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The Saint Lucia Chamber of Commerce, Industry and Agriculture’s recent Commerce & Cocktails networking event was a resounding success, bringing together members of the business community for an evening of engagement, relationship-building, and new opportunities.
Following the Chamber’s successful Customs Luncheon held earlier that afternoon, many attendees continued the conversation at Commerce & Cocktails, creating a vibrant atmosphere of networking and collaboration. Business owners, entrepreneurs, professionals, and prospective members had the opportunity to connect, exchange ideas, and learn more about the benefits of Chamber membership.
A highlight of the evening was an interactive Networking Bingo activity, designed to encourage participants to engage with others throughout the room. The activity sparked lively conversations, fostered new connections, and provided attendees with the chance to win exciting prizes.
The Chamber extends sincere appreciation to Heineken Saint Lucia, Tropical Shipping, Renwick & Company Limited, ACADO, Massy Stores Saint Lucia, and Peter & Company Auto for their generous sponsorship and support. Their contributions played a significant role in the success of the event and the memorable experience enjoyed by attendees.
The Chamber also thanks everyone who attended and contributed to making the evening a success. Events such as Commerce & Cocktails continue to strengthen relationships within the business community and create valuable opportunities for collaboration and growth.
We look forward to welcoming members and guests to future Chamber events.
The Saint Lucia Chamber of Commerce, Industry and Agriculture recently hosted an Executive Luncheon featuring Comptroller of Customs & Excise, Mr. Sherman Emmanuel, who provided members of the business community with an update on the Department’s ongoing modernization and digital transformation agenda.
Held at The Harbor Club on June 11, 2026, the luncheon brought together importers, exporters, customs brokers, and other stakeholders for an informative discussion on customs reform initiatives aimed at improving trade facilitation, enhancing operational efficiency, and strengthening collaboration between Customs and the private sector.
In his remarks, Mr. Emmanuel emphasized the Department’s commitment to balancing trade facilitation with revenue collection and border security. He noted that extensive consultations with the trading community informed the Department’s strategic plan and reinforced the importance of developing solutions through partnership with the private sector.
A key area of focus was the implementation of a modern Risk Management Framework, which will allow Customs to make more data-driven decisions by leveraging intelligence and analytics. The initiative is expected to significantly reduce unnecessary inspections and expedite clearance processes for compliant traders and travelers, while allowing Customs to concentrate resources on higher-risk transactions.
Attendees also received updates on several digitalization projects designed to simplify customs procedures and improve service delivery. These include the Online Customs Payment Platform, which enables users to make payments electronically, receive real-time notifications, and reduce reliance on manual, paper-based processes.
The Department highlighted ongoing efforts to streamline importer registration through an online application process, eliminating the need for multiple in-person visits and reducing administrative burdens for businesses. Plans include greater integration between government agencies to create a more seamless registration experience.
Another significant development discussed was the Integrated Cargo Release System, which is currently being piloted. The system aims to digitize and automate cargo release procedures, replacing traditional paper-based workflows with a unified digital platform that provides real-time visibility and communication among shipping agents, customs officials, brokers, and importers. The initiative is expected to reduce cargo release times, increase transparency, and enhance overall efficiency throughout the supply chain.
Participants also learned about Customs’ ongoing efforts to modernize the administration of concessions. Since March 2026, approximately 50 percent of the concession approval process has been transitioned to a digital framework, allowing brokers and importers to submit documentation electronically and track approvals more efficiently. The long-term objective is to establish a fully integrated digital system that enables stakeholders to complete the entire process online, from application to final approval.
The luncheon provided members with a valuable opportunity to engage directly with Customs officials, ask questions, share experiences, and provide feedback on challenges affecting trade and cargo clearance. The open dialogue underscored the importance of continued collaboration between Customs and the private sector in creating a more efficient, transparent, and competitive trading environment.
The marketing and business community of Saint Lucia has another reason to celebrate as Agnes Francis has been awarded the prestigious designation of Fellow of the Chartered Institute of Marketing (FCIM). The highest level of professional recognition conferred by the globally respected organization.
This distinguished honour reflects more than two decades of leadership, innovation, and commitment to advancing marketing excellence across Saint Lucia and the wider Caribbean. Throughout her accomplished career, Francis has consistently demonstrated a passion for strategic growth, brand development, tourism advancement, and professional excellence.
