CE 2025 Annual Results Report web

MESSAGES

Message from the European Union

For 30 years the European Union and Caribbean Export have worked in close partnership to support private sector development across the Caribbean, rooted in a shared commitment to sustainable growth, enhanced competitiveness, and the value-added of deepening economic cooperation between our 2 regions. A key focus of our partnership has been the implementation of the CARIFORUM–EU Economic Partnership Agreement, a trade agreement which provides duty-free and quota-free access for all Caribbean goods and services to the European Single Market, allowing them to reach approximately 450 million consumers. Working together has created opportunities for Caribbean firms to strengthen their export capabilities, improve competitiveness, attract investments and adapt to the changing global economy. Specifically, the European Union has supported the diversification and competitiveness of Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) across the region through actions that equip businesses with the tools to increase their competitiveness in international markets using digital and green technologies. In 2025 alone, over 2,000 companies participated in business support activities and targeted interventions designed to strengthen export readiness, innovation capacity, logistics, and regulatory compliance. In addition, 18 firms benefited from participation in two trade fairs in Europe, while €1 million in grant funding was allocated to support investments in innovation, digitalisation, and green solutions. The results of this collaboration are part of the European Union’s broader support across the Caribbean region to promote investment, innovation and entrepreneurship as set out in our Global Gateway Strategy. Implementing Global Gateway brings together the European Union, its 27 Member States and their development financing institutions with the European private sector to leverage investments in renewable energy, digital connectivity and maritime logistics. Investing in key infrastructure supports our partners in further improving the business environment, developing skills to strengthen export capacity and building more resilient and sustainable economies. We are therefore delighted that Caribbean Export has been nominated as the Caribbean’ focal point for the European Enterprise Network, a platform that will greatly facilitate business cooperation, knowledge exchange and strategic partnerships between European and Caribbean companies. I commend the Caribbean Export Development Agency for its unwavering dedication to enhancing competitiveness and promoting innovation among small businesses in the Caribbean and we are proud to be able to work hand-in-hand to further the export of Caribbean goods and services to the European market.

Her Excellency Ambassador Fiona Ramsey Head of Delegation, Delegation of the European Union to Barbados, the Eastern Caribbean States and the OECS

“The EU’s partnership with Caribbean Export is anchored by our joint commitment to drive private sector innovation, strengthen business performance, and advance sustainable economic development in the Caribbean.”

8 | CARIBBEAN EXPORT ANNUAL RESULTS REPORT 2025