Projects to Improve Regional Travel, Trade and Logistics

Caribbean countries are looking at a regional ferry service, which could revolutionise travel and trade among the islands, reducing the dependence on air transport and making travel more affordable.

The private sector-led project will transport both passengers and cargo.

Prime Minister of Barbados, Hon. Mia Mottley, in her address at the opening ceremony at the 49th Regular Meeting of the Conference of Heads of Government of CARICOM, in Montego Bay on July 6, urged the region’s leaders to embrace the initiative.

Prime Minister Mottley, who chaired CARICOM for the past six months before handing over to Prime Minister, the Most Hon. Andrew Holness, noted that regional transportation has historically been a vital component of Caribbean integration.

“Decades ago, we operated passenger ships that connected our islands efficiently. It’s time to revisit and democratise travel once again, harnessing our geographical advantage as island nations in the Caribbean Sea,” she said.

Prime Minister Mottley also cited proactive measures to diversify trade and improve food security, including a recent trade delegation to Brazil, where regional leaders began exploring new markets for food and other essential goods at more affordable prices.

She further acknowledged the ongoing efforts to enhance the regional logistics infrastructure.

“Two CARICOM Member States are now exploring the acquisition of cargo planes to improve our supply chains,” she disclosed.

Turning to the issue of climate change, Prime Minister Mottley noted that the region is on the front lines of the climate crisis, with severe weather events threatening agriculture, infrastructure, and way of life.

“This underscores the importance of regional cooperation in climate resilience, sustainable development, and economic diversification,” she said.

“We must think boldly, act collectively, and leverage our regional identity to face external shocks,” she emphasised.

Prime Minister Mottley urged Caribbean nations to continue building resilient institutions, deepen intra-regional trade, and pursue innovative solutions to age-old problems.

“We have the power of vision, the strength of effort, and the spirit of resilience,” she affirmed.

“The Caribbean can and must forge a path of self-sufficiency, shared prosperity, and security if we work together with purpose and conviction,” she added.