The St. Lucia Chamber of Commerce, Industry and Agriculture successfully convened its 2026 MSME Day Ecosystem Forum, bringing together representatives from government ministries, financial institutions, business support organisations, academia and the private sector to identify practical solutions for strengthening St. Lucia's Micro, Small and Medium Enterprise (MSME) ecosystem.
The highly interactive forum moved beyond discussion to action, with participants working collaboratively to identify the most pressing challenges facing entrepreneurs and agree on priority actions for implementation over the next twelve months.
Throughout the session, participants acknowledged that while numerous organisations provide valuable support to MSMEs, greater coordination and collaboration are needed to maximize impact. Common themes emerging from the working groups included improving communication among support agencies, increasing the visibility and accessibility of available services, streamlining the customer journey for entrepreneurs, and creating stronger mechanisms for information sharing.
Among the key priorities identified were:
Participants also highlighted opportunities to improve the ease of doing business by addressing issues relating to banking requirements, record keeping, land registry processes, tax and National Insurance clearances, and access to business financing.
Importantly, the forum concluded with participating organisations expressing their willingness to move from recommendations to implementation by committing to collaborate on future initiatives within their respective areas of expertise. Commitments included supporting the development of the proposed ecosystem hub, sharing information on business support programmes, collaborating on entrepreneur training and skills development, improving access to financing information, and contributing to a more coordinated national support system for MSMEs.
Speaking during the forum, facilitators emphasized that sustainable growth for the MSME sector depends on organisations working together rather than in isolation, creating a seamless support network that allows entrepreneurs to access the right services at the right time.
The Chamber reaffirmed its commitment to serving as a convener of the ecosystem by facilitating continued dialogue among stakeholders and advancing the implementation of the forum's priority actions.
The outcomes of the forum will inform a collaborative roadmap aimed at strengthening Saint Lucia's entrepreneurial ecosystem, improving service delivery and creating a more enabling environment for MSMEs to start, grow and thrive.
Chamber Members Connect at Harbor Club's Wine Down & Connect
The Saint Lucia Chamber of Commerce, Industry and Agriculture was pleased to have members participate in Wine Down & Connect, hosted by Harbor Club on Thursday, June 26, 2026.
The evening provided an excellent opportunity for members to network, build new business relationships, and engage in meaningful conversations in a relaxed setting. We extend our sincere thanks to Harbor Club for generously offering complimentary spaces to Chamber members, making the event even more accessible.
One of the highlights of the evening was the valuable feedback shared by members on the Chamber's work and priorities. Discussions centred on how the Chamber can continue to strengthen its advocacy, expand opportunities for members, and deliver programmes that respond to the evolving needs of the business community. The insights and suggestions received will help inform future initiatives and reinforce our commitment to serving our members effectively.
We extend our heartfelt appreciation to everyone who attended and helped make the event a success. Your participation, thoughtful contributions, and continued engagement are what make our Chamber community stronger.
We look forward to creating more opportunities for members to connect, collaborate, and grow together.
Castries, Saint Lucia – July 1, 2026 – The Saint Lucia Chamber of Commerce, Industry and Agriculture participated in a virtual meeting with representatives of the International Monetary Fund (IMF) as part of the IMF's 2026 Annual Staff Visit to Saint Lucia. The engagement formed part of the IMF's consultations with key stakeholders to assess the country's economic developments, outlook, and policy priorities.
Representing a cross-section of the private sector, Chamber members provided candid insights into the current business climate, highlighting both opportunities and challenges affecting economic growth and competitiveness.
A significant portion of the discussion focused on the tourism sector, where members noted that while the industry continues to recover, several segments remain under pressure. Hoteliers reported contracting source markets, particularly due to a decline in visitor arrivals from the United Kingdom, while overall tourism performance has yet to surpass 2019 pre-pandemic levels. Members also pointed to declining activity within the yachting sector, underscoring the need for targeted strategies to strengthen this important niche market.
