AGP Executive Report

UN Diplomacy & Leadership: St. Kitts and Nevis’ Ambassador to the UN, Dr. Mutryce A. Williams, received the Golden Gavel Award for standout leadership as Vice President of the UN General Assembly. Housing & Construction: The National Housing Corporation is pushing ahead with new affordable homes in Buckley’s Settlement, Taylor’s Community and Sandy Point, with several projects nearing final stages. Energy Investment (Nevis): Partners including CDB, IDB, NIA and NEVLEC reviewed readiness for the next drilling phase of the Nevis Geothermal Project, including logistics and port access. Private Sector Expansion: PM Drew met Demerara Distillers (St. Kitts and Nevis) Ltd and Guyana’s BK Group on a major proposed expansion, with ground-breaking expected soon. Cost of Living Relief: Government extended temporary fuel and import relief measures through September 30, keeping excise and customs reductions on eligible gasoline. EU Pressure on Passports: The EU warned five Caribbean CBI states—including St. Kitts and Nevis—to phase out golden passports by June 1, 2028 or risk losing Schengen visa-free access. Real Estate Watch: A regional report says Eastern Caribbean property values, including St. Kitts and Nevis, have been stuck in a multi-year slump, with estimates of about a 10% drop over five years. CPL Business & Media: Republic Bank CPL 2026 broadcast partners were confirmed, with St. Kitts and Nevis Patriots set to play at the start of the season and free health screenings planned for fans.

Healthcare & Housing Investment: PM Drew says the Cardin Home is getting its biggest financial overhaul in nearly a century, with refurbishment led by prison-skilled workers to modernise care ahead of its 100th anniversary. Tax Administration Recognition: CARICOM tax officials honoured St. Kitts and Nevis’ retired Comptroller Edward Gift at COTA’s 2026 awards in Georgetown, spotlighting long-term revenue administration leadership. Renewables & Energy Security: Nevis geothermal work moves closer to drilling after a CDB/IDB/NIA/NEVLEC readiness review covering site logistics, port access, and mobilisation for the rig. Affordable Housing Delivery: The National Housing Corporation reports active construction across Buckley’s Settlement, Taylor’s Community and Sandy Point, with homes nearing final stages as the Renaissance Project expands. Cost of Living Relief: Cabinet extends fuel and import relief through Sept. 30, keeping 50% reductions on eligible gasoline excise and customs charges to cushion households and businesses. Medicinal Cannabis Compliance Build-Out: The Medicinal Cannabis Authority implements a seed-to-sale track-and-trace system to strengthen oversight and prepare the industry for future commercial operations. CBI Under EU Pressure: The EU sets a June 1, 2028 deadline for five Caribbean CBI programmes (including St. Kitts and Nevis) to phase out or risk losing Schengen visa-free access. CPL Business & Community: Republic Bank CPL confirms broadcast partners and rolls out free fan health screenings across host venues, tying tournament reach to early detection of non-communicable diseases.

Cost-of-Living Relief Extended: Cabinet has prolonged St. Kitts and Nevis’ temporary fuel and import relief through Sept. 30, 2026, keeping a 50% excise tax cut on eligible gasoline and a 50% customs service charge reduction, plus removal of shipper surcharges from customs tax/duty calculations. EU CBI Pressure: The EU has set a June 1, 2028 deadline for St. Kitts and Nevis (along with four other Eastern Caribbean states) to phase out citizenship-by-investment programmes or risk losing Schengen visa-free access. Housing Delivery Update: The National Housing Corporation’s Renaissance Project is pushing ahead with construction of affordable homes, including 12 units at Gillard Meadows (about 80% complete) aimed at expanding access in Central Basseterre. Social Services Digitised: Online platforms are expanding access to school-based assistance, with registration now live for CXC fee waivers, book loans, early childhood subventions and uniforms, supported by tools like JAD Cash and e-cash transfers. Medicinal Cannabis Track-and-Trace: The Medicinal Cannabis Authority has implemented a seed-to-sale digital system to monitor the supply chain and strengthen compliance, even as it has yet to announce its first commercial licence. Regional Business & Health: CPL is rolling out free fan health screenings at all eight host venues, partnering with health authorities to test for key non-communicable disease indicators. Sports Spotlight: Honda Newtown United stayed perfect after a 6–2 win over Mapau Cayon Rockettes, powered by Sharema Blake’s four-goal haul.

