The Network of Caribbean Chambers of Commerce (CARICHAM) has reaffirmed its commitment to regional resilience and private sector leadership following a series of high-level meetings held in Barbados from 24 to 26 March 2026. According to Antigua.news, the engagements brought together Chambers of Commerce from across the Caribbean, regional institutions, and development partners to strengthen collaboration in the interest of the communities they serve.
Hosted in partnership with the United Nations Office for Disaster Risk Reduction (UNDRR), the programme opened with a two-day Regional Private Sector Workshop on Multi-Hazard Early Warning Systems (MHEWS) and business resilience at the United Nations House in Bridgetown.
The workshop examined how early warning systems, resilient supply chains, and business continuity planning can protect lives, safeguard investments, and support more competitive Caribbean economies. The discussions also advanced the goals of the global Early Warnings for All (EW4All) initiative.
Building on the workshop's momentum, CARICHAM convened a strategic retreat at the Hilton Barbados Resort to define its collective agenda for the 2026–2027 period. Member Chambers reviewed CARICHAM's strategic direction, reflected on shared priorities emerging from recent consultations, and agreed on concrete next steps to enhance joint action across the network.
A key outcome of the retreat was the establishment of dedicated committees designed to drive implementation of CARICHAM's vision. These committees — covering advocacy, business opportunities, resilience, and governance and communication — will coordinate work programmes, mobilise expertise across member Chambers, and work to ensure regional initiatives deliver tangible benefits for businesses and communities.
Leaders emphasised that the creation of these committees signals a renewed commitment to cooperation among CARICHAM members. By pooling knowledge, aligning advocacy, and coordinating action, the network aims to foster deeper collaboration, support risk-informed investment, and address key regional challenges including disaster risk reduction, supply chain resilience, and sustainable growth.
Through its partnership with UNDRR and regional organisations, CARICHAM will continue to champion the private sector as a critical partner in resilience-building and early warning systems across the Caribbean. The outcomes of the Barbados meetings will feed into CARICHAM's workplan and regional guidelines currently being developed to enhance private sector engagement in disaster risk reduction and Multi-Hazard Early Warning Systems.
