The Caribbean is ready to change the conversation. For decades, the region has been defined by its postcard-perfect beaches, vibrant culture, and warm hospitality. But this July, Montego Bay will host a transformative event that seeks to reintroduce the Caribbean to the world as a credible and competitive investment destination.

The Caribbean Investment Forum (CIF) 2025, officially launched this month in Kingston, is being positioned as the region’s premier platform for connecting international capital with high-potential, investment-ready opportunities across the Caribbean. The Forum is scheduled to take place in Montego Bay from July 29–31, 2025, under the theme “SMART. GREEN. CONNECTED.”

Hosted by the Caribbean Export Development Agency, in collaboration with the Government of Jamaica, the European Union, and the CARICOM Secretariat, CIF 2025 represents a strategic pivot in how the region markets itself globally. It highlights the Caribbean’s natural assets and its untapped potential in sectors vital to sustainable growth.

“The Caribbean has reached a pivotal juncture,” said Dr. Damie Sinanan, Executive Director of Caribbean Export, at the launch event. “We can no longer rely solely on traditional sectors to attract investment. We are building an economic ecosystem that is green, digital, and inclusive to ensure a resilient Caribbean region. CIF is where those ambitions meet action. The Caribbean Investment Forum continues to be the premier platform that transforms Caribbean potential into performance and the Caribbean region will move from global interest into investment impact.”

Senator the Honourable Aubyn Hill, Minister of Industry, Investment and Commerce, Jamaica’s Business Ministry, underscored the significance of Jamaica hosting this year’s Forum:
“Jamaica is tremendously honoured to host the Caribbean Investment Forum 2025 in partnership with the Caribbean Export. The forum provides a dynamic platform to demonstrate the readiness of Jamaica and the wider Caribbean to do business, increase exports, especially high-value services and attract transformative investments that grow GDP per capita, boost productivity and increase prosperity. As a Government, we are proud to lead the charge in presenting a greener, smarter and more connected Caribbean to the world, one which is open for transformative investments.”

CIF 2025 is expected to convene over 500 delegates, including international investors, government leaders, development finance institutions, entrepreneurs, and diaspora representatives. Over the three-day period, attendees will engage in pitch sessions, policy discussions, sector-specific roundtables, and deal-making opportunities.

The focus for this year’s Forum is both timely and ambitious. Key investment sectors include:

• Sustainable Agriculture: Strengthening food security and agribusiness innovation
• Green Economy Transition: Advancing renewable energy, climate resilience and sustainability
• Digital Transformation: Powering the future with fintech, AI, and smart technologies
• Logistics & Transportation: Enhancing trade, mobility and infrastructure for global connectivity

These sectors were deliberately chosen for their potential to generate inclusive economic growth, reduce poverty, and position the Caribbean as a serious player in global value chains.

At the launch, Her Excellency Dr. Erja Askola, Ambassador to Jamaica, Belize, and The Bahamas, reiterated the EU’s commitment:

” From green energy to digital transformation and transport connectivity, the European Union sees the Caribbean as a strategic partner in building a sustainable, better-connected future. Together, we can drive innovation, attract climate-smart investment and empower the region’s next generation of entrepreneurs. This is why the EU is excited to support the Caribbean Investment Forum 2025, where concrete collaborations can be incubated.”

The anticipated impact of CIF 2025 extends beyond Montego Bay. Organisers hope the event will catalyse a longer-term shift in how the Caribbean positions itself in global investment narratives. As the countdown to July begins, stakeholders across the region and the diaspora are being called upon to participate as partners in building a new Caribbean economy.

For more information on how to attend or partner with CIF 2025, visit www.caribbeaninvestmentforum.com or contact the organisers at [email protected].