News
“The rising cost of inflation and its impact on healthy living in TCI”
#TurksandCaicos, January 19, 2022 – The cost of living in TCI has grown exponentially over the years and continues to rise. For some, the impact can be measured by some of the challenges faced with trying to live a healthy lifestyle.
Although healthy living for some may have different interpretations, the reality is, it goes beyond just physical exercises. It starts with eating healthy..but for many in TCI, constraints with time, money, transportation, etc. make good nutrition seem out of reach. 
Like many other countries, economic factors like income level and high cost of goods, are also a major factor for us.
While great progress has been made as it pertains to the bounce back of the economy from Covid-19 impact, there are some uncertainties around the rising cost of inflation particularly as it relates to food prices.
With inflation at this level, eating healthy on a budget could be extremely hard for some, especially when you’re faced with constrained resources.
Grocery stores prices are normally one of the tell-tale signs for rising inflation. Although price increases are usually “transitory” in nature, this wave of increases appears to sticking around for far too long.
In some cases, you may find the cost of certain goods more reasonable at select stores, however, who has the time to shop around at 2-3 stores looking for the best deal on every single item?
To prove a point, I decided to analyze consumer food prices on five of some of the most basic produce items that are essential for everyday healthy eating. Items such as lettuce, tomatoes, oranges, apples and avocados.
My findings revealed a shocking differences in the fluctuation of prices between just two locations in Grand Turk and two in Provo.
Excluding sale promotion days, in Provo, a 3lb bag of Apples can range anywhere from $5.99 to $8.50, tomatoes could range anywhere from $3.69 to $3.99 per pound, a pack of romaine lettuce could range anywhere from $6.55 to $7.50, a bag of 6-10 oranges could range anywhere from $5.99 to 7.99. A single avocado can range anywhere from $3.59 to $3.95.
In Grand Turk, a 3lb bag of Apples can range anywhere from $6.99 to $8.99, tomatoes could range anywhere from $3.69 to $4.50 per pound, a pack of romaine lettuce could range anywhere from $8.50 to $9.50, a bag of 6-10 oranges could range anywhere from $6.99 to $8.99. A single avocado can range anywhere from $3.73 to $4.25.
I have also found that the unhealthy snacks and drinks were relatively cheap compared to the healthy snacks which are placed front and center upon entering the stores.
With prices at this level which has been for quite some time now, some families are finding it incredibly difficult to manage their food budget. Consumers with limited disposable income are forced to make difficult choices in order to stretch their dollars.
Such as, do I spend the money on healthy foods or do I purchase a package of hotdogs and sugar cookies which will be more affordable especially for large families.
According to the International Food Policy Research Institute (IFPRI) Poor diets are the number one risk factor in the global burden of disease: they account for one in five deaths globally.
Although on a much smaller scale, our mortality rate relative to poor diet is now a greater contributor to these global statistics and should be part of a broader debate.
So the million dollar question is, how do we in the Turks and Caicos Islands, alter relative prices on healthy foods to achieve better dietary and nutrition outcomes for the masses?
It won’t be easy, but it can be done.
The USA, which is one of our main trading partners, is currently experiencing supply chain shortages on select products. This is driven in part due to a myriad of labor challenges. As a result, we are starting to experience the trickle down effects.
Sadly, until this goes away, consumer prices in TCI will probably remain high and will only be further precipitated by this ongoing pandemic. So what are some real solutions to this growing problem? 
In my opinion, it’s high time the Caribbean countries forge an alliance and build stronger regional trading partnerships with each other.
At the end of the day, it all boils down to purchasing power along with supply and demand. Major economic countries like the US and China thrives on this.
Case in point; the Dominican Republic which is approximately 200 miles away from TCI, and is currently a large producer of bananas and other fruits and vegetables. Many of their suppliers would rather deal with the USA or other large countries because of their purchasing power.
So in essence, the same products that are being produced in the DR, is now being shipped another 800 miles away to the USA, before making its way back to us. Because of the logistics, this helps to drive up our cost of goods.
The quote on quote “petro dollar”, which the US dollar is referred as when oil subsidies are traded on the market, gives them stronger buying powers.
Likewise, TCI will also be in a unique position to negotiate lower prices with the Caribbean alliances because of our use of the US currency.
Rather than having locally grown products from these Caribbean countries shipped to the USA or other countries and then to us, logistically, it would make good economic sense to forge these regional partnerships.
Also, notwithstanding the Consumer Protection Ordinance that came into force in TCI since 2019, it does not address the issue of price control or price gouging in our country.
As noted in my analysis, on any given day, you will find the cost of certain products could vary significantly between different grocery stores on the islands.
With the limited number of grocery stores and the population size on Grand Turk, Salt Cay and the lower Caicos Islands, these residents will always be at a disadvantage.