A Fellow of the Chartered Institute of Marketing is recognized for making an outstanding contribution to the marketing profession while demonstrating exceptional leadership and influence. Through this achievement, Francis joins an elite international network of marketing leaders who have helped shape industry standards and drive meaningful change within their respective markets.
Ms. Francis is the Managing Director of Accela Marketing, an award-winning company with a physical presence in all OECS islands and affiliates in the other Caribbean islands, providing advertising, public relations, branding, market research, digital marketing, event management and strategic communications services to public and private sector organizations throughout the Caribbean and internationally. She also leads a business consultancy firm specializing in tourism, marketing, and management services.
Her extensive professional experience includes serving as Saint Lucia's first female Director of Tourism, where she was responsible for the management and coordination of the island's tourism marketing, public relations, and product development initiatives. From July 2016 to July 2018, she also served as Chairperson of the Board of Directors of the Saint Lucia Tourist Board, guiding its successful transition to the Saint Lucia Tourism Authority. She was also tasked as Chairperson and led the establishment of the Events Company of Saint Lucia.
Beyond her professional accomplishments, Francis has made significant contributions to national and regional development through her service on numerous statutory and private sector boards, including the Saint Lucia Chamber of Commerce, the Saint Lucia Tourist Board, Sports Saint Lucia Inc., the Saint Lucia Hospitality and Tourism Association, and Saint Lucia's investment promotion agency, where she served as Chairperson.
Her commitment to professional development, ethical marketing practices, regional collaboration, and mentorship has helped inspire and guide a new generation of Caribbean marketing professionals. She is also an internationally Certified Management Consultant (CMC), a Project Management Professional (PMP), and holds a bachelor’s degree in management studies and a master’s degree in Tourism Planning and Development. In addition, she is proficient in both Spanish and French.
As Saint Lucia continues to strengthen its position in regional and international markets, Francis' achievement serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of visionary leadership, lifelong learning, and the transformative impact of strategic marketing.
The Secretariat extends heartfelt congratulations to Agnes Francis, FCIM, on this remarkable accomplishment and wishes her continued success as she continues to elevate the marketing profession and inspire excellence throughout the Caribbean.
The Saint Lucia Chamber of Commerce, Industry and Agriculture successfully hosted a member engagement session with St. Lucia Electricity Services Ltd. (LUCELEC) on June 3, 2026, providing Chamber members with an opportunity to gain a deeper understanding of the recent increase in the electricity fuel surcharge and its implications for businesses across Saint Lucia.
Held at the Chamber Secretariat in Bois D’Orange, the session attracted strong participation from members representing a wide cross-section of the private sector. The engagement was organized in response to concerns raised by businesses regarding escalating electricity costs and the impact of rising energy expenses on operational efficiency, competitiveness, and overall cost of doing business.
During the session, LUCELEC representatives provided a detailed overview of the fuel surcharge mechanism, explaining how the surcharge is calculated, the factors that influence fluctuations in fuel prices, and the relationship between global energy markets and local electricity costs. Participants also had the opportunity to ask questions, share concerns, and engage in constructive dialogue regarding current and future energy challenges facing the business community.
LUCELEC reminded the Business Community that the Electricity Surcharge had been negative over the last two years because global fuel prices had been declining. The recent spike in oil prices has meant that the surcharge has now become positive, and thus the spike in the surcharge. The uncertainty and instability in the Middle East were the major contributing factors.
The Meeting highlighted the need for decisive action by Government to introduce the new Electricity Supply Act and accompanying regulations, which are expected to help usher in the greater use of renewable energy and thus less dependence on fossil fuel.
The Chamber welcomed LUCELEC’s continued commitment to transparency and stakeholder engagement, noting that LUCELEC has consistently demonstrated its willingness to engage with the private sector on issues of national importance. Over the years, the company has participated in several Chamber-hosted discussions, including consultations on renewable energy development, electricity sector reform, and the Draft Electricity Supplies Bill.
The Chamber extends its sincere thanks to LUCELEC and all members who participated in the discussion and contributed to a productive exchange of ideas.
Bio
I currently serve as the General Manager of Caribbean Metals Limited, building on more than 15 years of senior operational leadership across manufacturing, retail, legal practice management, and healthcare engineering. My career has been shaped by a commitment to operational excellence, people-centered leadership, and strengthening the systems that help businesses grow sustainably. I have also supported through private consultancy local, regional, and international organizations, in the areas of quality, food safety and environmental management systems development; resource efficiency and circular production, capacity building and strategic operational transformation.
