AGP Executive Report

Aviation Safety & Infrastructure: Western Air suspended North Eleuthera flights after inspections found an undulating runway and potholes from poorly done prior repairs; the Ministry of Works says the fix is a full resurfacing (mill the middle and lay a new asphalt layer) rather than patching, with work hoped to start next week after scope and tender steps. Cost of Living: Bahamas CPI rose 3.6% year-on-year in July, driven mainly by restaurants and hotels (+15.7%) and transport (+12.9%), while diesel and petroleum prices stayed well above last year. Tourism & Business Networking: The Bahamas Chamber of Commerce held a “Power of Connections” brunch aboard Allure of the Seas with Royal Caribbean, focusing on strengthening industry ties. Marine Conservation: The Bahamas Project for Marine Conservation assessed 70 marine protected areas, flagging climate change, pollution, funding and capacity as key management hurdles. Healthcare Governance: Public Hospitals Authority named its 2026–2027 board, targeting execution and operational excellence amid major facility projects. Local Culture & Media: “The Silk Walk Experience” won Best Story at the 2026 London Fashion Film Festival, spotlighting Bahamian fashion talent.

Manufacturing & Brewing: PM Philip Davis marked Commonwealth Brewery’s 40th anniversary, calling it proof that long-term investment and local talent can build durable industry. Tourism Networking: The Bahamas Chamber of Commerce held a “power of connections” brunch aboard Allure of the Seas with Royal Caribbean, pushing closer ties across tourism businesses. Maritime Regulation in Practice: The Bahamas Maritime Authority stressed “from regulation to implementation,” urging early industry engagement as shipping shifts toward decarbonisation, digitalisation, and new safety and seafarer rules. Cruise Industry Signals: Royal Caribbean unveiled “The SpongeBob Musical” for Hero of the Seas (Aug 2027), while Carnival’s new Excel-class Festivale continues construction for Port Canaveral with Caribbean itineraries that include Grand Bahama. Air & Infrastructure: Western Air suspended North Eleuthera flights as runway conditions worsened; the Ministry of Works says a full resurfacing is planned, not patchwork. Public Sector Governance: The Public Hospitals Authority announced its 2026–2027 board appointments as major healthcare projects move forward. Tourism Data Pressure: Fitch warned The Bahamas’ cruise-heavy arrivals (84% of arrivals in early 2026) are limiting broader economic and fiscal gains, even as visitor numbers hit records. Protected Areas: The Bahamas Project for Marine Conservation assessed 70 marine protected areas, aiming to move “paper parks” into effectively managed sites.

Cruise & Tourism: Royal Caribbean is adding “The SpongeBob Musical” as the headlining theater show on Hero of the Seas, launching from Miami in Aug. 2027 with every sailing visiting Perfect Day CocoCay in The Bahamas. Tourism Value Watch: Fitch says The Bahamas’ tourism growth is being blunted because cruise passengers make up 84% of arrivals, limiting broader economic and fiscal benefits. Local Tourism Data: The Bahamas remains excluded from a major global tourism index after too few tourism businesses completed required surveys. Aviation & Infrastructure: Western Air suspends North Eleuthera flights as the runway deteriorates; the Ministry of Works plans a full repair via milling and resurfacing. Public Health Governance: The Public Hospitals Authority announces its 2026–2027 board appointments as major hospital and campus projects move forward. Water & Industry Entrepreneurship: Grand Bahama entrepreneur Trevor Williams highlights Out Island Water’s drinking-water production growth—and the day-to-day market and maintenance challenges of running a local utility business. Marine Conservation: The Bahamas Project for Marine Conservation completed assessments of 70 marine protected areas, aiming to move “paper parks” into effectively managed sites. Events & Lifestyle: EV Motors Open returns to Baha Mar (Oct. 2–4) with mixed doubles tennis and an automotive showcase.

