The Premier, the Hon. David Burt, JP, MP, has described Bermuda’s participation in the 51st Regular Meeting of the Conference of Heads of Government of CARICOM in St. Lucia was “productive and forward looking”, highlighting that Bermuda’s discussions focused on food security, reducing the cost of living, trade diversification, and Bermuda’s continued engagement toward full CARICOM membership.
The public will note that Premier Burt attended the meeting alongside Minister of Home Affairs, the Hon. Alexa Lightbourne, JP, MP, who has led the Government’s national conversation on Full Membership in the Caribbean Community.
The Premier said Bermuda was “warmly received” by CARICOM member states and noted the continued support for Bermuda’s deeper engagement within the regional community.
Premier Burt said, “CARICOM member states have always been supportive of Bermuda and the other Associate Members. As a small jurisdiction navigating a rapidly changing global environment, it is important that we continue to strengthen our relationships, build partnerships, and work collaboratively on issues that impact our people.”
A major focus of the Heads of Government discussions was the cost of living, said Premier Burt, which remains a shared concern across the region.
Leaders reviewed initiatives designed to reduce food import costs, strengthen food security and sustainability, and expand agricultural production throughout CARICOM.
During the meetings, regional leaders examined strategies to boost food production, diversify import sources, and improve trade resilience. These efforts are intended to reduce dependence on traditional supply chains and create greater economic stability for consumers.
The Premier said, “There were extensive discussions on agriculture, food production and reducing food import bills. The cost of living is the number one issue not only in Bermuda but across the Caribbean. Working together with countries that are successfully reducing the cost of food and goods provides important opportunities for Bermuda.
“We are seeing significant work across the region focused on trade diversification and food security. That includes expanding access to goods from different markets and strengthening regional transportation and supply networks. These are practical measures that can help reduce the cost of imports and ultimately benefit Bermudian families.”
And Minister Lightbourne, who has responsibility for CARICOM and the Government’s Affordability Strategy, added, “The regional discussions aligned closely with the Affordable Bermuda Agenda and our work to lower household costs at home.
“For Bermuda, food security and affordability are kitchen table issues. They shape what families can put in the cupboard and what is left in the budget at the end of the month. We will pursue every opportunity to diversify our supply chains, strengthen food resilience, and identify practical measures that lower costs for consumers.
“The work underway across CARICOM on food production, agricultural innovation, and trade cooperation offers real opportunities for Bermuda as we build a more sustainable and resilient future.”
The Premier also emphasised that Bermuda has much to contribute to regional discussions, citing the Island’s economic expertise and strong international reputation.
The Premier added, “Bermuda is one of the most advanced economies in the world. We have significant expertise to share, and we also stand to gain from stronger regional partnerships. It is important that we continue to expand our relationships and take advantage of regional arrangements that can deliver benefits for our people.”
During the meeting, Premier Burt and Minister Lightbourne also held discussions related to Bermuda’s ongoing consideration of full CARICOM membership.
It should be noted that progress continues to be made as Bermuda works through the various technical and constitutional considerations associated with deeper integration.
The Premier said the Government’s proposed White Paper on Bermuda’s potential full membership in CARICOM remains an important part of that process and will outline the conclusions and recommendations arising from ongoing consultations and discussions.
The Premier said, “Progress has certainly been made in our discussions. The work is continuing, and the White Paper will set out the Government’s position and provide the public with a detailed explanation of the opportunities and considerations associated with full membership.”
He added that Bermuda’s engagement with CARICOM should be viewed through the lens of long term national interests.
“Countries cannot afford to stand still,” Premier Burt said.
“As we move forward, it is in Bermuda’s interest to strengthen and diversify our relationships around the world. Regional cooperation is an important part of ensuring future economic resilience and creating opportunities that benefit our people.”
And Minister Lightbourne noted, “The Government is advancing Bermuda’s engagement with CARICOM in a way that serves our long-term national interests. The forthcoming White Paper will set out the opportunities, the considerations, and the progress made to date in a form the public can readily understand. We will bring this work to a conclusion that serves Bermuda’s best interests.”
Reflecting on the meeting, Premier Burt said, “This was a very positive meeting. The discussions were focused on issues that matter to people every day, the cost of living, food security, trade and economic opportunity. Progress is being made, and Bermuda will continue to engage constructively with our regional partners to ensure those benefits are realized for Bermudians.”
