AGP Executive Report

Public Service Hiring Crunch: Overseas Territories leaders met at Bermuda’s Underwater Exploration Institute to spotlight civil service recruitment woes driven by ageing populations, outward migration, and private-sector competition—Anguilla was among the delegations discussing how to make government careers more attractive. Marine Conservation Boost: Montserrat officially joined the UK’s Blue Belt Programme on World Oceans Day, committing to protect at least 20% of its maritime zone and gaining scientific and technical support for Marine Protected Areas, fisheries management, marine planning, and updated marine laws—joining Anguilla and other Caribbean UK territories already in the programme. Environment Month Push: St. Kitts and Nevis launched its 2026 Environment Month under a climate-action theme tied to the Sustainable Island State Agenda, stressing community stewardship and partnerships to turn environmental goals into everyday action. Entrepreneur Support: St. Maarten’s Chamber and RVO ran a business support session on grants and finance tools for international growth, including export training, trade missions, and market-entry support. Tourism Tech & Branding: Anguilla’s Tourist Board delegation attended Caribbean Week in New York to promote “One Caribbean: Infinite Experiences,” aiming to strengthen regional partnerships and travel trade visibility.

Public Service Hiring Crunch: Overseas Territories leaders say civil service recruitment is getting harder as populations age, people move abroad, and private-sector pay competes—so Bermuda is rolling out a career expo to make government roles more appealing. Marine Conservation Boost: Montserrat has joined the UK’s Blue Belt Programme, committing to protect at least 20% of its maritime zone, with support for marine protected areas, fisheries management, habitat surveys, and updated marine laws. Regional Fisheries Focus: The CRFM ministerial council met by teleconference, pushing aquaculture growth, food security, climate and disaster resilience, and continued progress against illegal fishing—while Antigua and Barbuda’s minister took over the chair from Anguilla. Local Tech & Business Support: COCI and RVO hosted a business support session connecting entrepreneurs to grants and funding tools for international trade and market entry. Anguilla Tourism Presence: Anguilla’s Tourist Board delegation is in New York for Caribbean Week, pitching “One Caribbean: Infinite Experiences” to partners and media. Environment Month Momentum: St. Kitts and Nevis launched its 2026 Environment Month, tying climate action to community stewardship and empowerment.

Marine Conservation: Montserrat has joined the UK’s Blue Belt Programme, announced on World Oceans Day, committing to protect at least 20% of its maritime zone and gaining access to scientific expertise to set up Marine Protected Areas, modernise marine legislation, and strengthen fisheries management—Montserrat becomes the 4th Caribbean UK Overseas Territory in the programme alongside Anguilla, Turks and Caicos, and the Cayman Islands. Regional Fisheries & Blue Economy: The CRFM Ministerial Council met by teleconference, focusing on aquaculture growth, food security, climate/disaster resilience via insurance, and progress against IUU fishing; Antigua and Barbuda’s Randy Baltimore was elected Chair for 2026–2027, taking over from Anguilla’s Kyle Hodge. Local Tourism Presence: Anguilla’s Tourist Board delegation is in New York for Caribbean Week 2026 (June 1–5), aiming to strengthen partnerships and promote Anguilla under the theme “One Caribbean: Infinite Experiences.” Environment Month (Regional): St. Kitts and Nevis launched its 2026 Environment Month, themed “Climate Action: For Environment. For Empowerment. For Everyone,” linking stewardship to economic development and community engagement.

Environment Stewardship: St. Kitts and Nevis kicked off 2026 Environment Month on June 5, tying climate action to community stewardship and the Sustainable Island State Agenda, with a push for shared responsibility and empowerment. Marine Conservation Tech Support: Montserrat has joined the UK Blue Belt Programme on World Ocean Day, aiming to protect at least 20% of its maritime zone using science-based marine governance, better fisheries management, Marine Protected Areas, and updated marine legislation. Regional Fisheries Governance: The CRFM Ministerial Council met via teleconference, focusing on aquaculture growth, food security, climate and disaster resilience (including insurance), and progress against IUU fishing; Antigua and Barbuda’s Randy Baltimore was elected Chair for 2026–2027, succeeding Anguilla’s Kyle Hodge. Tourism & Regional Networking: Anguilla’s Tourist Board delegation is in New York for Caribbean Week in New York 2026 (June 1–5), joining CTO discussions under “One Caribbean: Infinite Experiences” to strengthen partnerships and market reach. Business Support & Funding Access: COCI and the Netherlands Enterprise Agency (RVO) hosted a business support session in St. Maarten, outlining grant and finance pathways for entrepreneurs, including export and market-entry support.

