Jamaica to Host 49th Regular CARICOM Meeting in July 2025

Jamaica is set to take center stage as the host of the 49th Regular Meeting of the Caribbean Community (CARICOM) in July 2025. This high-level gathering will bring together regional leaders to discuss pressing issues, with trade and security expected to dominate the agenda.

Jamaica’s Minister of Foreign Affairs and Foreign Trade, Kamina Johnson Smith, recently confirmed the event during a Think Tank discussion. She announced that Prime Minister Andrew Holness will assume the Chairmanship of CARICOM on July 1, 2025, positioning Jamaica at the forefront of regional decision-making.

Johnson Smith emphasized that Prime Minister Holness has been actively engaged in shaping discussions on external trade negotiations, having presented on the subject during the 48th Regular Meeting of CARICOM Heads in Barbados earlier this year.

“We are working diligently between these meetings to ensure a more substantive and meaningful discussion,” she said. “Security, as we know, remains a critical factor impacting economic growth across the region.”

She further highlighted Prime Minister Holness’ ongoing advocacy for a global approach to tackling transnational crime. “The Prime Minister has been pushing for stronger international cooperation and strategic mechanisms to combat cross-border criminal activity. This is expected to be a key focus of the upcoming meeting,” she added.

The 49th Regular Meeting of CARICOM will take place shortly after the International Conference on Financing for Development, scheduled for June 30 to July 3 in Seville, Spain. To accommodate leaders who also serve as finance ministers, the CARICOM meeting will be held one week later than usual.

With Jamaica at the helm, the conference is poised to be a pivotal moment for regional collaboration, strengthening economic ties, and addressing shared security concerns. The discussions will set the stage for CARICOM’s continued progress in fostering regional unity and sustainable development.