Cost-of-Living Relief Extended: Cabinet has prolonged St. Kitts and Nevis’ temporary fuel and import relief through Sept. 30, 2026, keeping a 50% excise tax cut on eligible gasoline, a 50% customs charge reduction, and removing shipper surcharges from customs tax/duty calculations. Digital Social Services: The Ministry of Social Development is rolling out more online access, including e-registration for the School-Based Assistance Programme and expanded use of digital tools like JAD Cash and e-cash transfers. Housing Push: Prime Minister Drew’s Cabinet tour highlighted ongoing Renaissance Project construction of more affordable, storm-ready homes, including Gillard Meadows (12 homes) and progress toward distribution for new homeowners. Medicinal Cannabis Track-and-Trace: The Medicinal Cannabis Authority has implemented a Seed-to-Sale Track and Trace system contract, aiming for tighter oversight and internationally compliant supply-chain monitoring, even as no commercial licence has yet been issued. Regional Business & Health Link: CPL is partnering with health authorities and NGOs to deliver free fan screenings at all eight host venues, targeting early detection of non-communicable diseases. CBI Scrutiny Watch: A new EU move threatens to end Schengen visa-free access for CBI states including St. Kitts and Nevis unless programmes are shut by 2028, raising pressure on the sector. Community & Talent: Nevis Culturama 52 crowned Mia Alexander Miss Culture Queen 2026, with local delegates also placing in major categories.

EU CBI Crackdown: The EU has warned five Caribbean states—including St. Kitts and Nevis—that citizenship-by-investment must end by 2028 or they risk losing Schengen visa-free access, a potential hit to a key second-citizenship route for wealthy Nigerians and other applicants. Medicinal Cannabis Compliance: St. Kitts and Nevis Medicinal Cannabis Authority has moved ahead with a Seed-to-Sale Track and Trace System contract, using a digital platform to monitor the full supply chain and strengthen regulatory oversight, even as the first commercial licence is still pending. Cost-of-Living Relief: Government has extended temporary fuel and import relief measures through Sept. 30, 2026, keeping excise and customs charge reductions on eligible gasoline to cushion households and businesses from volatile fuel and shipping costs. Nevis Dialysis Push: Nevis is advancing a first dedicated dialysis facility at Alexandra Hospital, with a US$1.3m investment for five stations and capacity for up to 20 patients. CPL Health Outreach: The Republic Bank CPL will offer free health screenings at all eight host venues across the region, including blood pressure, glucose, BMI, urinalysis and PSA testing. EC Dollar Stability: ECCB Governor Timothy N.J. Antoine again highlighted the EC dollar peg’s role in protecting purchasing power, keeping inflation low, and supporting confidence for trade and investment.

ECCB & EC dollar stability: ECCB Governor Timothy N.J. Antoine reiterated that the EC$2.70 to US$1.00 peg has preserved purchasing power, kept inflation low, and supported savings and business planning across the Eastern Caribbean. Cost-of-living relief: Cabinet extended St. Kitts and Nevis’ temporary fuel and import relief measures to Sept. 30, 2026, keeping a 50% excise tax cut on eligible gasoline, a 50% customs service charge reduction, and removing shipper charges from customs duty calculations. Health in the spotlight (CPL): The Republic Bank Caribbean Premier League will offer free health screenings at all eight host venues, with blood pressure, glucose, BMI, urinalysis and PSA testing aimed at early detection of non-communicable diseases. Medicinal cannabis compliance: The Medicinal Cannabis Authority executed a contract for a Seed-to-Sale Track and Trace system, using GrowerIQ software to monitor the full supply chain and support regulatory integrity. Nevis healthcare upgrade: Nevis is moving ahead with a US$1.3m dialysis facility at Alexandra Hospital, targeting completion in Q3 and adding five stations for up to 20 patients. Energy & infrastructure: PM Drew highlighted progress on the Basseterre Desalination Plant for 24-hour water access and pushed the broader resilience agenda. Regional empowerment: CARICOM Chair Philip J. Pierre said Emancipation Day must include economic empowerment—ownership, wealth creation and opportunity for young people and entrepreneurs.

