Bahamas News

Small business license fees in the Grand Bahama Port Area may soon change

Published

6 years ago

January 30, 2018

#Bahamas, January 30, 2018 – Grand Bahama – Small business license fees may soon fall in line with the rest of The Bahamas, said Minister of State for Grand Bahama in the Office of the Prime Minister, Senator the Hon. J. Kwasi Thompson on Friday. Minister Thompson was addressing the Grand Bahama Chamber of Commerce Annual Installation of Officers and Directors 2017-2018.

Former GB Chamber President, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Finance, the Hon. K. Peter Turnquest, installed the new officers. Minister Thompson apologized for the absence of the Prime Minister, who was in Andros for the National Memorial Service for the plane crash victims. As the government believes in reform, modernization and transformation, soon after coming to office, an Ease of Doing Business Committee was appointed. They have made recommendations which are being reviewed and carried out.

“I commend the Deputy Prime Minister and his team for the improvements already made. It should also be noted that we intend for the changes to also apply to Freeport. As an example discussions have begun with the Grand Bahama Port Authority to express the Government’s desire to bring business license fees for very small businesses on the same level as the government’s fee, which is $100. It doesn’t seem right that a person wanting to start this type of business in the Port area has to pay sometimes 10 times as much than everyone else in the rest of The Bahamas. In addition we continue to work out arrangements for the One Stop Shop for Investment in Freeport.

“Small-and-medium sized Bahamian businesses are a critical part of our economy. These businesses employ thousands of Bahamians. They are critical for economic growth.

“To promote the ease of doing business for such enterprises, at the end of last year, after consultation with the Central Bank, the Government announced the relaxation of Exchange Controls on capital transactions, namely on capital (investment) and current account (trade) transactions.

“This was a reform long overdue. These changes come into effect as of 1 February 2018. Without prior reference to the Central Bank, Bahamian-owned businesses will be allowed to maintain operating deposit accounts with up to $100,000 in foreign currency at domestic commercial banks.

“These accounts will have to be funded exclusively from revenues earned in foreign currency. Central Bank approval will continue to be required for accounts with balances of more than $100,000 in foreign currency.”

Minister Thompson outlined another reform whereby upon application to the Central Bank, Bahamians and residents will be able to have foreign currency denominated deposits or investment assets outside of The Bahamas, or bring it back to the country and it remain in the same foreign currency.

“No penalties will be imposed on regularized accounts and investments. The owners of deposit facilities will be allowed to use the resources to finance domestic transactions, without restriction.

“Prohibitions will exist against either funding or augmenting these facilities with proceeds converted from Bahamian dollars.” He further stated, “Last year we passed the Commercial Enterprise Act, which promises enormous benefits to our economy.

“The intent of this Act is to offer incentives to Bahamian and international investors who establish businesses in the Bahamas, which will help to diversify the economy, and to create higher paying jobs and long-term job securit“Under this legislation, investors in captive insurance, reinsurance, arbitration, wealth management, computer programming, maritime trade, nanotechnology, biomedical industries, data storage, call centers, software design and writing will be given a number of concessions and incentives.

“Another reform that has already been announced is the creation of an independent board to review applications for work permits and citizenship. This will allow for less interference and more openness in the process of obtaining citizenship.”

The Minister said revitalizing Grand Bahama has been a priority of the government since the General Election in May, 2017, and stating that there is a long way to go, he added that the road to recovery has begun.

“To boost growth and employment we must stimulate domestic and foreign investment, as well as opportunities for large-scale and small- and medium-sized businesses.”

Listing some of the things done in an attempt to boost the local economy, Minister Thompson said the government negotiated the completion of a Letter of Intent on the sale of the Grand Lucayan Hotel, and is currently working diligently to complete the sale of the Grand Lucayan and Memories property.

“After they are reopened, the economy of Grand Bahama will improve significantly, including with a tremendous increase in employment and related business and economic opportunities.

“We also successfully negotiated with Bahamas Paradise on the return of the Grand Celebration, and the introduction of a new vessel, the Grand Classica, which will bring additional stopover visitors and more opportunities to Grand Bahama in April. We learned the painful effects of not having the Celebration vessel for a few months and therefore looking forward to the increased benefits of having both vessels.

“In conjunction with Ministry of Tourism, and our Minister of Finance DPM we also negotiated an airlift agreement with Sunwing, and now have the return of Vacation Express. It has been announced that a total of eight non-stop flights departing from various US cities, will begin their flight schedules in May 2018.”

