AGP Executive Report

Caribbean Power Glitch: Jamaica suffered an island-wide blackout after a system failure, with the Jamaica Public Service saying restoration would begin in phases but not yet sharing a cause or full timeline. World Cup Viewing Deals: Guyana’s ENet secured exclusive FIFA World Cup 2026 broadcast rights, streaming all 104 matches via its TV app and platforms, while Jamaica’s outage comes as fans gear up for matchday crowds. Venezuela-Russia Trade Push: Venezuela and Russia advanced a plan to boost bilateral trade to $400M by decade’s end, with exports like cocoa, coffee, and seafood highlighted. Mobile Rewards in Puerto Rico: T-Mobile marked 10 years of T-Mobile Tuesdays, touting 1.4B redeemed offers and $1B+ in value since 2016. Energy at the Consumer Level (India): India launched E85 flex-fuel, stressing it’s for compatible vehicles only—aimed at cheaper ethanol blends without forcing E20 users off the road. Fragrance M&A: Givaudan will acquire a majority stake in Eurofragance to accelerate global expansion while keeping Eurofragance independent. Caribbean Banking Watch: A Caribbean FIU director warned banks to stay aligned with international anti-money-laundering norms to avoid “derisking.” Ride-Hailing Expansion: Uber officially launched in Nepal with Uber Go/Comfort and Uber Bike, testing different driver payment models and eyeing growth beyond rides.

Beauty Retail Expansion: rhode (e.l.f. Beauty) goes direct-to-consumer in Mexico for the first time, marking its Latin America debut, and adds seven European markets alongside its Summer ’26 launch. Travel Disruption: Sunwing Vacations and WestJet Vacations suspend all Cuba operations indefinitely, extending a summer pause and leaving travelers scrambling with rebooking or refunds. Food & Consumer Culture: Dotcups—single-serving sponge cups topped with frosting and sprinkles—keep going viral, driving store runs and DIY recreations. Retail & Supply Chain Stress: Shake Shack says a truckload of ribs was stolen in Mexico, nearly disrupting supply for a new BBQ rib sandwich. Sports Commerce: FIFA cancels about 60 World Cup tickets after a website checkout error, inviting fans to pay the correct amount. Agriculture & Trade Signals: Analysts say China met some U.S. soybean purchase commitments but not all, leaving demand sentiment uncertain. Public Health & Livestock: Florida issues emergency rules after new world screwworm detection in Texas, tightening animal movement and inspections.

Food & Retail Local Impact: Applebee’s is closing its Calexico, California restaurant after more than 20 years, citing a prolonged drop in customer traffic and raising worries for workers in a tight local job market. AI for Consumer Commerce: Vantegrate launched Sellium, an AI sales agent for WhatsApp aimed at handling complex product questions, pricing, and quote workflows while keeping human sales teams in control. Agriculture & Consumer Prices Risk: The New World screwworm fly has been confirmed in south Texas for the first time since 1966, triggering movement restrictions and rancher alarm; officials say it’s not a food safety threat, but producers warn it could pressure beef supply and prices if it spreads. Energy & Infrastructure for Buyers: Siemens teamed with HighByte to expand its Industrial Edge ecosystem, pushing manufacturers toward easier AI use of factory data. Travel & Hospitality: Aruba’s Bucuti & Tara Beach Resort was named to Travel + Leisure’s 2026 T+L 500 list, a boost for the island’s tourism brand. Sports Consumer Watch: FIFA acknowledged a World Cup ticketing glitch that gave about 60 fans “0 USD” tickets and is asking them to pay the correct amount or risk losing seats.

Livestock Shock: The USDA confirmed a New World screwworm case in a Texas calf, the first in decades, raising alarms for ranchers and the beef supply chain even as officials say there’s no food-safety risk. Retail & Consumer Tech: Meta rolled out its Business Agent across WhatsApp and Messenger (and now Instagram), aiming to let small businesses automate customer questions, scheduling, and product recommendations. Payments & Shopping: Bank of America plans cross-border real-time payments next quarter, targeting faster international transfers for remittances and e-commerce payouts. Food & Dining: A new board game lounge and restaurant opened in Grand Rapids, while Texas’ Kool Beanz marked 30 years of community-first dining. Auto Market Watch: GAC reported May sales growth, with NEVs surging and self-owned brands driving momentum. Gift Cards: A new report forecasts the global gift card market will more than double by 2033, fueled by digital payments and mobile-first gifting.