Renewables Funding Call: IRENA opened a funding call for renewable energy projects across Central America and the Caribbean, including St. Kitts and Nevis, prioritizing proposals before Sept. 1 and covering solar, wind, hydro, geothermal, clean transport, green hydrogen and more. Water Security Push: PM Terrance Drew highlighted the Basseterre Desalination Plant’s push toward 24-hour water access for about 70% of the population, as part of a wider water system buildout. Electricity Relief for Households: SKELEC launched “ReConnect 15” for disconnected customers, offering a 15% down payment on outstanding balances plus a reduced reconnection fee during August. Medicinal Cannabis Oversight: The Medicinal Cannabis Authority says it has executed a contract for a Seed-to-Sale Track and Trace system to strengthen transparency and prevent diversion. Governance & Crime Law: Senator Dr Joyelle Clarke backed the Extradition (Amendment) Bill, 2026, framing it as a modern tool to tackle cross-border crime while protecting constitutional safeguards. Tourism & Local Business Boost: Star of the Seas brought 7,386–7,421 passengers to Port Zante, driving demand for taxis, tours, shops, food and crafts. Regional Culture Spotlight: Nevis crowned Tresjeur Dedier St. Kitts’ 1st Runner-Up at the Bank of Nevis Miss Caribbean Culture Queen 2026 pageant.

Energy & resilience: CCREEE executive director Dr Mohammad Rafik Nagdee says the Caribbean needs institutions, investment and partnerships—not just ambition—to scale renewables (currently ~12% of the energy mix) under the US$5.29m ASERT 2030 capacity programme. Water security: PM Terrance Drew highlights Basseterre Desalination Plant progress aimed at 24-hour water access for about 70% of the population, alongside wells, reservoirs and upgraded distribution. Power affordability: SKELEC launches “ReConnect 15” for August, letting eligible disconnected customers restore service with a 15% down payment and reduced reconnection fees. Governance & crime: Senator Dr Joyelle Clarke backs the Extradition (Amendment) Bill, 2026, arguing it closes legal gaps to tackle cross-border crime while protecting constitutional safeguards. Medicinal cannabis: St. Kitts and Nevis Medicinal Cannabis Authority secures a Seed-to-Sale Track and Trace system to monitor the full supply chain and prevent diversion. Tourism boost: Star of the Seas brings 7,300+ passengers to Port Zante, lifting spending for taxis, tours, restaurants and vendors. Regional business & mobility: PM Drew calls for stronger Africa–Caribbean connectivity and reciprocal visa-free travel to support trade and investment. Citizenship-by-investment pressure: EU moves to end “golden passports” in several Caribbean states by 2028, warning of possible loss of Schengen visa-free access. Culture & community: Nevis hosts the Bank of Nevis Miss Caribbean Culture Queen Pageant as delegates arrive, with Tarihanna Maynard named First Runner-Up in the Bank of Nevis Miss Culture Queen 2026.