Scheduled to begin in May are flights from Detroit, Chicago, Nashville, Pittsburgh, Newark, Baltimore, Cincinnati, and Dallas. These will be operated by Swift Air LLC., and the Ministry of Tourism projects a potential 16,800 passengers. Additionally, negotiations ongoing with the “Ginn Property” in West End, along with a new investment in East End involving an oil refinery. This announcement, said the Minister, will be made at the appropriate time.

Going over the advancements made in the area of technology, Minister Thompson told Chamber members that a Grand Bahama Technology Hub Steering Committee has been formed to establish Grand Bahama as a technology hub. Carnival Corporation is already assembling their Ocean Medallion Concierge System, and Grand Bahamians have been hired and are being trained.

“The Bahamas is also currently developing programs for block chain-based solutions, fin-tech and crypto-currency companies, and we intend to promote block chain as a sub-industry within ICT.”

Touting joint efforts between the government and the Chamber, Minister Thompson acknowledged the government’s summer job program where some 500 young people were placed in local businesses. There was also the Business to Business Initiative which began on September 28, 2017 designed to provide business opportunities to budding entrepreneurs.

“The initiative exposed existing entrepreneurs and small businesses to opportunities which exist already at the larger industrial companies. The first to participate were the Grand Bahama Shipyard and Buckeye. We intend to continue this initiative with other major companies.

“The Apiary Project began on 24 October which will help 30 young people to enter the honey production business here in Grand Bahama. These young people began training on the 2^nd January 2018.

Each participant will receive a stipend during a 14-week training program, and will have access to funding and mentorship from Bahamas Development Bank.

“We look forward to your partnership with the our office and Deputy Prime Minister, Port Authority and the University of the Bahamas for the launch of the Small Business Development Center, which would provide support and research resources for entrepreneurs. We have also been most grateful for your support in our GB Micro and Small Business Economic Empowerment and Entrepreneurial Incentive Program launched last year.”

Minister Thompson said they will be calling on the business community once again on February 17^th at the Ministry of Labour Job fair, where he hopes they will not only participate, but hire as many people as possible.

In closing, the Minister said, “The Chamber continues to be a great partner and [I] look forward to an even closer relationship. We have a talented creative and vibrant private sector. I believe you have what we need to reignite Grand Bahama’s economy. Within you lies the talent, ability, resources, and capacity we need for success. We as a government must create the environment that will motivate you to expand, invest and progress.

“I encourage you to seriously look at reinvesting, renovating, expanding, reshaping, re-tooling, and rehiring. Fixing Grand Bahama will not be easy or quick but I believe we all have what it takes and I stress, we all.”

By: Robyn Adderley

Photo caption: Senator the Hon. Kwasi Thompson.

(BIS Photo/Lisa Davis)

Bahamas News

Freeport Business Expo to connect Grand Bahama businesses and entrepreneurs to expert resources

Published

1 day ago

April 27, 2024

Deandrea Hamilton

Grand Bahama Port Authority, Limited

April 29, 2024 – Freeport, The Bahamas – In line with its mission to create a stronger, more connected Freeport economy, the Grand Bahama Port Authority, Limited (GBPA) is pleased to share details of the upcoming Freeport Business Expo: Tourism Edition, taking place on Thursday, May 2, 2024 at the Grand Lucayan Convention Center in Grand Bahama.

“As the GBPA continues its work to attract investors to Freeport, we offer this showcase of local and international businesses offering services and opportunities to potential and existing licensees,” stated Ian Rolle, GBPA President. “This Expo will not only connect unique international service providers with Bahamian entrepreneurs aiming to introduce new tourist attractions, but also bring together financing institutions to support Bahamian-owned start-ups and existing businesses in the industry.”

The emphasis on tourism at the 2024 Expo ensures that those in tourism-focused businesses are certain to benefit. The event will offer opportunities to meet potential business partners, gain insight on financial opportunities, engage with leaders in workshops and one-on-one sessions, and get answers on starting a Freeport business and obtaining a GBPA license.

“We regularly host community business expos,” said Glendia Sweeting, Manager of Quality Assurance and Special Projects. “But we recognize the significant benefit of an expo focused on enhancing tourism business offerings through connecting international service providers and Bahamian entrepreneurs. We have more than thirty local and national exhibitors taking part on May 2^nd, along with several international service providers.”

