Cayman Chamber Calls for Policy Execution as Business Pressures Intensify

The Cayman Islands Chamber of Commerce has issued a clear and data-backed call for improved policy execution, stability and accountability, following the presentation of its 2025 State of Business Survey by Chamber President Omari Corbin at the 2026 Cayman Chamber Economic Forum. Addressing business leaders, policymakers, and stakeholders, the Chamber emphasised that while Cayman’s economy remains resilient, the cumulative impact of rising costs, policy uncertainty, and operational constraints is placing an increasing strain on businesses across all sectors and sizes. “The message from business is consistent and unmistakable,” President Corbin said. “The issues are not new — but the tolerance for inefficiency has reached its limit.” Survey Findings Reveal Growing Strain The Chamber’s annual State of Business Survey provides an evidence-based assessment of how businesses are experiencing the Cayman economy. Comparing results from 2024 and 2025, the data reveals that while challenges remain broadly the same, their intensity has increased significantly. Micro businesses, often owner-operated with fewer than five employees, remain the most exposed. Many reported flat or declining revenues, with a growing number operating at a loss or relying on personal funds to stay afloat. Rising government fees, labour and health insurance costs, utilities, rent and banking charges continue to dominate concerns, with immigration policy rigidity and prolonged vacancies now viewed as existential risks. Small businesses reported generally stable revenues, but profitability pressures have widened. While these firms remain willing to grow, many stated expansion would only occur if policy implementation improves. Businesses made clear they are not opposed to regulation, but to inconsistency, delay and uncertainty.
Medium-sized businesses emerged as a critical early warning group. Concerns flagged in 2024 have crystallised into clear caution in 2025, with firms highlighting the simultaneous rise of labour, insurance, energy, rent and compliance costs. Policy layering without adequate transition periods was repeatedly identified as a growing vulnerability. Large employers continue to report growth but flagged rising strategic risks, particularly related to workforce availability, immigration policy and energy costs. Respondents stressed the need to move beyond prolonged policy discussion and into implementation, especially in areas affecting essential services. Across all business sizes, immigration reform, cost escalation, workforce availability, housing affordability and regulatory efficiency remain the most consistently cited constraints to sustainability and growth. From Intention to Execution The Chamber stressed that the business community remains committed and resilient, but that 2025 marks a turning point. “What has changed is not the nature of the concerns, but the urgency,” Corbin noted. “Execution now matters more than intention.” These findings directly reinforce the Chamber’s three-year Advocacy Agenda, structured around: • Building a Future-Ready Workforce • Sustaining Economic Success • Advancing the Quality of Life Dedicated task forces are already active under each pillar, addressing issues such as immigration policy reform, education and skills development, energy security, infrastructure planning, housing affordability and cost-of-living pressures.
Government Accountability Scorecard The Chamber also announced progress on its Government Accountability Scorecard, a public-facing tool designed to track government commitments against measurable outcomes. Following the release of the Government’s Strategic Policy Statement, the Chamber will evaluate alignment with its advocacy pillars and develop a transparent framework to monitor progress over time. A request for proposals will be finalised later this month to engage appropriate expertise in collaboration with the government. Once complete, the scorecard will be fully accessible to the public. A Strong, Independent Voice As President Corbin approaches the conclusion of his term, he reaffirmed the Chamber’s role as an independent and evidence-based advocate for business and the wider community. “The Chamber will continue to speak clearly, advocate forcefully and work constructively toward solutions,” he said. “Strong businesses are not separate from quality of life — they are fundamental to it.” Further reflections will be shared at the Chamber’s Annual General Meeting in late March or early April.