Trade Imbalance: STATIN says Jamaica’s merchandise deficit widened in Jan–May 2026: imports hit US$3.218b versus exports of US$674.7m—about 4.8 times more imports than exports—driven by higher raw materials, intermediate goods and transport equipment, while exports fell 12.5% on a 44.3% drop in crude material exports (excluding fuels). Tourism–Agri Link: Government says local farmers should get first preference supplying hotels, resorts and restaurants under Tourism 3.0, using long-term contracts to cut import dependence and keep tourism dollars in rural communities. Offshore Energy: United Oil commissioned a rig study for Jamaica’s offshore licence as a farm-out deadline nears, signalling momentum in exploration planning. Tourism Resilience Push: Jamaica will host World Travel Week in Negril (Oct 10–15) and launch Tourism Resilience Awards alongside World Travel Awards. Music Rights Fight: Dancehall star Shabba Ranks has launched a US court battle to reclaim publishing rights tied to songs under a 1989 “works made for hire” dispute with Greensleeves. Food Security & Innovation: TEF’s Tourism Innovation Incubator continues supporting tourism tech entrepreneurs, including a cohort story on turning ideas into operating businesses. Local Business & Jobs: Food For The Poor Jamaica Band Camp graduated 65 students, reinforcing music as skills-building for youth.