Multiple investment projects currently in progress and planned in the city of Freeport is creating anticipation for existing and potential entrepreneurs and this expo is geared towards preparing them for these opportunities. “Grand Bahama is going to experience a significant growth spurt in the next one to three years. I would strongly encourage everybody who wants to get involved in business to look at Grand Bahama as one of the top choices, especially over the next three years,” said Mr. Rolle.

The Expo opens on Wednesday, May 1^st with a welcome reception from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. A full day of learning and networking opportunities follows on Thursday, May 2^nd. GBPA’s partners in the Freeport Business Expo include:

Grand Bahama Island Promotion Board
Ministry for Grand Bahama
Grand Bahama Chamber of Commerce
Ministry of Tourism
Bahamas Immigration
Bahamas Customs
Five Star Shipping Company
Viva Wyndham Fortuna
Bahamas Air
Grand Lucayan Hotel

Registration for access to the Expo’s exhibitors is free, and all-access passes are available for purchase. Event details and registration information may be found at freeportbusinessexpo.com.

Bahamas News

Pacesetting Cohort of Eleuthera Residents Graduate from Leading Light Programme

Published

2 days ago

April 26, 2024

Shanieka

Office of University Relations

22^nd April 2024

Eleuthera, THE BAHAMAS – A pioneering cohort of 43 Eleuthera residents graduated from the University of The Bahamas’ (UB’s) free Leading Light Programme, sponsored by Disney Cruise Line (DCL) on Friday 19^th April, 2024.

The programme, launched in February 2024 and delivered through UB’s Continuing Education and Lifelong Learning (CeLEARN), offers a series of courses to ensure Eleuthera has a proficient workforce capable of delivering unparalleled hospitality leadership as the island experiences a sharp growth in tourism arrivals. The graduation ceremony was held at the Eleuthera Chamber of Commerce Business Hub in Rock Sound, Eleuthera.

The courses focused on tourism and hospitality skills, leadership development and effective communication. They were taught by UB faculty and included guest lecturers such as former Director General of Tourism, Minister of Tourism and Secretary General of the Caribbean Tourism Organization Vincent Vanderpool Wallace and veteran hospitality professor Dr. Lincoln Marshall.

“This programme represents the mission-driven collaboration and skills-building that University of The Bahamas is committed to fostering, supported by an important industry partner like Disney Cruise Line,” noted UB President (Acting) Janyne Hodder. “Given the importance of the tourism industry to our nation, we know how vital it is that we continually equip our workforce with diverse expertise to uphold our reputation for excellence in hospitality. We are grateful for this collaboration with Disney Cruise Line which has facilitated programme delivery in Eleuthera, enabling UB to broaden access to much sought-after professional development.”

As training and skills development programming grows across the island of Eleuthera, the Leading Light Programme experience was tailored to be free of charge, accessible and conclude with participants earning a UB certification that signals the high standard of education for which the University is recognized. Students came from all walks of life and traveled from as far away as Hatchet Bay in the North, and Bannerman Town in the South to Rock Sound for classes. Programme participants also received a stipend to defray the cost of commuting and other personal expenses.

Nora Smith, a manager at the picturesque Jack’s Bay Club, yearned to increase her skills.

“I would recommend this programme to anyone because The Bahamas is known as a tourism destination. Taking this course in tourism and hospitality, can help me to go far in dealing with tourists daily in my workplace,” she said.

Graduate Javonne Richards appreciated the comprehensive curriculum and the ease of access to the courses that were offered.

“This programme not only fills a gap in our Eleuthera education offerings, but also equips participants with the tools and knowledge needed to thrive in dynamic work environments,” he noted.

Director General of Tourism Mrs. Latia Duncombe, who delivered the keynote address at the graduation ceremony, shared three essential qualities for successful tourism professionals: energy, creativity and a welcoming personality.

“Your fresh perspectives and innovative ideas are invaluable to creating unique, unforgettable customer experiences,” said Mrs. Duncombe. “While technology such as Artificial Intelligence, also have a role to play, human interaction remains essential.”

Minister of Works and Family Island Affairs and Member of Parliament for Central and South Eleuthera the Honourable Clay Sweeting commended the partnership that is supporting community growth.

“I am proud of every Eleutheran who came from near and far to take advantage of this opportunity,” said Minister Sweeting. “As Eleuthera’s economy continues to grow, especially in Central and South Eleuthera, I encourage more corporate partners to invest in the local community in innovative ways, like the University of The Bahamas and Disney Cruise Line have, so that we can continue to strengthen our local communities.”

