TIC Momentum for SMEs: Trinidad’s 2026 Trade and Investment Convention drew 411 booths and strong SME interest, but businesses flagged recurring hurdles like economic instability and forex access. Tourism Policy & Regional Trade: CARICOM leaders and private sector groups met in St Lucia to push practical affordability moves—cutting intra-regional trade barriers, lowering transport and logistics costs, and strengthening tourism linkages. Energy vs Nature: A new Earth Insight report warns T&T’s offshore and coastal expansion could put all coral reefs within oil-and-gas zones, raising fresh questions for marine tourism. VAT Refund Pressure: The TTMA says manufacturers are still waiting on VAT refunds, limiting reinvestment and job creation—an issue that can ripple into visitor-facing services. Regional Ferry Debate: Tobago stakeholders question plans for a temporary CARICOM cargo ferry, worried about reliability and whether Tobago’s seabridge needs could be affected. Visitor Travel Updates: The UK reaffirmed visa requirements for Nigerians and over 100 other countries for short stays, while Germany published its 2026 visa-free list of 62 countries. Local Experiences: Parang Under the Stars returns July 25 in Maracas, and Blue Mountain Village’s Reggae on the Mountain runs July 24–26 with a JUNO-winning headliner. Travel Deals: Caribbean Airlines launched limited September one-way fares between Trinidad and Barbados from US$142. On the Trail: A 52-year-old hiker died after collapsing on the Blanchisseuse trail.