The Bahamas Investor

...s that apply in other countries are exempted for Bahamian-flagged vessels. For companies based in The Bahamas there are also financial advantages to setting up shop in a tax-free jurisdiction. Earned income is tax-free, as are capital gains made on the sale of ships. The country also exempts foreign-owned ships weighing more than 150 gross tonnes from paying customs duties and stamp taxes. As a banking and financial centre, the country has a netwo......

...r. “After all, that is why we are here.” Star Island For such efforts to become commonplace will require a significant change in the thinking of hotel operators and tourist service providers for the industry to remain sustainable into the future. One encouraging sign is that some newer projects in The Bahamas, such as a project on Star Island, are following the lead set by the likes of Armbrister and Fortier. “This is a very exciting time in the f......

...and in turn to share our knowledge,” he added. Minister Pinder said that, for example, in the case of the Dominican Republic, the government has committed to conclude various Memoranda of Understanding, including a Memorandum on International Trade between the Ministry of Industry and Commerce of the Dominican Republic and his Ministry, which has responsibility for international trade. “In addition to developing a Business Council with representa......

...eveloped European counterparts. “We cannot prefer our agricultural sector [for example] over and above any of the signatories as we have agreed to lower and remove customs duties on such products coming to The Bahamas,” says Paul Moss, chairman of Bahamians Agitating for a Referendum on Free Trade (BARF). “This is clearly shortsighted as we should be in position to nurture this section, especially in a volatile world where we have seen the [scarci......

...e and feel examples of off-the-grid buildings working, then they will feel comfortable committing their money to our project.” Self-sufficient Each of the 45 family residences–20 bungalows and 24 condominiums–as well as the spa, bars and restaurants of the finished development will run on a combination of solar, wind and hydropower, with a biodiesel backup generator using the resort’s own waste. It is hoped that excess wattage may one day be sold......

...ity Promotion, particularly in emerging markets, is key to the GBPA’s plan for Freeport. To accomplish this, the GBPA has invested in a new marketing campaign, which involves rebranding the organization, preparing new multimedia promotional materials and embarking on a series of trade missions. “You have to get out and inform people,” says Fair. “Sitting waiting for business is not going to work. You have to be in Panama, in Latin America, and mar......

...ime Minister has committed that he will make the University of The Bahamas free for qualifying Bahamians as well,” added Minister Thompson. The Minister pointed out that throughout 2018, a number of new businesses have opened in Grand Bahama by both local and foreign investors helping to stimulate the island’s economy. Those companies include GIBC Digital; Bahamas Zipline at Pirates Cove (a $1.4 million investment); Eco-Oil broke ground for its ne......

...aurants, retail and nightlife. After a day in the sun, travelers can swing by To Dry For, the first standalone blow dry bar at sea. Offering blowouts, hairstyling and polish changes, plus a selection of wines and champagnes, the new space is the perfect stop for a quick beauty fix before a night out. The Bamboo Room, first introduced on Mariner of the Seas, is the cruise line’s Polynesian-themed watering hole with kitschy-cool cocktails and unique......

...in the formation of Mr Ingraham’s Cabinet. The roles previously conducted by that Ministry will be absorbed by different ministries. The Bahamas Financial Services Board (BFSB), which was created during Ingraham’s second term in office, will continue to play a key role. The FNM has promised to create a statutory Financial Services Board, giving it increased importance in the country’s development. Another sign that the sector is seen by the gover......

...e reasons for my party’s loss, I accept full and unreserved responsibility for our defeat.” “By leaving at this time, I wanted to afford my party the opportunity to move forward with new leadership and a fresh start. I remain confident in the future success of the Free National Movement.” Ingraham came from humble beginnings having been raised in a small Family Island community where people got water from open wells, lit the night with kerosene la......

...e people of The Bahamas have in your leadership and in the programmes of your party,” Ambassador LaRocque’s congratulatory letter said. He noted that the conduct of the polls once again demonstrated the commitment of CARICOM Member States to the democratic tenet of free and fair elections. CARICOM mounted an 11-member Electoral Observation Mission to monitor the election process.......

...checked bag weighing up to 44lbs. Vacations are on sale now, and packages to this beautiful destination can be booked online at VACATIONEXPRESS.com, by calling 1-800-309-4717 or through a local travel agent.......

...ernational companies are looking to develop affordable solar panel systems for commercial and residential use. Attempting to carve its own niche in the energy market, Bahamas company Green Fuel Enterprises has chosen a different route, spearheading efforts to introduce renewable biofuels as a viable alternative to fossil fuels. “Importing fuel doesn’t create anything for The Bahamas except costs,” says Wilfred Smith, the head of the company. “Oil......

...size. (Photo via Romora Bay Club & Resort) Romora Bay Club & Resort is celebrating the completion of a fitness centre, the first part of a multi-level renovation and upgrade to the property that includes two restaurants, marina, infinity pool and 14 rooms. The offer includes free gym time, special daily rates for hotel and marina guests and reduced marina rates. The special rates will be in effect until February 6. Romora Bay features free wireles......

...rt. The lively ceremony was punctuated by giveaways ranging from $100 to a free stay for two at the resort. There was also a fierce contested, but friendly competition between Atlantis’ towers: Coral and Beach Towers; Royal Towers; and The Cove and Reef. Each tower competed to best depict the 20th anniversary’s theme. Royal Tower’s junkanoo rush out stole the show and won the competition. As for business this year, Markantonis said that although i......