Labour availability also emerged as a key concern. Members highlighted persistent shortages of skilled and technical workers across several industries, noting that workforce constraints continue to limit business expansion and service delivery. The Chamber emphasized the need for a comprehensive migration policy that could encourage the return of skilled members of the Saint Lucian diaspora while also facilitating the recruitment of qualified regional labour where necessary. Participants further stressed the importance of reviewing the Tourism Development Act to ensure that it remains responsive to the evolving needs of the sector and supports future investment.
The discussion also examined the impact of global economic developments on local businesses. Chamber members noted that higher international oil prices have contributed to increased electricity and utility costs, placing additional financial pressure on businesses and affecting profitability.
Members further discussed the importance of expanding renewable energy opportunities to improve energy security and reduce operating costs over the long term. While recognizing ongoing efforts in the energy transition, participants highlighted existing regulatory limitations and emphasized the need for policies that encourage greater private sector participation in renewable energy investment, particularly in the context of increasing global energy prices and climate-related vulnerabilities.
The Chamber welcomed the opportunity to engage directly with the IMF team and reaffirmed its commitment to constructive dialogue on policies that strengthen Saint Lucia's economic resilience, improve the investment climate, and support sustainable private sector growth.
The IMF Staff Visit forms part of the Fund's ongoing engagement with Saint Lucia and contributes to its assessment of the country's macroeconomic conditions and future economic prospects.
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Chamber Provides Business Community Input on Labour Act Review
Castries, Saint Lucia (July 1, 2026) – The Saint Lucia Chamber of Commerce, Industry and Agriculture participated in a stakeholder consultation on Wednesday, July 1, 2026, to contribute the private sector's perspective to the ongoing review of Saint Lucia's Labour Act. The consultation, facilitated by A-Z Information (JA) Limited on behalf of the Department of Labour, formed part of a broader legislative review aimed at ensuring the country's labour framework remains responsive to the evolving needs of employers and employees.
Representatives from a wide cross-section of the business community shared practical experiences with the current legislation, identifying provisions that function effectively while highlighting areas requiring greater clarity and modernization.
Among the principal issues raised were the administration of sick leave, employee attendance, and job abandonment. Members noted that employers continue to experience uncertainty surrounding medical certification requirements, repeated absenteeism, and the interpretation of job abandonment provisions. Greater legislative clarity, they argued, would improve consistency and reduce operational challenges for businesses.
Participants also discussed the application of natural justice in disciplinary matters, particularly in cases involving serious misconduct. While reaffirming the importance of due process, members recommended clearer procedures that balance employee rights with the need for employers to resolve disciplinary matters in a timely and practical manner.
The consultation also explored how the Labour Act can better reflect the realities of today's workplace. Chamber members encouraged the inclusion of provisions addressing remote and flexible work arrangements, electronic communication, social media, and the increasing use of artificial intelligence in business operations. Employers noted that while many organizations have adopted flexible working policies, the current legislation provides limited guidance for these evolving workplace practices.
Additional recommendations focused on clarifying vacation leave entitlements for temporary employees, reviewing redundancy payment calculations, considering sector-specific minimum wage provisions where appropriate, and expanding family leave provisions to include paternity, adoption, and foster care leave. Participants also encouraged a legislative framework that better accommodates emerging forms of employment, including knowledge workers and the gig economy.
The Chamber welcomed the opportunity to contribute to the review process and reaffirmed its commitment to working collaboratively with the Government, the Department of Labour, employers, employees, and A-Z Information (JA) Limited to develop a modern labour framework that supports productivity, competitiveness, and sustainable economic growth.
The Saint Lucia Chamber of Commerce believes that a modernized Labour Act will enhance labour market efficiency, improve the ease of doing business, and position Saint Lucia to meet the changing demands of a dynamic economy.
The St.Lucia Chamber of Commerce, Industry and Agriculture was pleased to participate in a strategic meeting convened by the Small Business Development Centre (SBDC) on 29 June 2026.
The meeting focused on strengthening the SBDC's support framework for micro, small and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs), with discussions centered on adopting best practices, including elements of Jamaica's SBDC model, to enhance service delivery over the next 18 months.
Key proposals included the establishment of specialized sub-committees to oversee priority areas such as business advisory services, capacity building and training, access to finance, market access, innovation and incubation, and MSME ecosystem development through stronger partnerships.