The long and short of my article is, in order to combat what appears to be a never ending battle with inflation, we have got to get serious about the development and production of local agriculture.
Furthermore, let’s put in place proper government controlled checks and balance program for better price control and to prevent price gouging.
This may require hiring additional auditors to police over-priced or missed priced consumer goods and to ensure businesses are passing along the discounts and duty free savings to consumers.
Ed Forbes
A Concerned Citizen of Grand Turk
News
The Turks and Caicos Islands Set Positive Start to 2026 with Increase in January Stayover Arrivals
PROVIDENCIALES, TURKS AND CAICOS ISLANDS – (February 25th, 2026) – The Turks and Caicos Islands began 2026 on a positive note, with stayover arrivals in January surpassing the same period in 2025.
Preliminary figures indicate that 56,830 stayover visitors arrived in January 2026, representing a two percent increase year-on-year. The steady growth continues the positive momentum experienced at the close of 2025.
Mr. Paul Pennicook, Interim CEO Consultant, attributed the encouraging performance to new collaboration with tour operator partners as well as increased airlift from key source markets.
“We anticipated a strong January performance following the growth recorded in November and December. The winter season has traditionally been a robust period for the Turks and Caicos Islands, and this year that strength has been further supported by enhanced collaboration with partners and expanded airlift from Canada and the United States We are cautiously optimistic about maintaining this upward trajectory in the weeks and months ahead.
Cruise Sector
In cruise, preliminary figures show 122,935 cruise passenger arrivals in January, reflecting a 15 percent decrease compared to January 2025.
The decline is attributed to a reduction in cruise calls during the month. A total of 33 vessels called on Grand Turk in January, seven fewer than during the corresponding period last year.
Marketing Shows
As part of its ongoing efforts to position the Turks and Caicos Islands as a premier luxury destination, Experience Turks and Caicos has been actively participating in the Travel & Adventure Shows across several major cities in the United States.
The destination has already been showcased in Washington, D.C., New York, and Chicago, with Fort Lauderdale and Denver scheduled in the coming weeks.
Public Relations Manager Laura Dowrich represented the Turks and Caicos Islands alongside the destination’s U.S. marketing agency, ABA Global.
Beaches Turks & Caicos – Stone Creek Travels
“One of the most encouraging takeaways from these shows is that the Turks and Caicos Islands is indeed on travellers’ radar. We met many visitors who shared fond memories of their time here, others who already have trips booked and were seeking recommendations on activities and dining, and many more who aspire to visit. It was a pleasure highlighting our multi-island destination and sharing the many experiences that make the Turks and Caicos Islands truly special,” said Ms. Dowrich.
Awards & Recognition
Building on a stellar year of accolades in 2025, the Turks and Caicos Islands has begun 2026 with additional international recognition.
The destination earned a Gold Badge in the U.S. News & World Report rankings, placing #5 in Best Family Vacations in the Caribbean and #5 in Best Beaches in the World. In the USA Today 10Best Readers’ Choice Awards, Grand Turk was ranked #10 among the Best Caribbean Islands to Visit.
About Experience Turks and Caicos
Middle Caicos Dragon Cay Resort
Experience Turks and Caicos is the official destination marketing and management organisation (DMMO) for the Turks and Caicos Islands. The organisation is committed to positioning the destination as a premier, sustainable luxury tourism hub. By leveraging smart tools, data-driven strategies, and stakeholder collaboration, Experience Turks and Caicos focuses on enhancing the visitor experience and fostering long-term industry success.
About the Turks and Caicos Islands
The Turks and Caicos Islands consist of two island groups in the Lucayan Archipelago—the larger Caicos Islands and the smaller Turks Islands. Home to some of the world’s most pristine beaches, including the award-winning Grace Bay Beach, the destination is renowned for its crystal-clear turquoise waters, luxury accommodations, and rich cultural heritage. Each island and cay offer a unique experience:
- Providenciales boasts world-class resorts, fine dining, and high-end tourism offerings.
- Grand Turk serves as the vibrant hub for cruise tourism and historical exploration.
- The sister islands provide a gateway to nature, adventure, and authentic local culture.
Recognised as the world’s best-kept secret, the Turks and Caicos Islands offer effortless luxury, with seamless connectivity via direct flights from major cities in the United States, Canada, and the United Kingdom.
Photo Captions:
Grand Turk – slow travel with us
North Caicos – Correy Forbes
South Caicos Sail Rock
Providenciales, Turks and Caicos Islands – Wednesday, 25 February 2026: Staff of the Department of Disaster Management and Emergencies (DDME) participated in a one‑day Professional Staff Development Workshop on Thursday, 19th February 2026. The session was facilitated by former DDME Director (2011–2021) and current Permanent Secretary of the Governor’s Office, Dr. Virginia Clerveaux.