New World screwworm hits Texas: USDA confirmed the first case in Texas since 1966 in a calf near La Pryor, triggering quarantines, movement controls, and expanded surveillance as ranchers worry about herd losses and beef price pressure. Forced-labor tariff plans ripple through LatAm: The U.S. proposed 12.5% tariffs on 54 economies (including Brazil, Colombia, and others) under Section 301, with hearings set for July—raising stakes for importers and exporters across the region. Alphabet funds the AI arms race: Alphabet’s $45B stock sale (with another $40B planned) underscores relentless investor demand for AI infrastructure—an indirect consumer-tech signal for LatAm markets. Beef supply squeeze in Europe, pressure on prices: UK data shows Irish beef imports down while other suppliers gain share, as farmers and processors debate how fast price cuts are going. World Cup retail momentum: FIFA-linked shopping demand keeps building, from ticket resale chatter to merchandise sourcing challenges—good news for retailers and logistics players in the Americas.

US Tariff Shock for LATAM: Brazil’s Lula hit back at proposed U.S. tariffs, saying he “cannot accept the treatment” after Washington moved to levy 25% duties on some Brazilian imports and floated broader forced-labor-linked levies up to 12.5% across dozens of partners. Payments Under Fire: The U.S. cited Brazil’s Pix instant payments system among reasons for the tariff plan, adding pressure on consumer fintech and cross-border commerce. World Cup Retail & Consumer Push: McDonald’s rolls out World Cup meals with collectible cups, while a survey warns the tournament could cost employers up to $17B in lost productivity as workers adjust schedules to watch. Amazon Goes Prime in South Africa: Amazon launched Prime in SA with free delivery plus entertainment and gaming perks—another sign of subscription-led retail expansion in the region. Food & Supply Chain Stress: A “Super El Niño” risk could intensify droughts and water stress across parts of Latin America, with knock-on effects for food systems. Brazil Consumer Tech & Trade Tension: Lula also vowed to find new partners as the tariff fight escalates, while the U.S. and Mexico push USMCA talks that could reshape auto sourcing rules.

Trade Policy Shock: The U.S. Trade Representative proposed new 10%–12.5% tariffs on imports from 60 economies after a forced-labor probe, naming countries including Mexico, Canada, Pakistan, Brazil, and others; the plan is open for public comment. Tariff Tweaks for Consumers: Separately, the Trump administration adjusted metals tariffs and cut some duties on agricultural equipment and HVAC systems (25% to 15%), with temporary rates through 2027. Mexico–U.S. Border Security: U.S. authorities uncovered a sophisticated tunnel under the border tied to a $45M cocaine operation, seizing more than 1,000 kg. Payments & Retail Tech: Juspay joined Mastercard’s Engage network to expand Click to Pay in Asia, building on a Brazil rollout. Tourism Pulse (Caribbean): Aruba reported stay-over arrivals up 9.6% through April, signaling continued demand. Maritime Admin Upgrade: The Bahamas Maritime Authority rolled out a blockchain-based digital seafarer record book to replace paper documentation. EV Supply Chain: Tata Motors plans to license Chery’s platform for premium EVs in India, aiming to restart its delayed Avinya rollout.

Air Travel & Tourism: Avianca launched new nonstop flights between San Francisco and Guatemala City (4 weekly flights through Aug. 31), boosting access to Antigua and other Central America hotspots. Caribbean Hospitality: The Dominican Republic scored multiple nominations at the Wave Awards 2026, competing for top Caribbean destination honors as hotel brands like Club Med and Hyatt Inclusive Collection vie across categories. Retail & Consumer Spending: Dollar General reported Q1 sales up 3.4% to $10.8B, with same-store sales rising 2% as shoppers lean into value and convenience amid higher gas costs; the retailer also opened new stores in the U.S. and Mexico. Trade & Tariffs: The U.S. proposed a 25% tariff on many Brazil imports under Section 301, with a July 15 action deadline and broad (but not total) exemptions. Compliance Watch: U.S. terrorism designations of Brazil’s PCC and Comando Vermelho raise major legal and sanctions risks for companies doing business in Brazil. Public Safety: Authorities charged four people after uncovering a California-Mexico cocaine tunnel beneath a Buy 4 Less store near Otay Mesa, seizing over a ton of cocaine. Food Policy: A review finds Chile’s black sugar warning labels cut sugar purchases at the population level, but the effect largely fades for lower-income shoppers.

