KINGSTON, Jamaica - Jamaica faces external non-tariff barriers to trade mainly from the United States, followed by Barbados and Antigua and Barbuda. But a new report also cites Jamaica for throwing up its own internal blockades to trade flows, which hamper exports. The new International Trade Centre (ITC) report on non-tariff barriers (NTMs) in the Caribbean indicates that export inspections are the most common burden affecting local companies in various agricultural and manufacturing sectors.

KINGSTON, Jamaica - FOR THE fifth time since forming the Government in January 2012, the Portia Simpson Miller-chaired Cabinet is to go into retreat.
Sandrea Falconer, minister with responsibility for information, said the Cabinet retreat will take place this Sunday.
"Cabinet ministers will discuss the growth agenda, including job-creation strategies, human-capital development, social inclusion, improved security and safety, fiscal prudence, and the pursuit of a credible economic programme," Falconer said at yesterday's weekly Jamaica House press briefing.

BRIDGETOWN, Barbados - Shanique Myrie was actually cleared to enter Barbados when she first arrived in the country two years ago.
But that clearance was cancelled moments later, after it was determined by Immigration Department officials at the Grantley Adams International Airport that the Jamaican woman had misrepresented information regarding who would be her host during her proposed 15-day stay in Barbados.

BRIDGETOWN, Barbados, CMC – A veteran immigration official Wednesday denied that Barbados had been treating Caribbean Community (CARICOM) nationals harshly in contravention of the CARICOM Single Market and Economy (CSME) that allows for the free movement of people across the region.
Senior Immigration Officer Merlo Reid told the Caribbean Court of Justice (CCJ) that passengers entering Barbados have to satisfy immigration requirements which include the possession of a return ticket, adequate funds and reasonable accommodation.

ST. GEORGE’S, Grenada, CMC – The World Bank has suspended disbursements to Grenada after seven loan defaults in February. The Washington based financial institution said no new loans would be issued to Grenada unless the island makes good on the overdue payments amounting to US$750,000. The payments were due on February 15 February and the World Bank has written to Prime Minister Dr. Keith Mitchell saying failure to make the loan payments on time is hampering its ability to assist other member countries.