Business
Grenada: Economy, job creation, improved business climate included in plans to stimulate growth
The recently elected Keith Mitchell administration has outlined plans for the construction of a new economy that will spur economic growth and development in Grenada.
The plans were revealed in the Throne Speech delivered by Governor General Sir Carlyle Glean, at the first session of the Ninth Parliament of Grenada.
Job creation, business opportunities for investors, opportunity for wealth creation and prosperity and social justice for all, are among the priorities.
“This new economy is essential to restore the hopes and aspirations of our people especially our youths. Without jobs, our cherished values are undermined, our democracy is weakened and future is dim”, Glean told the packed audience made up of a wide cross section of the population. The governor general said that Grenada’s economic revival requires local and foreign investments and that efforts are being made to attract clean and credible investors.
“In this regard, the government will move to swiftly remove barriers to investment by boosting investor confidence in the management of the economy; further streamlining the investment facilitation process at the Grenada Industrial Development Corporation; and implementing Grenada’s treaty obligations in respect to aliens landholding license.”
Glean pointed out that government will soon be introducing a citizen by investment program, which has existed for a long time in several developed and developing countries. “The government will establish a committee to identify best practices for such programs, review proposals from interested firms and make recommendations to cabinet. This program will require new legislation and my government is committed to bring appropriate legislation to parliament within its first year in office.”
The governor general listed several areas of potential investment including- infrastructure such as roads, airports and ports, agribusinesses, tourism, the energy sector (renewable and non-renewable), ICT and youth development.
Glean indicated that government is making a concerted effort to reduce unemployment currently standing at 31 percent, by implementing stimulus programmes for agriculture, construction, manufacturing, ICT and financial services, additionally, he also mentioned that special attention will be given to the small and micro-business sectors including financing and business support services for entrepreneurs.