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Trump’s New Tariffs Threaten Caribbean Economies With Higher Costs and Trade Uncertainty
The Caribbean is bracing for economic turbulence following the Trump administration’s announcement of sweeping tariffs on imported goods, a policy shift that experts warn could significantly impact regional economies.
The new tariffs, introduced in April 2025, impose a baseline 10% duty on all imports, with higher levies targeting key industries, including automobiles, electronics, and manufacturing materials. The measures are part of a broader strategy to reduce reliance on foreign goods and promote domestic production in the United States, but the repercussions are already being felt beyond American borders.
For the Caribbean, where many consumer products, building materials, and energy supplies are imported from or pass through the U.S., the new trade barriers threaten to drive up costs and disrupt supply chains. Caribbean businesses and governments are now forced to reassess trade strategies and consider alternative markets as they navigate this sudden shift in U.S. policy.
Economists predict a sharp rise in consumer prices across the region. Essential goods such as appliances, motor vehicles, and construction supplies could see double-digit price hikes as importers pass on increased costs to consumers. Additionally, tourism, the lifeblood of many Caribbean economies, could take a hit if American consumers face higher expenses at home and cut back on discretionary spending, including travel to the region.
Beyond direct economic impacts, the tariffs are raising concerns about future trade relations between the U.S. and the Caribbean. CARICOM leaders have expressed apprehension over the unpredictability of American trade policies and the potential for further restrictions that could stifle economic growth. Prime Minister Gaston Browne of Antigua and Barbuda has called for a unified CARICOM response, urging regional leaders to negotiate with the U.S. government to protect Caribbean interests.
As the new tariffs take effect, Caribbean governments and businesses must explore ways to diversify trade partners, strengthen regional economic cooperation, and invest in local production to mitigate reliance on imported goods.
The man who drowned off the coast of Carrot Bay on Wednesday has been identified as Ronnie a Jamaican national employed employed by Mr. Roy Smith as a backhoe operator in the British Virgin Islands.
The incident occurred near the former site of the Isabella Morris Primary School, an area commonly used for shoreline fishing. Ronnie had been fishing with two other men when a large wave swept him into the sea.
His companions ran to seek help, but by the time emergency personnel arrived, Ronnie had already disappeared beneath the water. Local fishermen later recovered his body. The drowning occurred shortly before 5:30 p.m.
The body was held on a vessel at the Fisherman’s Ramp while officers from the Royal Virgin Islands Police Force remained on scene to begin their investigation. An autopsy has been ordered.
The police investigation is ongoing. No foul play is suspected at this time.
Authorities have reminded the public to exercise caution along rocky coastlines, especially during periods of high surf or strong wave activity.
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Monéa Earns Caribbean Music Awards Nomination, Making History for the British Virgin Islands
Rising music star Monéa has just hit another major milestone—she’s been nominated for a Caribbean Music Award, officially placing her among the top breakout dancehall artists of the year. She joins a talented lineup of emerging acts, including Armanii, Malie Donn, and Lady Lava, further proving that her influence on the Caribbean music scene is only growing.
Monéa is up for Caribbean R&B Artist of the Year, competing against a strong roster of regional talent, including Barbados’ Amanda Reifer and Jamaican stars Tosh Alexander, D’yani, and Dexta Daps—whom she’s previously collaborated with. Her signature sound, which she calls “Tropikana”—a fusion of dancehall and pop—has been turning heads internationally, solidifying her status as a genre-bending force in the industry.
The Caribbean Music Awards, now in its third year, will take place over Labor Day weekend in New York. Hosted by the Caribbean Elite Group, the event honors artists, producers, and industry professionals across multiple Caribbean genres. This year’s awards feature over 150 nominees across 40+ categories, including standout artists from the U.S. Virgin Islands like Pressure, Pumpa, Th3rd, Star Martin, and Kruziano.
Fans can support Monéa by casting their votes on the Caribbean Music Awards website, with voting open until Friday, May 1.
This nomination is historic—not only for Monéa but for her home, the British Virgin Islands. She’s officially the first artist from the BVI to ever receive a nod from the Caribbean Music Awards. The recognition couldn’t come at a better time, as she gears up to drop her highly anticipated sophomore album, Tropikana Vol. 2: Mood Swings, later this summer.
“Being nominated is an incredible honor,” Monéa said. “To be recognized among such talented artists is humbling, and I’m grateful for the support of my fans and my home in the BVI.”
Two individuals were arrested in connection with a violent incident reported on November 8, 2024.
Melicia Bodkin, 30, of Huntums Ghut, was charged with wounding and damage to property on February 24, while Deschon Hodge, 31, was charged with assault occasioning actual bodily harm, being armed with an offensive weapon, and damage to property on February 26. Both have been granted bail and will appear in court in April.
Premier Wheatley Presents Top Award at BVI Spring Regatta
Jamaican National Ronnie Identified as Carrot Bay Drowning Victim
Man Drowns After Being Swept Off Rocks by Wave in the Carrot Bay
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