Dominica: Finance Minister Irving McIntyre revealed a big budget for the new smart cargo port at Donkey Beach, Canfield. The minister announced Dominica’s budget statement for fiscal year 2024/2025 this Friday. The project is reported to be one of the official and planned future investments for the country’s economic development to ensure its long-term viability.
A new cargo port will be built to meet the necessary criteria in terms of adaptability to climate and other factors that affect the work process. Aside from the cargo port, there are also plans for a new cruise village in Woodbridge Bay. According to McIntyre, the cruise town will include improvements for cruise ships, ferry services, and a specialised duty-free shopping area. “The DFS zone is anticipated to attract foreign cash and investment, which will benefit both large and small firms.” Said the minister.
The finance minister stated that these projects aim to generate more employment opportunities and commercial opportunities both during and after the construction.
The minister of finance then also named other two projects including the construction of the International Airport and the Cabrits Marina, all of which aim to boost economic activity, and long-term employment.
McIntyre then stated in his budget statement that the Cabrits Marina in Dominica would be built within the next 12 to 18 months. The marina will provide specific services to operators, super yachts, and seafarers, including fuel, security, transportation, and catering. It is assumed that this initiative will generate more finance to the country and will also create additional sources of income for Dominicans actively involved in the yachting industry.
“The Cabrits Marina will make the tourists wish to be at home in Dominica due to the friendly people and reduced crime incidences,” according to McIntyre. He anticipated that sophisticated architecture and facilities will triple the number of yachts arrivals in Dominica, resulting in increased economic growth, possibilities, and jobs.