EU CBI Crackdown: Brussels has warned Antigua & Barbuda, Dominica, Grenada, St. Kitts and Nevis, and St. Lucia they have until 2028 to end citizenship-by-investment or face losing visa-free access to the Schengen area—raising pressure on regional passport sales that attract demand from African applicants facing high Schengen rejection rates. Water Security Push: PM Terrance Drew says the Basseterre Desalination Plant is on track to deliver 24-hour water access for about 70% of the population, alongside wells, reservoirs and upgraded distribution. Electricity Relief: SKELEC launched “ReConnect 15” for disconnected customers, letting eligible households pay 15% of outstanding balances plus a reduced reconnection fee to restore service during August. Medicinal Cannabis Upgrade: The Medicinal Cannabis Authority secured a Seed-to-Sale Track and Trace system to monitor cultivation through retail, aiming to prevent diversion and strengthen compliance. Governance & Crime Response: The National Assembly passed the Extradition (Amendment) Bill, 2026, with ministers framing it as a legal upgrade to tackle cross-border crime while protecting constitutional safeguards. Tourism & Business Boost: Star of the Seas brought 7,300+ passengers to Port Zante, driving demand for taxis, tours, shops and local food. Relocation Spotlight: St. Kitts and Nevis ranked 8th globally in the Rumavi 2026 relocation index, topping the Caribbean on multiple metrics including tax-friendliness. Nevis Culture Calendar: Nevis hosts the Bank of Nevis Miss Caribbean Culture Queen Pageant with delegates arriving, as Culturama 52 continues with major soca crowns.

Water Security & Infrastructure: PM Terrance Drew says the Basseterre Desalination Plant is set to deliver 24-hour water access for about 70% of the population, as the government pushes on with wells, reservoirs and upgraded distribution. Electricity Relief: SKELEC launches “ReConnect 15” for disconnected customers, letting eligible households restart service with a 15% down payment and a reduced reconnection fee during August. Medicinal Cannabis Sector: St. Kitts and Nevis secures a Seed-to-Sale Track and Trace system for medicinal cannabis, using Grower IQ software to monitor cultivation through retail and prevent diversion. Governance & Justice: The National Assembly advances the Extradition (Amendment) Bill, 2026, aimed at closing legal gaps and modernising how courts receive a certified “record of the case” for cross-border crime. Tourism & Business Pulse: Star of the Seas brought 7,386–7,421 passengers to Port Zante, boosting taxis, tours, restaurants and vendors in Basseterre. Investment & Economy Watch: Cabinet says the economy remains fiscally solid despite lower CBI revenue, citing an IMF mid-year assessment. Regional Energy Outlook: Nevis Premier Mark Brantley says geothermal drilling is moving closer, with rig mobilisation expected soon. Diaspora & Trade Links: RIDU highlights diaspora engagement via its Diaspora Digest, while PM Drew renews calls for stronger Africa-Caribbean mobility and trade ties. Relocation Branding: Rumavi ranks St. Kitts and Nevis 8th globally for relocation suitability, topping the Caribbean in the index. Culture & Community: Nevis hosts the 2026 Bank of Nevis Miss Caribbean Culture Queen Pageant on Aug. 3, while Nevis Culturama 52 crowns Groovy and Power Soca Monarch champions.

Water Security Push: PM Terrance Drew says the Basseterre Desalination Plant is on track to deliver 24-hour water access for about 70% of St. Kitts, alongside new wells, reservoirs and upgraded distribution—aimed at ending drought-driven shortages. Power Relief for Households: SKELEC launches “ReConnect 15” for August, letting disconnected customers restart service with a 15% down payment and a reduced reconnection fee, after months of public frustration over disconnections. Justice & Crime Cooperation: Senator Dr Joyelle Clarke backs the Extradition (Amendment) Bill, 2026, while the AG says it closes legal gaps so courts can receive a certified “record of the case” and strengthen cross-border crime response. Energy Transition Watch: Nevis Premier Mark Brantley says geothermal drilling is moving closer, with rig mobilization expected soon after delays were resolved; meanwhile the domestic fuel surcharge has returned, tied to global oil volatility. Medicinal Cannabis Regulation: The Medicinal Cannabis Authority confirms a Seed-to-Sale Track and Trace system contract, using real-time monitoring to prevent diversion and support compliance. Tourism & Local Business: Star of the Seas brought 7,300+ passengers to Port Zante, boosting taxis, tours, shops and eateries in Basseterre. CBI Under Pressure: The EU has warned five Eastern Caribbean CBI states, including St. Kitts and Nevis, to phase out programs by June 1, 2028 or face possible Schengen visa exemption suspension. Governance & Transparency: PM Drew highlights progress on water, electricity, health and education, and points to Integrity in Public Life measures requiring annual asset declarations. Culture with Economic Pull: Nevis hosts the 2026 Bank of Nevis Miss Caribbean Culture Queen Pageant, while Culturama 52 continues with major steelpan and soca competitions.

