The United States has announced a new travel ban affecting 12 countries, including Haiti, citing national security concerns. This decision has raised significant apprehension throughout the Caribbean region, where familial, economic, and cultural ties to the U.S. are deeply rooted.

On June 4, President Donald Trump signed a proclamation enforcing a travel ban on citizens from 12 countries, among them Haiti. The directive, effective June 9, 2025, restricts entry for nationals of these countries, impacting both immigrant and non-immigrant visa applicants. While the ban does not revoke existing visas, it further intensifies the administration’s broader immigration policies during Trump’s second term.

The ban has elicited strong reactions from various quarters. Miami community leaders have condemned the measure, labeling it xenophobic and harmful to South Florida’s diverse immigrant populations. Local officials, including Miami-Dade County Commissioner Marleine Bastien, herself Haitian-born, warned that the ban would separate families and create chaos in communities.

Critics argue that the policy is discriminatory and reminiscent of earlier travel bans targeting Muslim-majority nations. Legal experts suggest that while the revised order may be difficult to challenge in courts due to its carefully crafted justifications, targeted lawsuits are anticipated. The administration maintains that the list of affected countries is subject to change based on improvements in their security compliance.

The Caribbean community is particularly concerned about the implications of this ban. Many families have members residing in both the U.S. and Caribbean nations, and the restrictions could disrupt familial connections, economic activities, and cultural exchanges. As the policy takes effect, Caribbean nations are closely monitoring the situation and exploring diplomatic avenues to address the concerns arising from this development.

For more information on the travel ban and its implications, individuals are advised to consult the U.S. Department of State’s official website or contact the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate.

Hon. Lorna Smith, OBE, Minister for Financial Services, Labour, and Trade of the Virgin Islands, is leading a three-member delegation to the Cayman Islands as part of a fact-finding mission aimed at strengthening the Virgin Islands’ approach to business development and economic diversification.

The mission focuses on studying the Cayman Islands’ efforts to build a modern, business-enabling ecosystem, with particular attention to initiatives such as Cayman Enterprise City (CEC), Health City, Cayman Tech, and related institutions.

“The team is focused on identifying best practices and transferable lessons that can support the Virgin Islands’ own efforts to enhance its ease of doing business and foster economic diversification,” Smith said. “This experience will no doubt be of benefit to all participants including the delegation from the Virgin Islands, as we together seek similar goals — to find innovative ways to do business, and grow and strengthen our economy.”

During the visit, the delegation is scheduled to meet with several high-level Cayman officials, including Premier and Minister of Financial Services and Commerce, Honourable Andre Ebanks, and Deputy Premier and Minister of Tourism and Trade Development, Honourable Gary Rutty.

Other planned engagements include discussions with senior representatives from the Special Economic Zone Authority, the Chamber of Commerce, the Department of Commerce and Investment, and personnel from Customs, Immigration, and Labour.

Delegation members accompanying Minister Smith include Ms. Ayiesha De Coteau Sammy, Director of Investment Promotion; Dr. Lincoln Bobb, Deputy Director of Trade; and Dr. Dawn Alexander-Joseph, Policy Analyst II.

The Ministry of Financial Services, Economic Development and Digital Transformation said the mission is expected to help guide future policy planning and provide insights into building a competitive and resilient economy.

The Ministry is tasked with regulating financial institutions and services, promoting financial stability, and supporting economic growth across the Territory. It also oversees initiatives aimed at boosting investor confidence, consumer protection, and financial inclusion.

The Government of Jamaica has formally appointed Paul Dennis, KC, as its Honorary Consul to the British Virgin Islands (BVI), marking the first such appointment in the Territory. Mr. Dennis, a Jamaican national who has lived in the BVI for the past 32 years, is the Senior Partner at the local law firm O’Neal Webster.

Mr. Dennis paid a courtesy call on Premier Dr. Natalio Wheatley, during which he presented his credentials and discussed potential areas of cooperation between the two Caribbean neighbours. The appointment reflects the significant Jamaican diaspora in the Virgin Islands and is expected to deepen collaboration in trade, economic cooperation, agriculture, border security, education, and cultural exchange.

“As small island developing states, our strength lies in unity and our ability to stand together on matters of mutual interest and common concern,” Premier Wheatley said. “This new representation acknowledges the deep cultural and historical bonds between Jamaica and the Virgin Islands and creates a platform for stronger community ties, practical cooperation, and mutual advancement. We look forward to working closely with the Honorary Consul Mr. Dennis and the Government of Jamaica to deepen these connections and explore new avenues for partnership.”

In his new role, Mr. Dennis will provide consular support to Jamaican nationals in the BVI and promote Jamaica’s interests in the Territory. He will operate from offices at Commerce House, 181 Main Street, Road Town, Tortola, and work closely with local government officials to strengthen relations and identify opportunities for collaboration.

“It is a great privilege to serve as Jamaica’s Honorary Consul in the Virgin Islands,” Mr. Dennis said. “I am committed to serving the Jamaican community, promoting Jamaica’s interests, and strengthening the relationship between our two territories. This appointment comes at a time when Caribbean nations are seeking to strengthen regional ties and promote integration in response to global challenges, including climate change, food security, and economic resilience. I look forward to working with the Government of the Virgin Islands to advance shared priorities.”

The Government of the Virgin Islands has extended its best wishes to Mr. Dennis as he assumes this important role, welcoming the appointment as a step towards fostering closer regional cooperation and enhancing the spirit of Caribbean solidarity.