Caribbean Poultry Association and Republic Bank partner on Symposium promoting Sustainability and Resilience in the Poultry Sector

Port of Spain, Trinidad, May 22, 2024: Over 100 key stakeholders within the regional and international poultry industry recently convened for the Caribbean Poultry Association’s 7th International Technical Symposium and Exhibition at the Hyatt Regency Trinidad during May 14 – 16.

The event attracted industry leaders, technical experts, and policymakers from the Caribbean Community (CARICOM) and beyond, and featured notable speakers including Mr. Joseph Cox, CARICOM Assistant Secretary General for Integration, Innovation and Development; the Honourable Colm Imbert, Minister of Finance; and Mr. Hamant Mahabir, President of the Caribbean Poultry Association. Participants discussed innovative strategies to drive the industry’s growth, and addressed critical issues such as sustainable farming practices, climate change resilience, and food security for the region.

This is the second time the hallmark symposium of the Caribbean Poultry Association was hosted in Trinidad and Tobago, having been held here previously in 2014. The event is one of the ways the Association works to achieve its purpose to mobilise game-changing collaboration within the Caribbean poultry industry by connecting industry players with credible data, resources and partners.

Republic Bank served as a gold sponsor of the event, demonstrating its commitment to supporting the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and advancing food security in the region."As a prominent financial institution in the Caribbean, Republic Bank stands firm in its dedication to supporting initiatives that foster sustainability and resilience in the agricultural sector," stated Tricia Bissoon-Pollard, Manager, Centre for Business Innovation. "Our sponsorship of this conference aligns perfectly with our commitment to SDG number 2: Zero Hunger and our mission to enhance food security throughout the region."

The Bank’s other efforts to support the agriculture industry include the recent launch of its specialised Agri Business Loan product tailored to meet the unique needs of all within the agri-ecosystem. This customised loan solution provides agri-entrepreneurs with access to financial resources, technical support, and training opportunities to help implement sustainable farming practices and improve productivity and profitability.

"At Republic Bank, we are here to provide support and assistance to individuals within the poultry sector who are eager to build a sustainable and resilient future for their businesses," added Bissoon-Pollard. "Through our agri loan products and ongoing partnerships with industry stakeholders like the Caribbean Poultry Association, we are fully committed to the long-term success of farmers and the industry as a whole."