Panama Canal Crunch for CARICOM Imports: The CARICOM Private Sector Organization warns that Panama Canal transit caps tied to low rainfall and El Niño risk could expose US$8–10 billion of annual CARICOM imports (about a quarter to a third of non-fuel imports) to higher landed costs and thinner inventories into 2027, with carriers already posting surcharges. Maritime Safety Probe in St. Lucia: Commissioners have been sworn in to investigate the July 18 Anse Cochon collision, including retired Justice Mario Michel as chair, tasked with a full inquiry into the Ocean Angel and Cazorla Jr. St. Lucia Jobs Update: The unemployment rate fell to 10.1% in Q2 2026, down from 12.1% in Q1, with youth unemployment also improving. OECS Digital Skills Push: Applications for the OECS Advanced Digital Skills Scholarship open Sept. 10 and run to Sept. 20, offering advanced training across AI, cybersecurity, cloud, data and more. Climate Resilience Funding (Bahamian-led): The CABRIC programme opens grant opportunities for coastal resilience projects, with small, medium and large grant bands and a focus on agriculture, fisheries and nature-based coastal solutions. Local Industry & Exports (Omni): Omni Industries targets 10% of revenue from exports within five years and is pursuing new Caribbean supply deals, including baking trays for Trinidad. Tourism Training for Service Quality: The tourism ministry rolls out targeted vendor and small-property training to lift visitor experience standards. Music Industry Representation: Saint Lucian calypso, soca and Dennery stakeholders back a legally recognised group to represent artists and industry professionals. Agriculture Value-Chain Upgrades: Black Bay Farmers Cooperative begins packhouse upgrades to strengthen export-ready fresh produce handling and storage.