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In 2002, the Government of Barbados in a move supported by the CARICOM initiative to set up national coalitions of service industries in the respective member countries established, the Barbados Coalition of Service Industries Inc. (BCSI). The BCSI was established as a public-private partnership where there was a strategic marriage between government oversight and private sector efficiency, all directed at strengthening and diversifying the services industry of Barbados in the face of the global challenge.
The BCSI formed a part of a larger CARICOM movement to mobilise the regional services sectors in view of the various international trade agreements to which member states are signatory. Furthermore, the BCSI along with its sister coalitions through out the region, are envisioned as eventually forming the fabric of a Caribbean Coalition of Service Industries under the auspices of CARICOM.
In 2003, the Government of Barbados committed its full support to the BCSI and with it, the mantle of the BCSI was to develop, strengthen and diversify the local services industry in spite of the many challenges and opportunities that lie within the global marketplace. As a result of this, the BCSI commits itself to upholding excellence and the highest standards.
The BCSI, as of now, represents the interests of approximately thirty-nine service associations comprising in excess of three thousand Barbadian Services Providers in both the public and private sphere.
The core objectives of the BCSI include:
- To promote further the development, strengthening and competitiveness of Barbadian Service Providers.
- To educate Barbadian Service Providers on the relevant aspects of the CSME, WTO, EPAs, along with any other government policies or issues that can impact on trade in services.
- Aid in creating a conducive environment where Barbadian Service Providers can diversify by representing their interest through lobbying, and aiding in the facilitation of new target markets.
- Aid in the facilitation of high services standards amongst Barbadian Service Providers.
- Keep Barbadian Service Providers knowledgeable of export opportunities and promote export activities.
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