The SBDC also outlined several proposed programmes aimed at supporting entrepreneurs, including internship, youth membership, consultancy, referral, mentorship and self-paced e-learning initiatives.
Representing the Chamber, Riquel St.Marthe, Programme Officer and Armani Modeste , Membership Development Intern , participated in the discussions and reaffirmed the Chamber's commitment to collaborating with key stakeholders to strengthen the local business environment and expand opportunities for St. Lucia's MSMEs.
The Chamber looks forward to continued engagement with the SBDC and other partners in advancing initiatives that foster entrepreneurship, innovation and sustainable business growth in St.Lucia.
Upcoming Events
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Please be advised that the Leading with Emotional Intelligence training programme has been postponed until further notice.
We appreciate your interest and understanding as we finalize a new schedule. Individuals who wish to participate are still encouraged to register, as all registered participants will receive priority notification once the new dates are confirmed.
We look forward to offering this valuable professional development opportunity and will share further updates as soon as they become available.
Upcoming Training Program
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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.
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.
Elevate – Fueling Growth and Resilience of Small Business Become a Sponsor
Castries, Saint Lucia – July 6, 2026 - The Department of Commerce is pleased to announce that applications are now open for exhibitors wishing to participate in the 19th Annual Saint Lucia–Taiwan Partnership Trade Show, scheduled to take place from November 6–8, 2026, at the Pavilion on the Ramp, Rodney Bay.
Recognized as one of Saint Lucia’s premier business exhibitions, the Trade Show continues to serve as a dynamic platform for local entrepreneurs, manufacturers, agro-processors, artisans, service providers, and other businesses to showcase their products and services alongside cutting-edge products, technologies, and innovations from the Republic of China (Taiwan).
The event fosters collaboration, knowledge exchange, and business partnerships while creating opportunities for exhibitors to expand their reach and explore new markets. Held under the theme, “From Local to Global: Innovate Today, Sustain Tomorrow,”; this year’s Trade Show challenges businesses to think beyond the domestic market and strategically position themselves for regional and international growth through innovation, sustainability, and competitiveness.
The event will also highlight the importance of adopting modern technologies and sustainable business practices to enhance productivity, resilience, and long-term success. The Trade Show offers exhibitors an excellent opportunity to increase brand visibility, introduce new products and services, generate sales, engage directly with consumers, network with fellow entrepreneurs, and establish valuable business relationships with local, regional, and international stakeholders.
The Department of Commerce invites businesses from all sectors to apply for exhibition space. While applications are welcomed from all eligible businesses, priority consideration will be given to enterprises that demonstrate a strong commitment to innovation, sustainable business practices, product development, value addition, and the integration of technology into their operations.
Application forms may be collected from and submitted to any of the following locations:
-Department of Commerce – 5th Floor, Conway Business Centre, Waterfront, Castries
-Consumer Affairs Department – Corner of Micoud and Coral Streets, Castries
-Department of Commerce (Southern Office) – 3rd Floor, Uptown Business Centre, New
Dock Road, Vieux Fort
Application forms may also be downloaded from the Department’s website at commerce.gov.lc and submitted electronically to candi@govt.lc. The deadline for the submission of applications is Wednesday, August 12, 2026. All applications will be reviewed by the Department of Commerce, and successful applicants will be notified of their participation on or before Friday, September 4, 2026.
For additional information, please contact the Department of Commerce by email at candi@govt.lc, telephone 468-4283, or our WhatsApp Helpdesk at 286-3264.
AI for Small Businesses Certificates Ready for Collection
The Saint Lucia Chamber of Commerce, Industry and Agriculture is pleased to inform participants of the AI for Small Businesses training programme that their Certificates of Completion are now available for collection.
Participants are invited to collect their certificates from the Chamber Secretariat during regular office hours, Monday to Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
If you are unable to collect your certificate personally, you may authorize someone to collect it on your behalf. Kindly notify the Chamber Secretariat in advance with the name of the individual who will be collecting your certificate.
We congratulate all participants on successfully completing the programme and commend your commitment to developing practical AI skills that will enhance productivity, innovation, and business growth.
We look forward to welcoming you to the Chamber Secretariat to collect your certificate.