AGP Executive Report
Last update: 7 hours agoRenewables Push: Minister Shawn Edward says Saint Lucia should cut fuel dependence by accelerating solar and geothermal adoption, including a proposed five-year VAT zero-rate on solar panels, batteries, inverters and installation. Airport Upgrade: Hewanorra International Airport redevelopment is “advanced,” with the air traffic control tower about 95% complete and expected to be fully functional in early 2027. Road Works: Infrastructure Minister Shawn Edward toured Vieux Fort North and Choiseul, outlining phased rehabilitation for the Canelles–Vigé stretch and the Chu Tigre road. Water Loss Cuts: WASCO, with JICA support, is targeting a 5% reduction in non-revenue water by fixing leaks, repairing meters and tackling unauthorised use. Skills for Industry: CARICOM’s push for stronger TVET is echoed in Saint Lucia’s TVET centres, as regional leaders stress practical and digital skills for jobs. Food Security: Egg shortages are linked to farmers turning over flocks; the Agriculture Minister calls for tighter coordination with registered producers. Consumer/Business Watch: The Chamber of Commerce urges caution on calls for Carnival Monday and Tuesday public holidays, warning of operational strain on businesses. Regional Trade/Policy: A U.S. Section 201 safeguard on quartz surface products starts Aug. 15, with tariff-rate quota limits that could raise costs for importers. Scholarships: Saint Lucia Cruise Port awarded two 2026 undergraduate scholarships covering tuition and living costs for STEM and non-STEM study abroad.
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.