Creative Industries & Jobs: PM Drew’s media tour spotlighted the $50m Prime Creative Arts Centre, a CBI-funded Public Benefit Option meant to become the Eastern Caribbean’s biggest integrated hub for creatives, with a projected three-year buildout. Food Security: Officials updated progress on the Greenhouse Village Initiative, aimed at cutting St. Kitts and Nevis’ heavy food import bill through climate-resilient greenhouse farming and farmer cooperatives. Medicinal Cannabis Regulation: The Medicinal Cannabis Authority says a Seed-to-Sale Track and Trace system is now being implemented, using real-time monitoring to strengthen patient safety, transparency, and prevent diversion. Energy Costs & Reliability: Nevis Premier Brantley urged electricity conservation as the domestic fuel surcharge returns, citing global oil volatility and the need to keep NEVLEC’s subsidy sustainable. Geothermal Push: Nevis also moved closer to drilling as the geothermal rig is expected to be mobilised soon after resolved delays. Tourism Demand: Star of the Seas brought 7,300+ passengers to Port Zante, boosting taxis, tours, vendors, and restaurants across Basseterre. Business Climate Signals: St. Kitts and Nevis ranked 8th globally in the 2026 Rumavi Global Relocation Index, topping the Caribbean on multiple mover categories. Policy & Governance: The National Assembly advanced a good-governance agenda, including Banking (Amendment) and Extradition (Amendment) reforms aimed at modernising systems and closing legal gaps. Regional Trade & Mobility: PM Drew called for fewer barriers between Africa and the Caribbean, including reciprocal visa-free travel and stronger air and maritime links. SME Financing Challenge: Caribbean Export Development Agency flagged persistent MSME financing gaps across the region, especially limited access to patient growth capital. Hospitality Investment: Park Hyatt St. Kitts added senior commercial leadership with new cluster sales and marketing appointments to support regional revenue growth. Cruise-to-Community Economy: The federation’s tourism lift from cruise arrivals continues to translate into day-to-day spending for local businesses.

Cruise Boost for Local Trade: Star of the Seas brought 7,300+ passengers to Port Zante, driving foot traffic for taxis, tour guides, shops, vendors and restaurants across Basseterre. Medicinal Cannabis Upgrade: St. Kitts and Nevis secured a Seed-to-Sale Seed-to-Sale Track and Trace system for the medicinal cannabis industry, using real-time monitoring to improve safety, transparency and regulatory compliance. Investment & Mobility Push: PM Terrance Drew urged Africa-Caribbean connectivity at the UN and in London, calling for fewer barriers to travel, trade and investment and highlighting visa-free access for African nationals. Fiscal Watch: The IMF told Cabinet the economy remains fiscally solid despite lower CBI revenue, while flagging risks tied to Social Security and public enterprises. Social Services Go Digital: Online platforms are expanding access to school and welfare support, including online registration and e-cash tools for approved beneficiaries. Nevis Energy Update: Nevis geothermal progress continues, with drilling rig mobilisation expected soon after delays were resolved. Governance & Justice Moves: The National Assembly advanced key bills, including extradition reforms aimed at closing legal gaps and strengthening cooperation on cross-border crime. Relocation Spotlight: St. Kitts and Nevis ranked 8th globally in the Rumavi Global Relocation Index, topping the Caribbean across multiple categories. Tourism Retail Expansion: Nevis launched its official online store, Shop Nevis Naturally, with worldwide shipping for island-themed products.

