NASSAU, BAHAMAS — The United Kingdom is positioning itself to support economic growth in Grand Bahamathrough investment, technical expertise, and strategic partnerships, British High Commissioner Smita Rossetti told business leaders at the 27th Annual Grand Bahama Business Outlook.
Rossetti outlined significant opportunities for UK-Bahamas collaboration, highlighting up to $1 billion in British-backed financing available through UK Export Finance (UKEF). The funding offers long-term, low-risk support with a requirement that at least 20 percent of project content come from the UK, while allowing the remaining 80 percent to be sourced locally—an arrangement designed to stimulate job creation, skills development, and economic expansion in The Bahamas.
“The frameworks are there. The finance is there. The expertise is there,” Rossetti said, stressing that clear planning, strong local partnerships, and defined priorities are essential to unlocking Grand Bahama’s potential.
She pointed to successful UK-supported projects across the region as models, including hospital development in Guyana, low-emission bus systems in Mexico City, and energy transition initiatives in Brazil.
Rossetti also emphasized the role of innovation and sustainability in future growth, highlighting emerging financial tools such as blue carbon credits that link environmental protection with economic opportunity. Education and workforce development were identified as critical pillars, including scholarships and training partnerships like the Chevening Scholarships program aimed at building long-term human capital and resilience.
Encouraging local businesses to engage with UK partners, Rossetti said opportunities span infrastructure, maritime industries, energy, and the creative sector.
“Across all sectors, these partnerships build resilience, creativity, and opportunity,” she said. “We are ready to invest and to partner.”
