August 3, 2023, BRIDGETOWN, Barbados – Micro Small and Medium Sized Enterprises (MSMEs) of Antigua and Barbuda will soon benefit from capacity building interventions that will enable private sector entities to access markets in the European Union (EU). The project entitled “Strengthening Private Sector Capacity to Utilise the CARIFORUM European Union Economic Partnership Agreement (EPA) to Increase Competitiveness and Maximise Opportunities for Global Export” is the second project being implemented in Antigua and Barbuda through the EPA and CSME Standby Facility for Capacity Building.
The project will also focus on interventions aimed at greater market penetration within the CSME by building sustainable export capacity of MSMEs. According to the Honourable E.P. Chet Greene, Minister of Foreign Affairs, Agriculture, Trade and Barbuda Affairs, Antigua and Barbuda “…the project signifies a new era in our collaboration with the private sector towards greater economic growth, competitiveness, innovation and overall development and will assist local MSMEs to overcome existing export and market access barriers.” He added that the Government must focus on empowering businesses to tap into their full potential.
The new project is being managed by the Caribbean Development Bank (CDB). Project Manager, EPA & CSME Standby Facility, Mr. Cyril Gill, stated that the Bank looks forward to continued partnership with the Government of Antigua and Barbuda as they implement this initiative for the advancement of the country’s MSMEs.
Speaking at the event, he indicated that the project is unique and timely in that it emphasizes the establishment of a digitally enabled framework where businesses can establish an online presence for the promotion and sale of their products. He further highlighted that it is critical, in the postpandemic period that