What the Chamber Means to Me
The Chamber represents the collective will of the private sector to influence the direction of our economy with intention and integrity. I therefore see serving on the Board as an opportunity to ensure that the realities of businesses, large and small are reflected in the policies, advocacy, and partnerships that shape our national development.
It matters because the Chamber is one of the few spaces where we can bridge perspectives, align priorities, and champion a business environment that is competitive, resilient, and future-ready. I believe deeply in strengthening the backbone of our economy, in particular our SMEs by advocating for systems, standards, and support structures that allow them not only to survive but to scale.
Role as a Board Member
As a Board member, I bring an operational and systems-thinking lens to the Chamber’s strategic direction. My contribution focuses on strengthening governance, improving the clarity and consistency of our advocacy, and ensuring that our initiatives translate into measurable value for members. I am intentional about amplifying the voices of businesses that are often underrepresented, especially those navigating growth without the benefit of strong internal systems.
I see my role as helping the Chamber remain relevant, data-driven, and responsive to the evolving needs of the private sector. Whether through policy review, strategic planning, or supporting capacity-building initiatives, I aim to help shape a Chamber that is inclusive, future-focused, and positioned to lead with both courage and competence.
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Please be advised that the Social Media Marketing Training Programme has been postponed until further notice.
We appreciate your interest and understanding as we work to finalize a new schedule. Individuals who are interested in participating are still encouraged to register, as all registered participants will receive priority notification once the new dates are confirmed.
We look forward to bringing you this valuable training opportunity and will share further updates as soon as they become available.
Look Out: June & July
Chamber Facilitates Stakeholder Consultation on Sir Julian R. Hunte Highway Improvement Project
TheSaint Lucia Chamber of Commerce, Industry and Agriculture recently facilitateda stakeholder engagement session with representatives of the Government ofSaint Lucia, the Ministry of Infrastructure, Ports, Transport, PhysicalDevelopment and Urban Renewal (MIPTPDUR), and Beston Consulting Limited, theengineering consultants responsible for the design of the proposed Sir JulianR. Hunte Highway and Secondary Roads Improvement Project.
The Saint Lucia Chamber of Commerce, Industry and Agriculture recently facilitated a stakeholder engagement session with representatives of the Government of Saint Lucia, the Ministry of Infrastructure, Ports, Transport, Physical Development and Urban Renewal (MIPTPDUR), and Beston Consulting Limited, the engineering consultants responsible for the design of the proposed Sir Julian R. Hunte Highway and Secondary Roads Improvement Project.
The virtual consultation formed part of a broader stakeholder engagement process aimed at gathering valuable input from the private sector and other road users to inform the ongoing conceptual and detailed design of the project extending from Choc Bridge to the Gros Islet Intersection.
During the discussion, participants highlighted several critical issues affecting businesses, commuters, and residents who utilize the highway daily. A major focus of the engagement was traffic flow and congestion along the corridor, particularly during peak hours. Stakeholders shared concerns regarding traffic bottlenecks, access to commercial establishments, and the need for improved traffic management solutions to support infrastructure improvements and economic activity while enhancing the commuter experience.
The proposed introduction of roundabouts at strategic locations generated significant discussion, with participants examining their potential to improve traffic circulation, reduce delays, and enhance road safety. Members also emphasized the importance of ensuring that any traffic management interventions are carefully designed to accommodate both commercial and public transportation needs.
Pedestrian safety emerged as another key priority during the consultation. The Meeting was advised of enhanced pedestrian infrastructure, including the installation of pedestrian overpasses (walkovers), improved crossings, sidewalks, and better public illumination. Participants noted that the highway serves not only motorists but also students, workers, and community residents who regularly cross the roadway, often under challenging and potentially unsafe conditions.
The Consultants also pointed out that the designs included drainage measures, accessibility for persons with disabilities, accommodation for public transportation stops, roadside economic activity, and the overall resilience of the road network to climate-related events. Stakeholders welcomed those developments.
The Consultants encouraged the private sector to critically consider the impact of the project and the proposed designs on their businesses and share those with them, as the intention was to improve the usefulness and contribution of this piece of infrastructure to both citizens and businesses.
The Chamber welcomed the opportunity for members to engage directly with the consultants and requested that information be shared with them so they could make the plans available to members of the wider business community. It was suggested that a video or animation of the road design be made available for public consumption, a suggestion that was well received. Suggestions for regular and effective communication between the project team and the business community were discussed with the Chamber, indicating its preparedness to act as a focal point for communication if needs be.