Cruise Cleanups With a Bahamas Link: Carnival says crews and shoreside teams removed more than 5,000 pounds of coastal trash in September, including cleanups in the Caribbean and the Bahamas, with 377 crew members from 29 ships joining 111 shoreside employees for 31 beach and waterway events. New Ship Entertainment for the Region: Royal Caribbean revealed “The SpongeBob Musical” will debut at sea on Hero of the Seas from Miami in August 2027, with every sailing visiting Perfect Day CocoCay in The Bahamas. North Eleuthera Runway Disruption: Western Air suspended flights to North Eleuthera after officials found potholes and an undulating runway; the Ministry of Works says a complete resurfacing is planned, with work hoped to start next week. Tourism Data Pressure: The Bahamas remains excluded from a major global tourism index because too few local tourism businesses completed required surveys; GPPI says it has struggled to gather enough responses. Credit Watch on Tourism Mix: Fitch warns the Bahamas’ heavy reliance on lower-spending cruise arrivals limits broader economic and fiscal gains, even as total arrivals keep rising. Healthcare Governance: The Public Hospitals Authority announced its 2026–2027 board appointments as major hospital and campus projects move forward. Marine Conservation Results: The Bahamas Project for Marine Conservation assessed 70 marine protected areas, flagging climate change, pollution, and funding/capacity as recurring management challenges. EV Motors Open at Baha Mar: The EV Motors Open returns Oct. 2–4 at the John McEnroe Tennis Center with mixed doubles tennis, an automotive showcase, and free admission.

Tourism & Finance: Fitch says The Bahamas’ tourism boom is being blunted by heavy reliance on lower-spending cruise arrivals, with cruise passengers making up 84% of arrivals in the first seven months of 2026. Tourism Data Gap: The Bahamas remains excluded from a major global tourism index because too few local tourism businesses completed required surveys, according to the University of The Bahamas’ GPPI. Healthcare Governance: The Public Hospitals Authority named its 2026–2027 board, with a mandate focused on execution and delivery amid major hospital and facility upgrades. Aviation & Infrastructure: Western Air suspended North Eleuthera flights after runway deterioration; the Ministry of Works is moving toward a full resurfacing plan. Marine Conservation: The Bahamas Project for Marine Conservation assessed 70 marine protected areas, aiming to turn “paper parks” into effectively managed sites. Industry Events & Culture: EV Motors Open returns at Baha Mar with free admission, while Paradise Plates raised funds with 50+ vendors and Bahamian food. Cruise Entertainment: Royal Caribbean will debut “The SpongeBob Musical” on Hero of the Seas, with every sailing visiting Perfect Day CocoCay in The Bahamas.

Tourism & Aviation: Western Air suspended flights to North Eleuthera after Ministry of Works inspectors found potholes and an undulating runway, with a “complete repair” planned via milling and full asphalt overlay; flights are expected to stay down until repairs and approvals are completed. Public Health Governance: The Public Hospitals Authority named a new 2026–2027 board, led by reappointed Chairman E. Andrew Edwards, as major hospital and facility upgrades move forward. Marine Conservation: The Bahamas Project for Marine Conservation finished assessments of 70 marine protected areas, flagging climate change, pollution, funding and capacity as recurring management hurdles. Tourism Value Debate: Fitch warned The Bahamas’ tourism gains are limited by heavy reliance on lower-spending cruise arrivals, while local economist Therese Turner-Jones criticized how visitor growth isn’t translating into wider economic benefits. Cruise Industry Watch: Fitch also noted cruise dominance as limiting broader fiscal payoff; meanwhile, cruise coverage included a CBP case involving a passenger accused of leaving minors home alone. Local Business & Culture: Straw Market vendors held a vendor empowerment gathering to unite around a shared future, and Paradise Plates returned to raise funds while spotlighting local food businesses. Healthcare & Infrastructure: PHA’s board appointment comes as new hospital projects and upgrades across New Providence, Grand Bahama and the Family Islands advance. Trade & Connectivity: Bahamas Trade Commission reported results from a Canada mission aimed at opening export and services supply-chain opportunities.

Tourism & Airlift: Aeroméxico announced the first nonstop service between Mexico City and Nassau, launching March 19, 2027, while Breeze Airways adds twice-weekly Tampa–Nassau nonstop jet service starting soon—both moves aimed at boosting visitor access and regional connectivity. Marine Conservation: The Bahamas Project for Marine Conservation assessed 70 Marine Protected Areas using the METT framework, pushing “paper parks” toward effective management with partners including BNT, DMR and DEPP. Housing & Resilience: Grand Bahama’s housing crunch after Hurricane Dorian remains severe, with plans for affordable, resilient homes and a storm-response emergency center supported by University of Miami experts and Resilient Cities Catalyst. Infrastructure Policy: Government tabled revised PPP policy and a “Private Sector First” approach to shift commercially viable projects toward private delivery, backed by a UK advisor review. Investment Climate: A U.S. State Department report flags prolonged approval delays, weak transparency and alleged political interference as growing barriers for U.S. investors. Cruise Industry: MSC World Atlantic floated out in France ahead of 2027 delivery, with alternating 7- and 14-night Caribbean itineraries including Ocean Cay. Local Business & Services: Long Island MP Andre Rollins raised concerns over unreliable mailboat service to the south, calling it an economic lifeline issue. Food & Hospitality: Rosewood Baha Mar confirmed Michelin-recognized Chef Alfredo Villanueva’s month-long Costa residency in November, featuring Bahamian seafood with Baja California flavors.

