Dominica PM Skerrit urges private sector to defend Citizenship by Investment programs

DOMINICA NEWS ONLINE: Dominica’s Prime Minister, Roosevelt Skerrit wants private sector entities and stakeholders to actively defend the Citizenship by Investment (CBI) programs in the face of external challenges

Skerrit is one of the leaders attending the Caribbean Investment Summit 2025 held at the AUA Conference Centre in Antigua and Barbuda.

During a panel discussion titled “Creating and Implementing the Vision,” Skerritt highlighted CBI programs’ critical role in the nation’s development. He pointed out that these initiatives have significantly contributed to reducing Dominica’s debt-to-GDP ratio, establishing an emergency fund, and providing housing for citizens.

Despite these clear benefits, Skerritt expressed his disappointment that the defense of these programs seems to rest solely with government officials.

 “It should not be left to the governments alone to be the ones extolling the virtues of the CBI programmes. We do not hear the agents or the developers, we do not hear from the private sectors who are benefiting directly from the CBI programmes,” he stated.

He further emphasized that the silence from those who profit from the CBI initiatives could be misinterpreted as a sign of wrongdoing. “Our silence gives people the impression that there is something untoward with these programmes,” Skerritt remarked.

He urged those present to speak up and help change the narrative surrounding the CBI programs, asserting that the support of the private sector is crucial in countering negative sentiments.

Describing the CBI programs as beneficial and life-changing, both for the nation and its citizens, Skerritt reiterated the need for collective action. As the global landscape continues to evolve, he believes it is more important than ever for all stakeholders to unite in their defense of these vital initiatives.

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