Primed for Success Volume 3

Chairman’s Message

As the Chairman of the Board of the Caribbean Export Development Agency (Caribbean Export), I would like to thank the European Union (EU) for providing the 10th European Development Fund (EDF) enabling Caribbean Export to execute the Regional Private Sector Development Programme (RPSDP). Caribbean Export recognises the challenges faced by private sector firms in the CARIFORUM region, as it relates to growth in the current world economy, and as a result the Agency aims to design and facilitate training, certification, funding and networking opportunities, which have served to better prepare our regional beneficiaries to export their products or services. More-over, the Agency understands that this suite of services is essential for sustainable growth and consequently achieving the goal of exporting brands on an international level. The measures are intended to increase productivity and exposure regionally and internationally, while enabling participating companies to access new markets and achieve quality standard certifications. The Management and Staff of Caribbean Export continue to work tirelessly to effectively implement a range of work programme activities, with the aim of enhancing the capacity of CARIFORUM private sector firms involved in Agro-processing, Creative Industries, Health and Wellness, Information and Communication Technology, Manufacturing, Professional Services, Renewable Energy, and Tourism. Additionally, the Agency continually inspires and challenges leaders in the private sector to find innovative ways to better alignment of business and societal strategies. This past year, Caribbean Export has supported a variety of regional firms, as they sought to harness the opportunities that abound in regional and international export. In addition, we have stived to increase their awareness of the Economic Partnership Agreement (EPA) between the EU and CARIFORUM, which provides technical assistance and access to 27 European markets, amongst other provisions. On behalf of the Board Members I wish to express our sincere gratitude to the EU, CARIFORUM Directorate, CARICOM Secretariat, regional business support organisations, and other relevant stakeholders who have partnered with Caribbean Export to increase the export potential and capabilities of regional companies. It is with great pleasure that we present the third edition of Primed for Success, and may it prove to be an inspirational and enjoyable read.

Christopher Lewis Chairman of the Board The Caribbean Export Development Agency

Primed for Success / Vol. 3 / 2014-2015

www.carib-export.com

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