Caribbean Trade & Transport: Trinidad and Tobago is floating a regional ferry plan to cut inter-island cargo costs, framed by economist Prof Roger Hosein as “trade infrastructure” that could boost non-energy exports and deepen CARICOM economic integration. Tax & Revenue Modernisation: CARICOM Secretary-General Dr. Carla Barnett urged Caribbean governments to build stronger, tech-driven tax systems at the 27th COTA conference in Georgetown, as international aid becomes less certain. Border Mining Pressure (French Guiana link): France is pushing Suriname for joint action over illegal gold mining along the Marowijne River, citing extreme mercury and arsenic contamination and warning the crisis is escalating on the border with French Guiana. Solar & Hydrogen Investment: French firm HDF Energy secured Jamaica land for a utility-scale solar-plus-hydrogen and battery project and is inviting investors and contractors to join. Energy Market Watch: Voltalia reported 2,408GWh generated in H1 2026, with solar curtailment improving and revenue up, supported by new projects. Satellite Connectivity Race: Amazon filed with the FCC to build a direct-to-device satellite constellation of up to 5,105 satellites, targeting service start in 2028. Illegal Mining Enforcement Tech (Brazil): Brazil’s “gold fingerprinting” lab uses forensic signatures to trace seized gold to protected areas, aiming to tighten enforcement against illegal extraction. Maritime Risk & Recovery: After the St Vincent VII sank off the French Guiana area, survivors’ accounts continue as one rescued fisherman later died, underscoring ongoing search and rescue and safety concerns.