Obesity Drugs Access: A new report argues generic GLP-1 obesity drugs are unlikely to reach the people who need them most fast enough, as patent expirations and manufacturing capacity don’t automatically translate into affordability. Retail & E-commerce: Amazon confirmed Prime Day 2026 runs June 23–26, a four-day, Prime-only shopping push with frequent deal drops across categories that matter to LATAM shoppers too. Consumer Safety & Health: Doctors weigh in on “less bad” fast-food picks, steering readers toward higher-protein orders and away from certain high-processed, low-protein meals. Brand & Legal Drama: Patagonia’s trademark lawsuit over its logo versus drag performer Pattie Gonia is framed as a high-risk moment for brands that rely on strong identity. Food & Drink: Rico Royale Tequila celebrates Double Gold at the Agavos Awards, while Puerto Rico’s Tres Santos Mezcal marks its first anniversary and plans wider retail distribution. Cross-border Crime: U.S. prosecutors allege a $45M cocaine tunnel beneath a “Buy 4 Less” store near the Mexico border, with four charged. Business Complexity: TMF Group’s index flags Mexico and Brazil as among the hardest LATAM jurisdictions for foreign firms to comply with, pointing to shifting rules and compliance burdens.

Caribbean Travel & Spirits: Rum tourism is shifting from “nice-to-have” to a full brand-building playbook, blending heritage, hospitality, education and retail as Caribbean arrivals keep rising while alcohol channels face softer value growth. Energy & Prices: Venezuela’s oil exports ticked up to 1.25M bpd in May, with more cargoes to the U.S., India and Europe—good news for supply, but still a reminder how fast consumer costs can swing. Healthcare (Antibiotics): Wockhardt’s Zaynich (cefepime + zidebactam) won U.S. FDA approval for complicated UTIs, targeting drug-resistant Gram-negative infections. Food Costs (Trade Policy): Tomato prices jumped about 40% year-over-year, with tariffs on Mexican imports cited as a major driver of higher grocery bills. Consumer Tech/Travel: Roku launched “Soccer Zone” for World Cup viewing across major apps in the U.S., Canada, Mexico, Brazil, Colombia and Argentina. Retail & CX: MISUMI Americas expanded its AI-powered supply chain platform to speed mechanical sourcing and reduce procurement complexity. Caribbean Hospitality: Royalton Vessence Barbados officially opened, leaning hard into destination experiences, not just rooms. Digital Safety (Brazil): Brazil opened public consultation on age-verification guidance, including biometric options, as regulators tighten rules for youth online.

Premium Spirits Branding: Mexico’s Lobos 1707 founder Diego Osorio leans on storytelling and sherry-finished experimentation to stand out in premium tequila. Ecuador–Colombia Trade: Ecuador will scrap a 100% tariff on Colombian goods starting June 1, easing a dispute tied to border security and illicit economies. Consumer Tech & Sports: OPPO used the UEFA Champions League final to push camera/AI features aimed at football fans—another reminder that devices are chasing sports moments. Youth Health Watch: Caribbean reporting highlights how vaping is spreading among students, with “nicotine-free” products still appealing to youth and normalizing use. Auto Affordability in North America: Nissan says it’s boosting U.S. production but wants USMCA talks to avoid making it harder to build lower-cost models in Mexico. Caribbean Travel Demand: Airlift and tourism coverage points to continued momentum for destinations like Punta Cana, while promoting lesser-known alternatives. Retail/Finance in LATAM: Cházaro, a 175-year Mexican family business, opened a Dubai HQ to expand across the Middle East, signaling luxury trade routing. Market Signals (Global, Consumer-adjacent): New forecasts flag growth in cruelty-free cosmetics and video surveillance—both tied to shifting consumer values and home/security spending.

