Prime Minister Dickon Mitchell Advocates for Regional Unity to Preserve the Caribbean Citizenship by Investment Sector at the Caribbean Investment Summit.

The 2025 Caribbean Investment Summit (CIS25) marked a pivotal moment for the region’s Citizenship by Investment Programmes (CIPs), facing increasing scrutiny and challenges. Grenada’s Prime Minister, Dickon Mitchell, emerged as a leading voice, advocating for reform and collaboration to ensure the long-term viability of these programmes. His presence and contributions resonated throughout the summit, setting the stage for a potential shift in regional leadership within the CBI landscape. Held under the theme “Integrity. Stability. Sustainability – CBI Pathway to Economic Prosperity,” CIS25 was deemed the most significant investment migration summit in recent Caribbean history, and Mitchell’s proactive stance solidified his role as a key figure in navigating the future of CBI.

Mitchell’s address emphasized the critical need for regional unity in addressing the challenges facing CBI programmes. He outlined key priorities, including strengthened regional collaboration on due diligence and applicant vetting processes. This emphasis on collaboration signifies a move towards a more unified approach to ensuring the integrity of CIPs across the Caribbean, potentially mitigating risks and enhancing the credibility of these programmes on the global stage. Furthermore, Mitchell stressed the importance of balancing programme integrity with global competitiveness, recognizing the need to adapt to evolving international regulations while maintaining the attractiveness of Caribbean CIPs to investors.

Harmonizing CBI policies across Caribbean states was another cornerstone of Mitchell’s message. He argued that a unified approach to regulations and standards would not only bolster the credibility of individual programmes but also strengthen the region’s collective reputation as a reliable and transparent destination for investment migration. This harmonization could involve sharing best practices, standardizing due diligence procedures, and establishing a common framework for addressing potential risks, ultimately creating a more robust and secure investment environment.

The Grenadian Prime Minister also underscored the importance of restoring investor confidence through greater transparency. By openly addressing concerns and implementing measures to enhance accountability, Caribbean nations can demonstrate their commitment to upholding the highest standards of integrity within their CIPs. Transparency in programme operations, including the allocation of funds generated through CBI, is crucial for maintaining trust and attracting reputable investors. Moreover, Mitchell emphasized the need for sustainable growth anchored in responsible investment, ensuring that the benefits of CBI programmes contribute to the long-term economic development of the region and the well-being of its citizens.

Mitchell’s leadership came at a crucial juncture, particularly with St. Kitts and Nevis, the pioneer of CBI, facing significant challenges related to credibility and revenue. His call for regional alignment resonated deeply within the closed-door sessions of CIS25, where prime ministers, CIU heads, and the Joint Regional Communications Centre (JRCC) engaged in strategic discussions on critical issues such as vetting, regulation, and marketing. This collaborative approach, facilitated by Mitchell’s leadership, signifies a potential turning point for the region’s CBI sector, paving the way for a more unified and resilient approach to navigating the complex landscape of investment migration.

The summit, coordinated by Open Interactive, a firm from St. Kitts and Nevis, proved a resounding success. Ironically, the Prime Minister of St. Kitts and Nevis chose not to attend, highlighting a potential shift in regional influence. Mitchell’s prominent role and proactive stance suggest that Grenada may be poised to assume a leadership position within the Caribbean’s investment migration sphere. As St. Kitts and Nevis grapples with its current challenges, Grenada, under Mitchell’s guidance, presents a model of stability and forward-thinking, potentially reshaping the future of CBI in the region. The success of CIS25 and the momentum generated by Mitchell’s vision offer a glimmer of hope for the Caribbean’s CBI sector, provided other nations embrace his call for collaboration, transparency, and a renewed commitment to integrity.