Blue Belt Marine Conservation: Montserrat has officially joined the UK Government’s Blue Belt Programme on World Ocean Day, aiming to protect at least 20% of its maritime zone through Marine Protected Areas, fisheries management, marine habitat surveys, and updated marine legislation—Montserrat becomes the fourth Caribbean UK Overseas Territory to join, alongside Anguilla, Turks and Caicos, and the Cayman Islands. Regional Fisheries Governance: The CRFM Ministerial Council held its 20th regular meeting by teleconference, focusing on aquaculture growth, food security, climate and disaster resilience via insurance, and progress against illegal fishing; Antigua and Barbuda’s Randy Baltimore was elected Chair for 2026–2027, succeeding Anguilla’s Kyle Hodge. Anguilla Tourism at CTO Forum: A high-level Anguilla Tourist Board delegation is attending Caribbean Week in New York (June 1–5) to push Anguilla’s tourism priorities and connect with regional partners under the theme “One Caribbean: Infinite Experiences.” Business Support for Entrepreneurs: COCI and the Netherlands Enterprise Agency (RVO) ran a business support session in St. Maarten highlighting funding and grant pathways for eligible entrepreneurs, including export and market-entry support. Aquaculture Tech Watch: Japan announced commercial trial sales of fully farmed eels, a major step toward reducing pressure on wild-caught juvenile eels.

Blue Belt Marine Science: Montserrat has officially joined the UK’s Blue Belt Programme on World Ocean Day, aiming to protect at least 20% of its maritime zone with science-based fisheries management, habitat surveys for Marine Protected Areas, and updated marine legislation. Regional Fisheries Governance: The CRFM Ministerial Council met by teleconference, tackling aquaculture growth, food security, climate/disaster resilience via insurance, and progress against illegal fishing; Antigua and Barbuda’s Randy Baltimore was elected Chair for 2026–2027, succeeding Anguilla’s Kyle Hodge. Anguilla Tourism at CTO Week: An Anguilla Tourist Board delegation is in New York for Caribbean Week in New York 2026, pushing “One Caribbean: Infinite Experiences” and regional partnerships. Aquaculture Breakthrough: Japan moved toward full-cycle eel farming with trial sales of fully farmed eels, reducing reliance on wild juvenile “glass eels” and supporting a more stable supply. Business Support Funding: COCI and the Netherlands Enterprise Agency (RVO) ran a session in St. Maarten outlining grants and access-to-finance options for eligible entrepreneurs. Luxury Travel Trend: A new “land-to-sea” wave is driving cruise growth as hotel-loyal clients follow trusted hospitality brands onto yachts, with advisors increasingly selling this as a fresh category.

Marine Conservation & Policy: Montserrat has officially joined the UK’s Blue Belt Programme on World Ocean Day, committing to protect at least 20% of its maritime zone and to use scientific support for Marine Protected Areas, fisheries management, marine spatial planning, and updated marine legislation. Regional Fisheries & Blue Economy: The CRFM Ministerial Council met via teleconference for its 20th regular meeting, focusing on aquaculture growth, food security, climate/disaster resilience (including insurance), and progress against illegal fishing; Antigua and Barbuda’s Randy Baltimore was elected Chair, succeeding Anguilla’s Kyle Hodge. Anguilla Tourism & Regional Networking: An Anguilla Tourist Board delegation is in New York for Caribbean Week in New York 2026, joining ministers and industry leaders to push “One Caribbean: Infinite Experiences” and strengthen tourism partnerships. Business Support for Entrepreneurs: COCI and the Netherlands Enterprise Agency (RVO) ran a business support session connecting entrepreneurs to funding and grant options, including export and international market entry support. Aquaculture Breakthrough: Japan announced world-first fully farmed eel sales, aiming to cut reliance on wild-caught juvenile eels through scalable farming of eel larvae.

Marine Conservation & Policy: Montserrat has joined the UK Government’s Blue Belt Programme on World Ocean Day, aiming to protect at least 20% of its maritime zone through Marine Protected Areas, fisheries management, marine spatial planning, and updated marine legislation—an effort that also boosts access to international scientific expertise. Regional Fisheries & Blue Economy: The CRFM Ministerial Council held its 20th regular meeting by teleconference, focusing on aquaculture expansion, food security, climate/disaster resilience via insurance, and progress against IUU fishing; Hon. Randy Baltimore (Antigua and Barbuda) was elected Chair, succeeding Anguilla’s Kyle Hodge. Anguilla Tourism on the Global Stage: An Anguilla Tourist Board delegation is attending Caribbean Week in New York 2026 (June 1–5), joining regional leaders under “One Caribbean: Infinite Experiences” to strengthen partnerships and grow tourism markets. Business Support & Funding Access: St. Maarten’s Chamber (COCI) and RVO ran a business support session connecting entrepreneurs to grants and finance tools like the Support International Business programme and trade-focused support mechanisms. Tech & Transport Watch: BermudAir (including AnguillAir) announced multiple new US routes, raising questions about service feasibility and network strategy despite its small fleet.

