By Antonio Dey | HGP Nightly News
CARICOM Trade Concerns
The CARICOM Private Sector Organization (CPSO) has warned that the U.S. decision to raise Trinidad and Tobago’s reciprocal tariff rate from 10% to 15% could severely impact the twin-island nation’s economy — already the most exposed within CARICOM. CPSO CEO Dr. Patrick Antoine cautioned that this hike undermines historic trade ties with the U.S., projecting losses of US$291.9 million annually, particularly in base metals and chemicals which are crucial to both Trinidad’s economy and U.S. supply chains. The CPSO is calling for urgent coordinated action across the region to safeguard competitiveness.
Cuban Teachers Return to Bahamian Classrooms
Over 100 Cuban teachers are set to return to Bahamian schools next week under a new hiring framework. The government restructured the recruitment system after U.S. warnings that prior agreements resembled forced labor, with most of the teachers’ salaries being retained by the Cuban state. Education Director Dominique McCartney Russell confirmed that while many educators are returning, some contracts expired. However, a shortfall of 30 to 35 teachers remains, with vacancies in language arts, technical studies, performing arts, early childhood, and health education. Currently, 130 Cuban teachers are employed in Bahamian schools.
U.S. Visa Holders Under Review
And finally, in international news, the Trump administration has announced it is reviewing the immigration status of more than 55 million U.S. visa holders to identify possible violations that could result in deportation. The State Department confirmed that all visas are now subject to continuous vetting, which may lead to abrupt revocation of permissions even for previously approved visitors. This marks another step in the administration’s broader crackdown on immigration, following earlier moves targeting students, exchange visitors, and undocumented migrants.
