11TH European Development Fund Implementation Report 2017- 2023

Assumptions and Risks

Assumptions

While the requisite groundwork was undertaken to justify the demand for and relevancy of the work programme, the following assumptions were made: • There is a continued commitment by member states to the implementation of the EPA as a framework to promote private sector development. • Member states remain committed to pursuing reform of regulations and procedures to create a more conducive business enabling environment for private sector growth. • Regional integration remains a priority given changes within the Caribbean political landscape. Risks Likewise, the following considerations were made to the possible risks: • Natural disasters can have a significant impact on the ability of factors to implement programme activities successfully. • International markets can be disrupted by major economic, social, and political crises and instability. • Exchange rate volatility can affect implementation. • New and existing trade rules can discourage most Caribbean MSMEs’ trade and investment. Regional integration policies and main barriers to the flow of goods, services, capital and labour can be impacted by the wider political context.

Implementation of the 11th European Development Fund (EDF) Regional Private Sector Development Programme (RPSDP)

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