CE- Annual Results Report 2023 FINAL

MESSAGE FROM THE CHAIRPERSON OF THE BOARD

Dr. Lynette Holder Chairperson of the Board of Directors Caribbean Export Development Agency

“As we reflect on the accomplishments of the past year, Caribbean Export remains committed to driving forward initiatives that promote growth, innovation, and sustainability across the Caribbean region.”

testament to the Caribbean’s readiness and potential for sustainable economic development. Moreover, our commitment to fostering regional integration and sustainable development was exemplified through the successful completion of the Haiti-Dominican Republic Binational Programme. Despite the conclusion of this programme, Caribbean Export remains dedicated to supporting the Haitian private sector and contributing to the sustainable development of the country amidst prevailing challenges. We are pleased to continue to expand our partnership network implementing programmes to further bolster our collective efforts in supporting the region’s private sector, in tandem with our longstanding collaboration with the European Union. As we reflect on the accomplishments of the past year, Caribbean Export remains committed to driving forward initiatives that promote growth, innovation, and sustainability across the Caribbean region. We are confident that through collaborative efforts and strategic initiatives, we can navigate the challenges ahead and pave the way for a prosperous future for all stakeholders.

On behalf of the Board of Directors, I would like to congratulate the management and staff of Caribbean Export for producing this 2023 Annual Results Report. As we reflect on the economic challenges of the past years, it becomes increasingly evident that the private sector plays a pivotal role in not only driving recovery but also in fostering resilience and sustainable growth within our economies. In line with this vision, Caribbean Export has remained steadfast in its commitment to supporting the Region’s private sector including Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) and facilitating job creation through the successful implementation of the 11th European Development Fund - Regional Private Sector Development Programme. With a commendable 93% programme implementation rate, this initiative has been instrumental in empowering businesses across the region to surmount growth constraints and thrive in a competitive global landscape. Furthermore, the culmination of flagship initiatives pioneered by Caribbean Export since 2021 including the 2nd Caribbean Investment Forum in The Bahamas in October 2023, underscores the region’s attractiveness for investment across diverse sectors including technology, agriculture, renewable energy, and innovation. This forum, which attracted over 547 business delegates, served as a

6 | CREATING A BOLD NEW CARIBBEAN | RESULTS REPORT 2023