Caribbean Week in New York 2026: Anguilla’s tourism delegation is in Manhattan for the CTO’s June 1–5 summit under “One Caribbean: Infinite Experiences,” aiming to boost connectivity, resilience, and market share as travel preferences shift toward authentic and regenerative experiences. Regional Fisheries Policy: The CRFM Ministerial Council met by teleconference, electing Antigua and Barbuda’s Randy Baltimore as chair for 2026–2027, with ministers focusing on aquaculture growth, food security, climate/disaster resilience via insurance, and progress against illegal fishing. Aquaculture Breakthrough: Japan reports world-first commercial sales of fully farmed eels, designed to cut reliance on wild-caught juvenile “glass eels,” a potential model for more stable seafood supply. Local Tech/Wellness Trend: A Global Wellness Summit survey highlights wellness moving from resort amenities into homes, workplaces, and healthcare—turning health into a development strategy rather than a spa add-on. Conservation Pressure: Malawi’s Elephant Marsh shows how community-led conservation is fighting wetland shrinkage from settlement, farming, and deforestation that threatens thousands of fishing livelihoods.

Caribbean Week in New York 2026: Anguilla’s tourism delegation (Health, Tourism and Sports Minister Cardigan Connor and ATB leadership) is in Manhattan June 1–5 for the CTO’s “One Caribbean: Infinite Experiences” summit, joining regional ministers and industry leaders to push connectivity, resilience, and a unified Caribbean tourism pitch. Regional Fisheries Tech & Policy: The CRFM Ministerial Council (CARICOM) met via teleconference and elected Antigua’s Randy Baltimore as Chair, focusing on aquaculture expansion, food security, climate/disaster resilience (including insurance), and progress against IUU fishing. Aquaculture Breakthrough: Japan says it has achieved commercial, fully farmed eel production and trial sales, aiming to cut reliance on wild-caught juvenile eels and stabilize supply amid growing scrutiny. Travel Trends for Older Boomers: A new travel-focused piece highlights why many boomers are drawn to the Caribbean—more disposable income and a preference for lower-impact, experience-rich getaways. Air Connectivity Watch: BermudAir (including AnguillAir) announced a set of new US routes, raising questions about market fit and how the airline’s small fleet will scale service.

Caribbean Week in New York 2026: Anguilla’s Tourism Board delegation is in Manhattan (June 1–5) at the InterContinental Times Square under “One Caribbean: Infinite Experiences,” joining regional ministers and industry leaders to push connectivity, resilience, and deeper cultural tourism beyond the resort model. Local Tourism Presence: Minister Cardigan Connor and ATB officials (Jameel Rochester, Kenisha Hall-Prentice, Joleyne Robin-Williams) are representing Anguilla at CTO’s flagship forum. Fisheries & Blue Economy: The CRFM Ministerial Council met via teleconference to back aquaculture expansion, food security, climate/disaster resilience (including insurance), and progress against illegal fishing; Antigua and Barbuda’s Randy Baltimore was elected Chair, succeeding Anguilla’s Kyle Hodge. Aquaculture Tech Watch: Japan announced commercial, fully farmed eel sales—aimed at cutting reliance on wild juvenile eels—highlighting how farming breakthroughs can reshape supply and trade pressures. Travel Trend Angle: A separate roundup highlights why boomers keep choosing the Caribbean, pointing to affordability limits, higher spending power, and demand for low-impact “unwind” experiences.

Caribbean Tourism in Focus (Anguilla delegation): Anguilla’s Minister of Health, Tourism and Sports Cardigan Connor and Anguilla Tourist Board leaders are in New York for Caribbean Week 2026 (June 1–5) under “One Caribbean: Infinite Experiences,” aiming to strengthen partnerships and push Anguilla’s tourism brand. Regional Fisheries & Blue Economy: The CRFM Ministerial Council held its 20th regular meeting by teleconference, electing Antigua and Barbuda’s Randy Baltimore as Chair for 2026–2027, with priorities including aquaculture growth, food security, climate/disaster resilience via insurance, and progress against IUU fishing. Aquaculture Tech Watch: Japan reports a breakthrough with fully farmed eel production and trial sales, designed to cut reliance on wild juvenile eels—an important signal for sustainable seafood supply chains. Travel Tech/Connectivity Note: BermudAir (including AnguillAir) announced multiple new, unusual US routes, raising questions about how the small carrier will serve markets as it expands. Caribbean Week Context: CTO says the summit is a major regional strategy forum amid shifting travel preferences toward more cultural and regenerative experiences.

