BRIDGETOWN, Barbados – Economic growth across the Caribbean remained subdued in 2025, as global uncertainty, climate shocks and structural challenges weighed on performance, according to the latest Caribbean Economic Review and Outlook 2025-2026 by the Caribbean Development Bank.
Regional growth, excluding Guyana, slowed to 0.6 percent from 1.4 percent in 2024. Including Guyana, growth reached 4.7 percent, with the country continuing to drive overall performance. Tourism supported activity, though at a slower pace, while commodity-exporting economies showed mixed results.
Several countries faced setbacks from climate-related disruptions and external pressures. Jamaica was impacted by Hurricane Melissa, while Haiti’s economy contracted for the seventh consecutive year amid ongoing insecurity.
Labour markets remained relatively stable and inflation eased, although it stayed above pre-pandemic levels. Fiscal performance was mixed, with elevated debt levels in several economies.
Projection
Looking ahead, growth is projected at 1.1 percent in 2026 excluding Guyana, and 6.2 percent including it, largely driven by continued oil expansion. However, the outlook remains uncertain due to geopolitical tensions, climate risks and fiscal vulnerabilities.