Climate & UN Diplomacy: PM Philip Davis told the UN General Assembly there’s “no uncertainty” in the climate crisis, warning sea-level rise is a legal and existential threat for small island states. Marine Conservation: The Bahamas Project for Marine Conservation assessed 70 Marine Protected Areas using METT, aiming to turn “paper parks” into effectively managed sites. Housing & Resilience: Freeport’s post-Dorian recovery faces a major gap: nearly half of local housing remains unsafe, as plans move toward affordable resilient homes and a storm-response hub. Tourism Economy Debate: Economist Therese Turner-Jones says tourism growth isn’t translating into wider benefits for Bahamians, echoing concerns raised alongside S&P’s “extremely weak” assessment. S&P Credit Rating Response: S&P affirmed BB- with stable outlook, but critics point to risks around SOEs, contingent liabilities and Grand Bahama Power. Infrastructure Finance: Government unveiled a revised PPP policy with a “Private Sector First” approach to shift commercially viable projects toward private delivery. Investment Climate: A U.S. State Department report flags approval delays, weak transparency and alleged political interference affecting U.S. investors. Cruise & Shipping Build-Out: MSC World Atlantic floated out in France ahead of 2027 delivery, with LNG-powered cruising and Bahamas stops; Royal Caribbean also signals port changes in the U.S. Superyachts & Services: Bahamas launched “Dock Anchor & Discover” at Monaco to market marinas, FBOs and concierge services to the global superyacht market. NIB Governance: A newly appointed National Insurance Board held its inaugural meeting, setting priorities including fund sustainability and technology modernization. Labour & Health Sector: Court ordered Bahamas Nurses Union elections by Nov. 13 after governance breakdown findings. Transport Reliability: Long Island MP Andre Rollins raised concerns about unreliable south Long Island mailboat service and late government payments.

Sovereign Credit Watch: S&P Global reaffirmed The Bahamas’ BB- rating with a stable outlook, praising stronger growth and a narrower fiscal deficit but warning the score could slip if revenues lag or state-owned enterprises need bigger bailouts. Tourism & Finance Policy: Government moves to remove VAT from trust services and certain property transfers into trusts, alongside a new Family Office Programme aimed at boosting competitiveness for international wealth. Cruise & Maritime Growth: MSC floated out the MSC World Atlantic in France, with delivery set for 2027 and Bahamas calls including Ocean Cay; Norwegian also highlighted major Great Stirrup Cay upgrades tied to Middle East demand. Superyacht Push: Bahamas launched “Dock Anchor & Discover” at Monaco Yacht Show, pitching marinas, FBOs and concierge services to capture more European superyacht traffic. Industry Leadership: BHTA named Robert Sands interim president after Jackson Weech’s tourism director-general appointment; NIB welcomed a newly appointed board and set priorities including fund sustainability and tech modernization. Energy/Shipping Tech: Kinetics Energies acquired a steam-turbine LNG carrier for conversion into an FSRU, targeting delivery in 2028. Business Deals: Massy confirmed selling its Caterpillar business to MACORP, saying it strengthens growth across the region. Local Culture & Community: Paradise Plates 2026 charity auction added new artwork “For Stef” to support Hands for Hunger feeding programmes.

Tourism & Climate: Prime Minister Philip Davis told the UN there’s “no uncertainty” in the climate crisis, warning sea-level rise threatens statehood and citing the Declaration on Sea-Level Rise. Financial Services Policy: Government will remove VAT from trust services by end-2026 and also from certain property transfers into trusts, alongside a new Family Office Programme and Bahamas Invest Concierge. Cruise & Marine Growth: MSC celebrated the float-out of the MSC World Atlantic in France; the 2027-delivery ship will sail Caribbean itineraries including MSC’s Bahamas private island Ocean Cay. Superyacht Push: The Bahamas Ministry of Tourism launched “Dock Anchor & Discover” at Monaco Yacht Show to market the country as a superyacht hub, highlighting marinas, FBOs, provisioning and concierge services. Hospitality Leadership: Bahamas Hotel and Tourism Association names Robert “Sandy” Sands interim president after Jackson Weech’s move to Director General of Tourism. Local Industry & Jobs: Massy Group confirmed it’s selling its Caterpillar dealership to MACORP, with assurances for employees and a focus on regional growth. Construction & Community: Govt and the union broke ground on the Patrick S. Bain Subdivision, a nine-home housing project with hurricane-proof features and a nature park. Beach Access Tension: Cabbage Beach vendors say relocation plans are still unclear as development work proceeds and a fence remains a flashpoint.