Feedback and input from stakeholders such as the Chamber will contribute to the refinement of the project's detailed designs, Environmental and Social Impact Assessment (ESIA), Climate Risk and Vulnerability Assessment (CRVA), and associated management plans as the project advances.
Castries, Saint Lucia – June 5, 2026 – The St. Lucia Chamber of Commerce, Industry and Agriculture, in collaboration with the Ministry of Health, Wellness and Elderly Affairs, successfully hosted a virtual information session on Friday, June 5, 2026, to provide members of the business community with important updates on Hantavirus and Ebola Virus Disease.
The session, held via Zoom, brought together Chamber members and representatives from the Ministry of Health to discuss current global and regional health developments, risk factors, and recommended preventive measures related to both diseases. Participants were provided with valuable information designed to enhance awareness and preparedness within workplaces and the wider community.
Health officials emphasized the importance of maintaining proper sanitation practices, strengthening workplace health protocols, and remaining vigilant regarding public health advisories. The presentation also highlighted the role businesses can play in supporting national health preparedness efforts through employee education and adherence to established health guidelines.
The interactive discussion allowed participants to engage directly with Ministry representatives, seek clarification on health concerns, and gain a better understanding of the measures in place to safeguard public health.
The St. Lucia Chamber of Commerce extends its sincere appreciation to the Ministry of Health, Wellness and Elderly Affairs for facilitating this timely and informative presentation. The Chamber remains committed to providing its members with access to relevant information and resources that support business continuity, employee well-being, and national resilience.
For additional information on public health advisories and preventive measures, members are encouraged to consult official communications from the Ministry of Health.
SLYBT launches Impact 758Youth Entrepreneurial Program (Impact 758) in Saint Lucia
Saint Lucia Youth Business Trust (SLYBT) is proud to launch the Impact 758 Youth Entrepreneurial Program (Impact 758), an incubation program designed to support marginalized individuals (18-35) and those from vulnerable communities, including existing entrepreneurs seeking formalized instruction, in Saint Lucia.
The program will provide selected entrepreneurs with mentorship, training, ecosystem connections, and practical support to help strengthen innovative ventures and accelerate business growth, and foster sustainable livelihoods.
Participants will benefit from:
● Capacity-building workshops:Deep-dives into technical entrepreneurship and essential life skills.
● Expert mentorship: Access to a supportive network of business professionals and tailored aftercare.
● Networking and collaboration opportunities: Integrations with The St. Lucia Chamber of Commerce, Industry and Agriculture, AdVizze Inc., the St. Lucia Social Development Fund (SSDF), and November GEW events.
● Access to entrepreneurial ecosystem support: Pathways to secure startup loans and grants.
Application deadline: Wednesday, July 1 2026
Learn more and apply: https://incubation.bridgeforbillions.org/signup?organization=231&program=642
This program is part of Conecta Caribbean, an initiative of the CARIBEquity Facility (co-funded by IDB Lab and the European Union), supporting stronger, more connected entrepreneurial ecosystems across the Caribbean.
Hurricane Season Is Upon Us!
HurricaneSeason is upon us. Are you prepared? Have you taken the necessary precautions?Is your insurance up to date? Have you revisited your Hurricane PreparednessPlan? What about Your Business Continuity Plan? Are your staff familiar withit? Do they remember their roles?
Nowis a good time as ever to make sure your entire team is familiar and know whattheir roles are. Remember, having a Business Continuity Plan is not sufficient;it needs to be reviewed regularly and even tested. Have you revisited yourBusiness Continuity Plan? Do you have one? If you don't, the Chamber suggeststhat you seriously consider developing one for your business.
BusinessContinuity is not just about hurricane preparedness; it is about you doing allyou can to ensure that in the event of any business disruption or interruption,disaster, natural or manmade, you have a clear, well-thought-out plan as to howyou will recommence your operations in the shortest possible time. Insurance isa mitigating measure, yet thinking through and putting in place actions andapproaches that make your business more resilient to all types of likely orpossible disruptions is extremely useful.
TheChamber reminds you to Complete Our Business Continuity Plan/Disaster RecoveryPlan Checklist to help. Also, remember the Chamber is offering a BusinessContinuity Plan (BCP) Workshop that will help your firm develop a draftBusiness Continuity Plan. The Facilitator, Mr. Andrew George, is also preparedto conduct on-site visits to your main place of business to help refine yourBCP and help validate and review the appropriateness of the BCP. A proper BCPmay also be useful in negotiating better rates with your insurer.