Port of Spain (January 17, 2013) – The Directorate of Trade Development and External Economic Relations of the Association of Caribbean States will host its 1st Meeting of the Working Group on Business Visas on January 25, 2013 at its Headquarters in Port of Spain. 

The discussion of business visas falls under the general caveat of Trade Facilitation throughout the region. Business visas cater to the movement of business persons presenting opportunities for increased integration, investment and exchange of technical assistance and knowledge. The issuance of business visas is deemed to be important for the ACS region because of its contribution to employment creation; it promotes development of new areas/sectors of interest; and it provides a mechanism for better migration control.” It thereby can assist Member states in meeting both economic and developmental goals simultaneously.

This initial meeting aims to facilitate dialogue among Member States on the procedures and facilities needed for the effective and expeditious granting of business visas to businesspersons and investors within the Greater Caribbean region. Furthermore, the meeting will examine ways in which criteria may be established for granting visas, taking into consideration the issue of national security.

The Directorate of Trade Development and External Economic Relations of the ACS is committed to addressing issues such as business visas, which facilitate effective trade relations among its Member States and thus stimulating national and regional economic growth. The ACS will continue to support and provide these initiatives in an effort to improve regional cooperation and development.