Hotel & Airport Development: Nassau Airport Development Company is set to select a proponent for a 250-room hotel at LPIA via an RFP, with selection expected early 2027, including two buildings and stormwater detention areas. Cruise & Private-Island Investment: MSC Group broke ground on Sandy Cay (opening 2028) next to Ocean Cay, pitching a more intimate, wellness-led luxury experience; the broader MSC Bahamas push is framed as nearing $1.5bn with major construction and hospitality spillovers. Tourism Leadership: The Bahamas Ministry of Tourism appointed Jackson Weech as Director General, signaling a push to steer tourism growth. Banking & Payments: BankPro partnered with Thredd to power its physical and virtual debit/credit cards, aiming for faster, more integrated card experiences for high-net-worth clients. Environment & Community Tensions: Bahama Rock’s proposed aggregate excavation in Grand Bahama remains at a standstill pending environmental review adjustments after a town hall was “not favorable.” Beach Access & Vendor Fallout: Cabbage Beach vendors say relocation plans ahead of October 1 are still unclear, raising livelihood concerns. Safety on the Ground: A 60-year-old tourist was rescued after rough surf trapped her against a fence at Cabbage Beach, with advocates calling for action on beach barriers. Sports & Events: HBCU football returns to The Bahamas with the YES Bahamas HBCU Football Classic after a decade hiatus. Economic Outlook: The Central Bank forecast 2026 growth will moderately exceed medium-term potential, supported by rising tourism arrivals.

Tourism Leadership: The Bahamas Ministry of Tourism named hotel veteran Jackson Weech as Director General effective Oct. 1, with the BHTA set to appoint an interim president until elections on Dec. 2. Cruise & Construction Jobs: MSC Group broke ground on Sandy Cay (opening planned for 2028) next to Ocean Cay, with the Prime Minister citing near $1.5bn in total MSC investment in The Bahamas and expectations of 600+ construction jobs. Private-Island Expansion: MSC also outlined Ocean Cay upgrades alongside Sandy Cay, reinforcing a two-island strategy for different guest experiences. Cabbage Beach Fallout: Vendors at Cabbage Beach say relocation plans are still unclear as a fence dispute continues ahead of an Oct. 1 deadline, with government saying required notice wasn’t given and fencing must come down. Environment & Industry: In Grand Bahama, Environment Minister Zane Lightbourne says Bahama Rock’s aggregate expansion remains at a standstill pending environmental review adjustments after a town hall was “not favorable.” Banking & Payments: BankPro partnered with Thredd to power its physical and virtual card programs for international private banking clients. Economy Watch: The Central Bank forecast 2026 growth will moderately exceed potential, citing stronger tourism arrivals through July.

Tourism Leadership: The Bahamas Ministry of Tourism has appointed veteran hospitality executive Jackson Alexander Weech as Director General effective Oct. 1, with the Bahamas Hotel and Tourism Association set to name an interim president after his move. Cruise & Private Islands: MSC is pushing ahead with a $400m Sandy Cay development (opening planned for 2028) and Ocean Cay upgrades, while Norwegian Cruise Line shared a first look at its Great Tides Waterpark on Great Stirrup Cay. Visitor Economy Watch: Central Bank data shows July tourist arrivals up 16.8% to 1.2m, led by cruise growth, with August indicators pointing to stronger earnings. On-the-Ground Tensions: Cabbage Beach’s fence dispute escalated again as vendors and protesters clashed over access; a tourist was swept into rough water and rescued. Workforce & Skills: Tourism Development Corporation renews its Junior Achievement partnership to mentor students through a 20-week program. Maritime Registry: Liberia’s ship registry leadership briefed President Boakai, noting Liberia remains the world’s largest registry, including major flags like The Bahamas. Industry Risk Signals: A commentary warns investors against promises of extreme returns, urging caution on high-risk schemes. Tech & Space: SpaceX’s Starship reached orbit for the first time, deploying 26 Starlink V3 satellites.