Caribbean Tourism in the Spotlight: Anguilla’s Tourist Board delegation is in New York for Caribbean Week 2026 (June 1–5) under “One Caribbean: Infinite Experiences,” with Minister Cardigan Connor and ATB leaders pushing regional partnerships and market growth. Regional Fisheries Policy: The CRFM Ministerial Council met by teleconference and tackled aquaculture expansion, food security, climate and disaster resilience via insurance, and progress against IUU fishing; Hon. Randy Baltimore (Antigua and Barbuda) was elected Chair for 2026–2027, taking over from Anguilla’s Kyle Hodge. Aquaculture Breakthrough: Japan moved toward full-cycle eel farming after successful commercial sales of fully farmed eels, aiming to cut pressure on wild juvenile eel stocks. Travel Tech & Connectivity Watch: BermudAir (including AnguillAir) announced a set of new, unusual US routes, signaling continued network reshaping that could affect regional travel options.

Caribbean Tourism Diplomacy: Anguilla’s Minister of Health, Tourism and Sports Cardigan Connor and Anguilla Tourist Board leaders are in New York for Caribbean Week 2026 (June 1–5) under “One Caribbean: Infinite Experiences,” joining regional ministers and industry partners to push connectivity, resilience, and deeper visitor experiences. Regional Fisheries Policy: The CRFM Ministerial Council met by teleconference to focus on aquaculture growth, food security, climate and disaster resilience (including insurance), and continued progress against illegal, unreported and unregulated fishing. Aquaculture Planning: Ministers adopted 19 resolutions and approved a new aquaculture plan at the 20th council meeting, signaling a coordinated push to scale farmed seafood. Global Tech in Food: Japan announced world-first fully farmed eel sales, using a breakthrough approach to mass-produce eel larvae and reduce pressure on wild stocks. Aviation Watch: BermudAir (including AnguillAir) unveiled a set of new, unusual nonstop/one-stop US routes, raising questions about network fit and timing for a small carrier.

Regional Fisheries & Blue Economy: The CRFM Ministerial Council met by teleconference on 3 June, electing Antigua and Barbuda’s Hon. Randy Baltimore as Chair for 2026–2027, with ministers focused on boosting aquaculture, improving food security, building climate/disaster resilience via insurance, and pushing progress against IUU fishing. Caribbean Tourism in New York: Caribbean Week in New York 2026 (June 1–5) is drawing a record turnout of tourism ministers and officials under “One Caribbean: Infinite Experiences,” aiming to strengthen resilience, improve connectivity, and present a unified regional front as travel preferences shift toward cultural and regenerative experiences. Air Connectivity Watch: BermudAir (including AnguillAir) announced a set of new nonstop and “one-stop” US routes, raising questions about market fit and how services will work given its small fleet. Medical Education Pathways: New Anglia University is weighing whether a UK-plus-international clinical route can replace six straight years abroad for future doctors. Aquaculture Breakthrough: Japan says it has achieved fully farmed eel production and trial sales, aiming to reduce reliance on wild eel stocks.

Regional Fisheries & Blue Economy: CRFM ministers met by teleconference on 3 June, electing Antigua and Barbuda’s Randy Baltimore as Chair for 2026–2027, and focusing on aquaculture expansion, food security, climate/disaster resilience via insurance, and continued progress against illegal, unreported and unregulated fishing. Caribbean Tourism in New York: Caribbean Week in New York 2026 (June 1–5) brought tourism ministers and officials from across the region, including Anguilla, together under “One Caribbean: Infinite Experiences” to boost market share, connectivity, and resilience amid shifting travel demand. Air Connectivity Watch: BermudAir (including AnguillAir) announced a set of new, unusual US routes, raising questions about how the small carrier will serve each market and whether the expansion is opportunity-driven or a bid to sustain growth. Aquaculture Tech Milestone: Japan moved toward full-cycle eel farming with commercial sales of fully farmed eels, aiming to cut reliance on wild juvenile eel supply. Governance & AI: Montserrat joined the 2026 Commons and Overseas Territories Speakers’ Conference in Cayman Islands, with sessions on using artificial intelligence in parliamentary operations and strengthening governance during emergencies.