Regional Shipping & Cost of Living: CARICOM leaders in St. Lucia agreed to cut intra-regional cargo costs by using Trinidad and Tobago’s state vessel as a temporary cargo ferry “proof of concept,” while a private-sector plan for a permanent regional ferry system is developed over the next year. CARICOM Governance: Trinidad and Tobago’s dispute over the CARICOM Secretary-General reappointment was referred to the Caribbean Court of Justice for an advisory opinion, with Dr Carla Barnett’s tenure left intact during the process. Food, Trade & Consumer Protection: Leaders backed measures to ease the cost of living, including adjusting common external tariffs on basic foods and pushing consumer affordability steps, with Barbados Prime Minister Mia Mottley urging businesses to accept lower margins on essential goods. Agriculture & Innovation: CARDI showcased research aimed at boosting regional yields and reducing food imports, highlighting higher production potential for crops like sweet potato, cassava and dasheen. Water Infrastructure: WASCO’s Patience Water Supply Redevelopment Project is nearing completion, with major milestones and a new treatment plant expected soon. Tourism Spotlight: Dominica’s Secret Bay was named among the Caribbean’s top 10 resorts by Travel + Leisure, reinforcing the region’s services and hospitality push. Humanitarian Aid: CARICOM’s humanitarian shipment for Cuba was cleared after repeated banking hurdles tied to sanctions.