Cruise & Tourism Investment: MSC broke ground on Sandy Cay, a $400m private island beside Ocean Cay, with construction already underway and a 2028 opening planned; the island targets MSC Cruises and Explora Journeys guests with a quieter, wellness-led, upscale setup, while Ocean Cay gets upgrades too. Tourism Leadership: Jackson Weech was appointed Director General of The Bahamas Ministry of Tourism effective Oct. 1, bringing 35+ years in hospitality and tourism, replacing Latia Duncombe. Public Access & Beach Tensions: Vendors and protesters clashed over new fencing at Cabbage Beach; after a tourist was swept into rough water, calls intensified to remove the fence and protect shoreline access. Aviation & Weather Services Debate: Opposition leader Michael Pintard urged release of the BACSWN deal details, warning proposed airline fees could hit airlift, competitiveness, and Family Island routes. Youth & Entrepreneurship: TDC launched a second-year Junior Achievement partnership, mentoring students through entrepreneurship and financial literacy. Construction Safety: A worker’s sister says he raised safety concerns before a Lyford Cay trench collapse killed him, calling for stronger oversight. Local Economy Pulse: Straw Market vendors returned after a two-day closure for cleaning, with mixed reactions about how thoroughly stalls were handled. Regional Culture: The Mighty Sparrow died at 91, prompting Caribbean-wide mourning.

Tourism Leadership: Jackson Alexander Weech, a veteran hotelier and former Atlantis Royal Towers vice president/general manager, has been appointed director general of the Ministry of Tourism effective Oct. 1, replacing Latia Duncombe. Aviation & Tourism Costs: The FNM is pushing for the release of the government’s BACSWN aviation deal, warning proposed flat overflight fees could raise ticket prices and hurt Family Island airlift. UN Digital Sovereignty: Prime Minister Philip Davis told the UN that small states must control their own data, calling it “colonisation by data,” alongside calls for reparatory justice and an end to the Cuba blockade. Diplomatic Tensions Over DEA Probes: The Ministry of Foreign Affairs has complained to US officials about DEA investigations in The Bahamas without Bahamian government consent, citing cases involving Jonathan Gardiner and Elvis Curtis. Haiti Security Push: OAS member states, including The Bahamas, urged the UN Security Council to renew Haiti’s Gang Suppression Force mandate with full funding and deployment support. Maritime Disruption: Nor’easter weather is reshuffling cruise schedules, including Carnival Sunshine’s one-day delay and rerouted Bahamas itinerary. Local Business Pressure: Cabbage Beach vendors protest renewed fencing and relocation letters, warning public access and livelihoods are at stake. Energy & Reliability: Bahamas Power and Light outages continue to disrupt residents, with Eleuthera and New Providence hit hard.

Tourism & Hospitality Deal: CARICOM Private Sector Organization (CPSO) congratulated Sandals Resorts and Royal Caribbean Group on the landmark partnership: Royal Caribbean to buy a 50% stake in Sandals and Beaches for about US$3bn, with a close expected in early 2027—seen as a major boost for regional airlift and supply chains. UN Policy & Digital Sovereignty: Prime Minister Philip Davis defended The Bahamas at the UN General Assembly, warning against “colonisation by data” and calling for digital sovereignty, alongside climate action and multilateralism. Energy Reliability: Power outages continued to disrupt businesses and services, with Eleuthera hit hard; one hospital reported higher operating costs and limits on diagnostic equipment while relying on generators. Local Tourism Friction: Vendors protested fencing and access changes at Cabbage Beach, saying promised relocation sites can’t absorb them and that the dispute is spilling into visitor experience. Maritime/Weather Disruptions: Nor’easter impacts kept cruise schedules shifting, including Royal Caribbean rerouting to Nassau and Grand Bahama and Carnival Sunshine delaying a Norfolk return and shortening a Bahamas itinerary. Industry Safety & Construction: Two men were identified after a deadly Lyford Cay trench collapse at a construction site, renewing calls for stronger workplace protections. Maritime Security: The Bahamas Wildlife Enforcement Network (BahWEN) soft-launched its new headquarters, expanding centralized operations, intelligence, and training. Aviation/Travel Costs: U.S. Global Entry fee changes are pushing travelers toward free alternatives like Mobile Passport Control to avoid customs lines.