National Development Scrutiny: Prime Minister Terrance Drew’s media tour is putting the government’s capital-development record under a sharper public lens, with questions raised about whether fewer than 10 “key projects” match the scale of promised transformation since 2022. Governance & Finance: The National Assembly advanced good-governance priorities, including the Extradition (Amendment) Bill, 2026, aimed at closing legal gaps and modernising extradition processes, while Cabinet said the economy remains fiscally solid despite a drop in Citizenship by Investment inflows. Water & Energy Push: Drew highlighted major gains in water security and other services, while Nevis Premier Mark Brantley says the Nevis Geothermal Project is moving toward drilling as the rig is expected to be mobilised soon; Brantley also urged electricity conservation as the fuel surcharge returns. Medicinal Cannabis Regulation: St. Kitts secured a Seed-to-Sale Track and Trace system for the medicinal cannabis industry to improve supply-chain transparency and prevent diversion. Tourism & Business Lift: The Star of the Seas brought 7,400+ passengers to Port Zante, boosting taxis, tours, vendors and restaurants, and Nevis launched “Shop Nevis Naturally,” its first official online store for year-round retail. Relocation Spotlight: St. Kitts and Nevis ranked 8th globally in the 2026 Rumavi Global Relocation Index, topping the Caribbean, with strong tax-friendliness but weaker startup ecosystem scores. Local Economy & Community: Nevis Culturama 52 crowned Oualie Rhythms’ Groovy and Power Soca champions, and Nevis Pages congratulated National Bank “Text Your Predictions” winners.

IMF Update: Cabinet heard the IMF’s half-year assessment saying St. Kitts and Nevis’ fiscal position is still solid even as Citizenship by Investment (CBI) revenue falls, with tax receipts steady and spending contained, while risks like Social Security Board and public enterprise liabilities need monitoring. Social Services Digitisation: The Ministry of Social Development launched online registration for school support (CXC fee waivers, book loans, early childhood subventions and uniforms), using tools like JAD Cash and e-cash transfers to centralise records and speed access. Governance & Justice: Attorney General Garth Wilkin pushed the Extradition (Amendment) Bill to close legal gaps and modernise how courts receive a certified “record of the case,” while the High Court discharged a DPP restraint order against Gregory Gilpin-Payne and three companies and ordered costs. Nevis Energy: Nevis Premier Mark Brantley says the geothermal project is moving toward drilling as the rig is expected to be mobilised soon, and urged electricity conservation as the domestic fuel surcharge returns. CBI Pressure From Europe: A new EU warning to phase out CBI programmes by June 1, 2028 raises fresh business and migration-policy uncertainty for the Federation. Local Business & Tourism: Nevis launched its first official online store, Shop Nevis Naturally, while St. Kitts welcomed the Allure of the Seas with thousands of visitors boosting day-to-day spending. Hospitality Appointments: Park Hyatt St. Kitts added senior leadership, naming a cluster sales and marketing director to strengthen commercial strategy.

CBI Shock to Europe: The EU has asked St. Kitts and Nevis (with four other Eastern Caribbean states) to phase out citizenship-by-investment by June 1, 2028, warning that visa-free access could be suspended under the revised Visa Suspension Mechanism—prompting calls for a longer transition. Local Pushback on Timing: Nevis Premier Mark Brantley argues the region needs a five-year runway, not two, to replace CBI revenue without triggering an “existential threat” to small economies. Regional Finance Reality Check: Caribbean Export Development Agency’s Dr. Damie Sinanan says MSMEs across the region struggle with access to affordable, patient capital—due to scale and high due-diligence costs. Nevis Energy Milestone: Nevis geothermal is back on track, with drilling rig mobilisation expected shortly after delays were resolved; the project targets a 30MW plant and affordable electricity. Tourism Boost: St. Kitts welcomed Allure of the Seas to Port Zante with 6,702 passengers, a high-impact day for local vendors and attractions. Governance & Business Rules: The National Assembly order paper sets first readings for banking, payment systems, and liquor licence amendments, alongside an extradition amendment second reading. Court Clears Restraint: The High Court discharged a restraint order against Gregory Gilpin-Payne and three companies and ordered the DPP to pay costs. Household Finance Reminder: Property tax payments are due by July 31, with interest and penalties not yet applied.