Two additional cohorts will be offered this year, increasing the pipeline of Eleutherans who are optimally skilled as hospitality and tourism ambassadors. Registration for the summer programme will open on May 17 and the second cycle of courses begins June 17, 2024. Fall programme dates are September 23 through November 29, 2024. To learn more about the Leading Light Programme and how to enroll, please email atynes@eleutherahambercommerce.com.

Bahamas News

Royal Caribbean to open Royal Beach Club on Paradise Island in 2025

Published

2 days ago

April 26, 2024

Shanieka

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

April 24, 2024

By LINDSAY THOMPSON

Bahamas Information Services

NASSAU, The Bahamas – The Government entered into a Heads of Agreement with Royal Caribbean International, followed by a Ground Breaking Ceremony for the construction of Royal Beach Club on Paradise Island, at an estimated $165 million.

The agreement was signed on Monday, April 22, 2024 during a press conference at the Office of the Prime Minister.

According to Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Tourism, Investments and Aviation the Hon. Chester Cooper, the project will further enhance the tourism product, on the heels of an estimated 9 million visitor arrivals.

He deemed it “an eventful day” with a reliable partner in RCI of more than 50 years with The Bahamas, and the continued confidence that investors have in the tourism product and economy.

He said it is a partnership with “excellence experiences” as he delighted in the fact that there will be more for the 25,000 cruise ship guests in port.

Also on hand for the activities to seal the agreement were Prime Minister and Minister of Finance the Hon. Philip Davis; Minister of Health and Wellness, the Hon. Dr. Michael Darville; Minister of Energy and Transport, the Hon. JoBeth Coleby-Davis; Attorney General and Minister of Legal Affairs, Senator the Hon. Ryan Pinder; Director of Investments Phylicia Woods-Hanna; executives of Royal Caribbean International and Royal Caribbean Group, and other officials.

“With the signing of this Heads of Agreement for the development of the Royal Beach Club on Paradise Island, we embark on a $165 million project to further enhance the vitality of our tourism product,” the prime minister said.

Spearheaded by RBC Paradise Island Ltd. and PDI Paradise Ltd., subsidiaries of Royal Caribbean Cruises Ltd., the project will galvanize entertainment and recreational offerings for Bahamians and visitors alike.

The master plan for the Royal Beach Club includes pools, cabanas, and Bahamian boutiques, offering an unparalleled on-shore experience for visitors.

“This development will prove to be a monumental step forward for Bahamian inclusion in major tourism projects that will serve as a model for others to emulate,” the prime minister said.

The prime minister then underscored the importance of what the project would mean for Bahamians in the broader scope of things.

An estimated 200 jobs will be created for Bahamians. However, an opportunity is being provided for shared ownership in this development.

It is anticipated that PDI Paradise Ltd. will hold at least 51% of the shares in the Royal Beach Club, with the remaining 49 % shares being allocated to the National Investment Fund for the benefit of Bahamians.

“Through this partnership, we will provide new employment and economic opportunities for this nation. Local businesses will see their share of opportunities as well. There will be Bahamian boutiques creating avenues for small business ownership,” the prime minister said.

The project will also encompass a joint venture with a Bahamian-owned entity for the operation of a water taxi business; it will provide transportation options for guests of the Royal Beach Club, as well as other attractions in Nassau Harbour – enhancing accessibility while creating additional avenues for economic growth within the community.

“Ultimately, this project will largely be run by Bahamians, owned by the Bahamian people, and supported by Bahamian businesses.

“When we talk about the need to ensure that major tourism projects are primarily for the benefit of the Bahamian people, these are the kinds of opportunities that we are talking about,” the prime minister said.

He observed that the Royal Beach Club represents the latest successful chapter in the story of Paradise Island’s growth as a tourism mecca. Initial negotiations for the project began under the previous administration. Royal Club Beach is expected to open in 2025.

“By signing today’s agreement, we add another world-class experience to our tourism offerings. And even more importantly, we take a bold step toward greater Bahamian empowerment in the tourism industry. This is our nation, and we must ensure that, first and foremost, our service industries serve us,” the prime minister said.

He concluded, “We are more optimistic than ever before about our economic prospects with tourism leading the way as our number one industry that continues to grow at a record-breaking pace.

At the ground breaking site just west of the Atlantis Resort, officials tilled the soil, marking the beginning of the construction process.

Jason Liberty, president, and CEO of Royal Caribbean Group said that events regarding the agreement “symbolize partnership, momentum, and continued economic development for so many Bahamian entrepreneurs and the entire community.

“We are grateful to our partners for their support, especially the Bahamian government, who stand with us here today in celebration of what is to come.”