July 28, 2025

Africa–Caribbean trade and investment forum opens in Grenada

The African Export-Import Bank (Afreximbank), in collaboration with the Government of Grenada, will host the Fourth Annual AfriCaribbean Trade and Investment Forum (ACTIF2025) at the Radisson Convention Centre in St. George’s this week. 

The high-level gathering will bring together government leaders, investors and innovators from Africa and the Caribbean to deepen commercial ties, identify new opportunities, and promote increased trade and investment flows between the two regions.

ACTIF2025 will focus on creating a business case for an Africa–Caribbean Free Trade Area, enhancing the Africa-Caribbean Business Council, unlocking creative economy potential, and expanding air and sea connectivity. 

Organizers say the forum will also spotlight matchmaking opportunities, cultural exchanges, and strategies for leveraging market intelligence to drive growth and development across both regions. Full details are available at actif2025.afreximbankevents.com.

Caribbean carrier unveils new brand identity

LIAT (2020) Ltd. has introduced its new commercial name and brand identity: Liat Air — a significant step forward in its transformation 

journey. 

While the legal name LIAT (2020) Ltd. remains unchanged, the airline will now operate publicly and commercially as Liat Air, signaling a renewed commitment to regional connectivity and operational excellence.

LIAT CEO Hafsah Abdulsalam commented: “The name ‘LIAT’ carries deep historical and emotional significance across the Caribbean. However, as we grow and expand into new territories, we recognize the importance of making our purpose unmistakably clear. The name ‘Liat Air’ does exactly that — it honors and reinforces our legacy while positioning us confidently in the global aviation space.” 

What’s Changing:

• New brand name: Liat Air

• Revitalized logo and visual identity

What’s Staying the Same:

• Legal name: LIAT (2020) Ltd.

• Ownership and management structure

• Commitment to safety, reliable regional service and service excellence

Deadline approaching for early registration to FCCA cruise conference

Industry stakeholders have until August 30 to take advantage of early registration rates for the 2025 FCCA Cruise Conference and Trade Show, set for October 21-24 in San Juan, Puerto Rico. 

Early sign-up helps ensure access to one-on-one meetings with top cruise executives — a signature feature of the region’s leading cruise industry event.

Organized by the Florida-Caribbean Cruise Association (FCCA), the annual conference brings together cruise line decision-makers, tourism and port stakeholders, and suppliers to foster strategic partnerships and promote growth across the Caribbean and Latin America. 

Registration is open at www.FCCAConference.com.

Photo Flashback: Heartfelt CMEx moments

Flashback to the 2023 Caribbean Media Exchange (CMEx) Leadership Awards & Fundraiser — A memorable moment as CMEx honorees, broadcaster and entrepreneur Pat Montague and tourism and marketing professional Beverly Nicholson-Doty embrace during the celebration. The CMEx Awards and Fundraiser returns to Loews Coral Gables on Sunday, December 7. Stay tuned for more details.

Quotable Caribbean

“We are thrilled with this latest development by Caribbean Airlines, which reinforces the strong partnership between Dominica and the airline. The rapid reinstatement of San Juan service and increased frequency via Trinidad are strategic improvements that respond directly to the needs of travelers, tour operators, and Dominican nationals abroad. This will help drive visitor arrivals, boost tourism spending, and support our broader air access goals as we prepare to transition to the international airport.” — Denise Charles-Pemberton, Minister of Tourism, Dominica

Proverbially West Indian

“Never See, Come See.” 

In Caribbean culture, “never see, come see” refers to someone who reacts with wide-eyed amazement or overwhelming excitement when experiencing something new for the first time. It captures the sense of wonder or awe that sometimes leads to over-the-top reactions, often highlighting the contrast between inexperience and exposure. It’s a colorful way of describing moments when novelty sparks intense curiosity or delight.

Medical Moment

World Patient Safety Day is observed annually on September 17. This year’s theme, “Safe care for every newborn and every child,” aims to raise awareness and reduce the risks and harm this vulnerable group faces from unsafe care. The objectives include mobilizing communities to implement safety strategies, empowering patients, caregivers and children, and advocating for research focused on safer care practices. National campaigns and technical activities are planned, including the illumination of iconic landmarks and public spaces in orange.

Marketplace Excellence Corporation (MPE) is a global public relations, marketing and media company.