The in-house workshop was organised by the DDME Training Unit, to focus on the National Disaster Management Framework, strengthening staff understanding of their roles and responsibilities within disaster management. The session also aimed to enhance the effectiveness of the National Emergency Operations Centre (NEOC) and reinforce inter‑agency coordination.
Drawing on her extensive experience in disaster management in the Turks and Caicos Islands, as well as several deployments to CDEMA member states including Haiti, The Bahamas, and Jamaica, Dr. Clerveaux provided practical insights that reinforced key concepts and clarified operational expectations. Staff members actively participated in discussions and shared recommendations to improve sub‑committee performance and overall departmental efficiency.
To support learning retention, the workshop incorporated pre‑ and post‑assessments, enabling participants to evaluate their understanding and track improvements.
Acting Director of DDME, Mr. Kevaun Lucas stated: “Investing in the continued development of our team is essential to strengthening national resilience. This and future planned workshops will help to reinforce our commitment to building a highly skilled, well‑coordinated workforce capable of leading and supporting disaster management efforts across the Turks and Caicos Islands. I am proud of the team’s engagement and encouraged by the meaningful contributions they made throughout the session.”
This Professional Staff Development Workshop forms part of DDME’s ongoing commitment to enhancing internal capacity, strengthening operational coordination and improving overall departmental synergy as the agency continues to advance national preparedness and response capabilities.
Photo Captions:
Caribbean News
Liberty Caribbean Supports Regional Forum on AI, Cyber Resilience and Digital Inclusion
Port of Spain, TRINIDAD & TOBAGO (February 24, 2026) — Liberty Caribbean, the operators of Flow, Liberty Business and BTC, recently served as Gold-Level Partner of the two-day Trinidad and Tobago Internet Governance Forum (TTIGF), themed “The Innovation Paradox – Balancing Progress with Responsibility and Resilience”.
The Digital Divide is of particular interest to Liberty Caribbean and is being addressed through its Charitable Foundation across the region. Low broadband penetration in the Caribbean contributes to diminished opportunities for individuals, communities, and local economies, but with the support of funding partners, this gap can be addressed through a comprehensive programme – JUMP – that focuses on providing access, devices, and digital skills.
“Liberty Caribbean was proud to serve as Gold-Level Partner of the TTIGF because the conversations taking place here shape key digital
policies for multiple stakeholders,” said Simone Martin-Sulgan, Vice President and General Manager, Flow Trinidad.
“As technology accelerates at an unprecedented pace, we must ensure that innovation strengthens our societies rather than fragments them. The theme, ‘The Innovation Paradox – Balancing Progress with Responsibility and Resilience,’ speaks directly to the work we do every day: building networks that are not only fast and reliable, but secure, inclusive and future-ready.”
Across the Caribbean, the digital divide remains one of the most pressing barriers to equitable growth. Low broadband penetration limits access to education, entrepreneurship and essential services, and that is why we are deeply committed to closing this gap.
Through the Liberty Caribbean Charitable Foundation and initiatives like the JUMP Programme, the company is expanding access to technology, affordable connectivity and digital skills training so that individuals and communities are empowered to participate fully in the digital economy.
Martin-Sulgan further stated “at Liberty Caribbean, we believe progress and responsibility must move in lock step. By investing in resilient networks, inclusive programmes and trusted partnerships, we are helping to build a Caribbean that is innovative, secure and prepared for the opportunities ahead.”
Topics covered during the Forum, with over 140 participants, included “Securing Critical Infrastructure”, Integrating AI into Digital Transformation”, “The Digital Divide”, The Human Cost of Innovation – Mental Health and Well-being in the Digital Age’, and AI, Cyber Resilience and Regional Innovation”.
Focused on the underlying mandate of the Conference theme thought leaders, innovators, policymakers, technologists, researchers, and community stakeholders were invited to explore how countries can evolve boldly without compromising values or long-term stability.
Photo Caption:
TTIGF – l-r Darren Campo, Regulatory & Compliance Officer; Yolande Agard-Simmons, Senior Manager Communications; and Kevon Swift, Senior Manager Government and Regulatory Affairs of Flow Trinidad in attendance at the Post Event Mixer at Caribbean Telecommunications Union’s Head Office in St Clair, Port of Spain
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News6 days agoDDME Staff Strengthen Disaster Management Capacity Through Professional Development Workshop
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Caribbean News7 days agoLiberty Caribbean Supports Regional Forum on AI, Cyber Resilience and Digital Inclusion
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News6 days agoThe Turks and Caicos Islands Set Positive Start to 2026 with Increase in January Stayover Arrivals