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
Providenciales, Turks and Caicos Islands – May 14th, 2024 – The Turks and Caicos Islands Government and Molo Hotel Group reached a pivotal juncture on Monday, May 13th, 2024, with the ceremonial signing of a development agreement at the Premier’s Office on Providenciales. The agreement, which received official Cabinet approval on March 13th, 2024, signifies a steadfast commitment to advancing the economic landscape of the Turks and Caicos Islands.
Molo Hotel Group is a family-owned business, renowned for its distinguished portfolio of high-quality hotels worldwide. The
development initiative encompasses the construction of three distinct IHG branded hotels: InterContinental Turks and Caicos, Kimpton Turks and Caicos and Hotel Indigo Turks and Caicos. Scheduled for completion by 2027, each resort boasts a distinctive design from luxury to laidback sophistication spanning across the shores of Grace Bay Beach.
Kimpton Turks and Caicos – an epitome of luxury lifestyle living, will feature 192 guest rooms including three outdoor pools, a luxury spa and a fitness center. Additionally, seven dining options ranging from a beachfront restaurant to a rooftop bar.
Adjacent to the Kimpton, InterContinental Turks and Caicos will offer 59 classic luxury suites with panoramic ocean views. Mirroring its counterpart, this resort will offer an array of dining options and upscale facilities.
Steps away from the Intercontinental and Kimpton resorts, Hotel Indigo Turks and Caicos will embrace a sense of community and contemporary elegance, offering 56 bedrooms. The resort will feature an onsite restaurant, lobby bar, outdoor pool, and fitness room.
Beyond the realm of hospitality, this development agreement underscores the government’s commitment to fostering economic growth and enhancing employment opportunities in the Turks and Caicos Islands. Molo is partnering with the Turks and Caicos Islands Community College (TCICC) to actively promote hospitality as a career choice and support in developing training programs, career fairs, seminars, workshops, and events to raise awareness about hospitality careers. Molo has committed to provide employment and apprentice opportunities to TCICC students and provide mentoring and practical on property training to students.
The signing event was graced by Hon. Charles Washington Missick, Premier of the Turks and Caicos Islands, Hon. Jamell Robinson, Deputy Premier, Hon. Kyle Knowles, Minister of Public Safety and Utilities, Hon. Rachel Taylor, Minister of Education, Youth, Sports and Culture, Łukasz and Marcin Slominski, Owners of Molo, Ross Morrow, Managing Director Molo, Arik Kono, Vice President Upscale Development for IHG, Dr. Candice Williams, President and CEO of the Turks and Caicos Islands Community College, Angela Musgrove, InvestTCI CEO, Dr. Barbara Ambrister, Chairperson of the Turks and Caicos Islands Community College, Dr. Delores Stapleton- Harris, Vice President of Academic, Vocational and Student Affairs for the Turks and Caicos Islands Community College, Mr. Kevin Baxter, Dean of Technical Vocational Education Training (TVET) and Sheryl McLaughlin, InvestTCI Investment Services Executive.
Commenting on the development agreement, Premier, Hon. Misick, stated “The Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) signing of
IHG/Molo Hotels is a significant step towards a sustainable future for hospitality in the Turks and Caicos Islands. Three hotels, Kimpton, Intercontinental, and Hotel Indigo, will be introduced, enhancing our tourism product and creating employment opportunities.”
He further added, “Partnerships with the Turks and Caicos Islands Community College and Turks and Caicos Islands Sports Commission are underway, demonstrating the Government’s commitment to developing human capital and elevating tourism offerings. This project will bring economic growth, embrace local talent, and enrich our economy.”
Additionally, Mrs. Angela Musgrove, CEO of Invest Turks and Caicos Islands, emphasized “This collaboration confirms our commitment to fostering economic growth and prosperity within our country. We have worked closely with Molo Hotel Group, and we are confident that this transformative project will further position the Turks and Caicos Islands as a premier destination for travel and investment. Much to our delight, it will also provide opportunities for engagement with our Community College and small business community.”
The Government of the Turks and Caicos Islands, operating through its primary Investment Promotion
Agency, Invest Turks and Caicos Islands, remains committed to attracting and facilitating Foreign Direct Investments to the country by providing a comprehensive suite of services. Through strategic initiatives and targeted promotion, the agency catalyzes sustainable development, driving innovation and small business opportunities across various sectors of the economy.
#TurksandCaicos, May 13, 2024 – Detectives of the Serious Crime Unit of the Royal Turks and Caicos Islands Police Force have
charged a man who allegedly stole a vehicle.
The accused, DANVANTE BRISCO, 30, of Kew Town, Providenciales, was charged with:
- One Count: Robbery
- One Count: Taking Motor Vehicle Without Authority
- One Count: Using Offensive Weapon to cause fear
Mr. BRISCO appeared in court today (May 13 ) and was granted bail of $7500.00 with one surety.
The matter was adjourned to July 05 for a Sufficiency Hearing.
#TurksandCaicos, May 13, 2024 – A 20-year-old Dock Yard male appeared in court today (May 13th) charged with a series of firearm-related offences.
The accused, JAMES SIMON, was denied bail and remanded into custody pending a Sufficiency Hearing scheduled for July 05th, 2024.
Mr. SIMON faces the following charges:
- One Count: Robbery;
- One Count: Gang Membership
- One Count: Possession of a Firearm for the Benefit of a Gang
- One Count: Possession of Ammunition for the Benefit of a Gang.
The charges against Mr. Simon followed investigations by officers of the Royal Turks and Caicos Islands Police Force into a robbery at the parking lot of a Casino where three males robbed a victim.
Additionally, Mr. Simon is charged with the following offences, having been arrested on May 02nd, 2024, along South Dock Road.
- One Count: Possession of a Firearm
- One Count: Possession of Ammunition
- One Count: Unlawful Entry
Officers also charged a teenage minor who was in the company of Mr. Simon on May 02nd with One Count of UNLAWFUL ENTRY.
The accused, seventeen and from Kew Town, Providenciales, pleaded guilty and will be sentenced on May 20th.
-
Health1 week agoAstraZeneca withdraws COVID vaccines after millions took their jabs
-
Caribbean News6 days agoBelize, Jamaica and St. Vincent and the Grenadines eliminate mother-to-child transmission of HIV and Syphilis
-
TCI News5 days agoEquity in Energy says Bahamas Energy & Transport Minister in legislative roll out
-
TCI News5 days agoFamily of 16 tourist claims negligence in Grand Turk jet ski death; Coroner’s Court hearing evidence
-
Caribbean News6 days agoMagnetic Media attends Caribbean Media Summit, in focus AI in Journalism
-
TCI News3 days agoAMERICAN MOTHER AND DAUGHTER ALLEGEDLY ARRESTED FOR TWO BULLETS
-
world news7 days agoElectricity Access for 600 Million a goal of UN Sustainability Week
-
Bahamas News5 days agoThe Bahamas Successfully Hosts Its Fourth World Athletics Relays