The myriad issues before this Thirty-Second Meeting of the Council for Trade and Economic Development (COTED) speak to the breadth and depth of the regional integration movement and its impact on the everyday life of the citizens of the Caribbean Community (CARICOM).
The discussions are taking place in what continues to be a difficult environment in the Region as a result of the global economic and financial crises, although there are some positive signs of recovery with some of our Member States being able to take advantage of the upturn in the
global economy.
Matters engaging our attention over the next two days will range from internal and external trade, free movement, contingent rights, consumer protection, rising fuel and food prices, to transportation, culture and private sector organisational issues. It is clear therefore that decisions and recommendations on these agenda items affect not only states and institutions but also the individual citizens of our Region.
Recent Updates
Work advances on CARICOM Industrial Policy
Consultations with key stakeholders have begun across the Region to finalise the CARICOM Industrial Policy and Strategy in time for approval by Ministers of Trade later this ye
Remarks by the Minister of Foreign Affairs and Foreign Trade of Barbados, Hon. Kerrie Symmonds, Chair of Council for Trade and Economic Development (COTED), at the 60th Regular Meeting of the COTED | 10 June 2025 | Georgetown, Guyana
Colleagues Ministers, Excellencies, Heads of Delegations, representatives of regional institutions, it is my pleasure to welcome you today to this the 60th COTED Meeting.
Ministers reflect on Special COTED on the environment and sustainable development
Environment and Sustainable Development Ministers of the Caribbean Community (CARICOM) met in a special session of the Council for Trade and Economic Development (COTED) in Ant
COTED officials meet to prepare for Ministerial session in June
Preparations have begun for the 60th Meeting of the Caribbean Community (CARICOM) Council for Trade and Economic Development (COTED), which will be held early next month in Geo
Launch of CARICOM Environmental and Natural Resources Policy Framework signals renewed commitment to advancing Caribbean sustainability, resilience - COTED Chair
Sir Molwyn Joseph, Chair of the 118th Special Meeting of the Council for Trade and Economic Development (COTED), delivered the keynote address at the opening of the meeting in