Honourable E.P. Chet Greene says stronger Africa-CARICOM economic ties are now urgent.
He made the remarks during the AfriCaribbean Private Sector Webinar on January 20, 2026.

The webinar launched a four-part series on trade and investment opportunities.
It brought together over 200 business leaders, ministers, and development institutions.

Greene emphasized that global trade changes demand swift action.
Rising protectionism, geopolitical uncertainty, and supply-chain disruptions threaten CARICOM economies.

He added that micro, small, and medium enterprises dominate the regional business landscape.
Therefore, economic resilience requires stronger commercial engagement with Africa.

According to a CPSO study, Africa Union exports to CARICOM could surpass US$1 billion.
This represents a major opportunity to diversify CARICOM supply chains.

Greene noted that political leadership sets the framework, but business drives progress.
Private sector involvement is essential for innovation, trade growth, and job creation.

CPSO CEO Dr. Patrick Antoine highlighted the study’s data-driven findings.
At least 13 Africa Union countries can competitively supply CARICOM imports above US$58 million.

Additionally, 579 product lines were identified as competitively priced.
On average, CARICOM can source each product from four different Africa Union countries.

Antoine stressed that CARICOM firms must act quickly.
They need to diversify trade routes to respond to global market shifts.

Practical lessons were shared by Anthony Ali of Goddard Enterprises.
He encouraged local production partnerships and flexible business models to enter Africa Union markets.

Other webinar speakers included Pamela Coke-Hamilton, Okechukwu Ihejirika, and Dr. Amany Asfour.
They highlighted the importance of data-driven collaboration and business-to-business linkages.

The webinar series will continue with sessions on agribusiness, fashion, wellness, and medical technologies.
These sessions aim to unlock concrete trade and investment opportunities across both regions.

Ultimately, Greene and CPSO leaders agreed that private sector leadership will shape the next phase.
Strong Africa-CARICOM ties could boost trade, create jobs, and strengthen regional resilience.

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