The Caribbean is ready to change the conversation. Long known for its pristine beaches and vibrant culture, the region is now setting the stage to present itself as a serious contender in the global investment landscape. This July, Montego Bay will host the Caribbean Investment Forum (CIF) 2025, a landmark event aiming to position the Caribbean as a competitive and credible investment destination.
Officially launched this month in Kingston, CIF 2025 is being promoted as the region’s flagship platform for linking international capital with investment-ready opportunities. The Forum will run from July 29–31, 2025, under the theme “SMART. GREEN. CONNECTED.”
The event is being organized by the Caribbean Export Development Agency in collaboration with the Government of Jamaica, the European Union, and the CARICOM Secretariat. Together, these partners aim to drive a shift in how the Caribbean is marketed—moving away from traditional sectors and showcasing its strengths in innovation, sustainability, and digital transformation.
“The Caribbean has reached a pivotal juncture,” said Dr. Damie Sinanan, Executive Director of Caribbean Export, during the launch. “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.”
Jamaica’s Minister of Industry, Investment and Commerce, Senator the Honourable Aubyn Hill, emphasized the significance of the host nation’s role:
“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.”
The forum is expected to attract over 500 delegates, including international investors, entrepreneurs, government officials, development finance institutions, and diaspora leaders. The three-day agenda includes investment pitch sessions, policy dialogues, sector-specific roundtables, and opportunities for deal-making.
This year’s Forum will spotlight four critical sectors:
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Sustainable Agriculture – Aiming to bolster food security and promote agribusiness innovation
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Green Economy Transition – Focusing on renewable energy, climate resilience, and sustainability
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Digital Transformation – Centered on fintech, AI, and smart technologies
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Logistics & Transportation – Enhancing mobility and regional trade infrastructure
Each sector was chosen for its potential to foster inclusive growth and integrate the region into global value chains.
Representing the European Union at the launch, Her Excellency Dr. Erja Askola, Ambassador to Jamaica, Belize, and The Bahamas, reaffirmed the EU’s ongoing support for regional development:
“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.”
While CIF 2025 will take place in Montego Bay, its ambitions stretch far beyond. Organisers view the Forum as a catalyst for long-term regional transformation. As preparations get underway, stakeholders across the Caribbean and the diaspora are being encouraged to engage and help redefine the region’s global investment image.