, warning of operational strain on businesses. Energy Tax Relief Plan: Minister Keithson Charles proposes zero-rating VAT on solar panels, batteries, inverters and installation services for five years. Consumer Protection: Authorities warn a viral “expired food” claim was not recorded in Saint Lucia, as officials reiterate food safety and consumer awareness steps. AI Buildathon: Future Caribbean says 450-plus builders from 39 countries are developing deployable agentic AI solutions across sectors including logistics, food systems and energy. Diplomacy & Tech Links: Taiwan ICDF marks 30 years and points to cooperation projects including agricultural and digital governance work in Saint Lucia.
Note: AI summary from news headlines; neutral sources weighted more to help reduce bias in the result. Feedback is welcome. Please let us know if you have any comments or suggestions about the AGP Executive Report.