Online Gaming & Consumer Spending: DigiPlus says it expects a steadier Q2 after a weak start to the year, pointing to stabilized results, margin-improvement initiatives, and a Brazil relaunch planned for June, while also building toward a South Africa expansion in 2027. Travel & Consumer Disruption: U.S. airline, travel, and retail groups warn that any halt to international processing at Newark (and other “sanctuary city” airports) could trigger chaos for passengers and cargo. Health & Pharma: Pfizer reported Phase 3 BREAKWATER results for BRAFTOVI plus cetuximab and FOLFIRI in BRAF V600E metastatic colorectal cancer, with median progression-free survival nearly doubling versus the comparator. World Cup Consumer Rights: New York and New Jersey AGs opened an investigation into FIFA ticketing for MetLife Stadium matches, citing complaints about seat location and inflated pricing tied to dynamic ticketing. Digital Consumer Culture: A surge in “digital dysmorphia” is being linked to social media filters and selfie distortion, raising concerns about body image impacts. Caribbean Retail/Auto: Great Wall Motor opens Jamaica’s first dedicated showroom on June 3 as the brand grows locally. Energy Costs: Brazil extended fuel price controls for two months to cushion consumers from global oil volatility tied to the Iran conflict.

Climate & Legal Stakes: A UN-backed vote affirmed an International Court of Justice ruling that countries have a legal duty to limit global warming, setting up how climate cases may be argued even if the opinion isn’t enforceable. Food Safety Watch: South Carolina inspectors issued a rare C grade to a Lancaster County Subway in May, while two York County sites and a QuikTrip also briefly slipped to B before correcting issues—another reminder that fixes matter fast. Colombia-Ecuador Trade Tension: Colombia accused Ecuador’s President Daniel Noboa of “deliberate interference” in its election after Noboa moved to lift tariffs tied to a candidate deal; Ecuador says the tariff change follows Andean Community rules. Beef Price Pressure in the Americas: Record-high U.S. beef prices are tied to a shrinking cattle herd and drought, with Mexico’s New World screwworm outbreak now raising fears of even tighter supply near the Texas border. World Cup Consumer Push (LATAM-linked): Brands are rolling out World Cup deals and merch, while FIFA bag rules are shaping what fans can bring—expect more last-minute shopping across the region. Guyana Energy Boom: Guyana is positioned to benefit from Iran-linked oil market shifts, with oil-driven growth and pressure to translate revenues into broader consumer and infrastructure gains.

Auto & Trade: Stellantis confirmed it will build a new Jeep SUV in India for global markets, using Tata’s ARGOS platform (with AWD as a must) and Tata’s 1.5L TGDi engine, targeting a 2028 launch and exports to 50+ countries across LATAM and beyond. USMCA Talks: The Trump administration is pushing for much higher North American vehicle content to qualify for lower US tariffs, with negotiators seeking 82% regional content and a big US production share—raising stakes for Mexico’s auto supply chains. Food Prices Reality Check: An AP review challenges Trump’s claim that food is getting more affordable, pointing to broader grocery inflation pressures and shipping-cost risks that still hit consumers. Retail Beauty Deal: John Lewis’ “Summer Glow Box” bundles 11 premium beauty brands (including Clinique and Sol de Janeiro) for under £50 with cashback—an easy win for deal-hunters. Consumer Health & Safety: USDA says a flesh-eating screwworm case was found in northern Mexico near the US border, a potential threat to cattle producers if it spreads. Banking Moves: CIBC plans to sell its Caribbean business for $1.6B to Butterfield, reshaping regional financial services and digital priorities. Energy Transition: Europe saved about $51B (€51.4B) in 2025 by cutting fossil fuel imports, with renewables expected to keep cushioning price shocks.

Brazil Macro: Brazil’s GDP grew 1.1% in Q1 2026 (IBGE), with household consumption up 1% and investment up 3.5%, while exports fell 1.7% and imports rose 4.4%—a mixed setup for consumer demand. Colombia Election Security: Colombia heads to the polls with 246,000 security personnel deployed and 386 municipalities on alert amid political violence concerns, keeping uncertainty front and center for shoppers and retailers. Caribbean Banking Deal: Butterfield is set to buy a majority stake in CIBC Caribbean in a US$1.8bn transaction, with officials saying day-to-day operations won’t change immediately—watch for knock-on effects in payments and consumer credit. Food Safety Recall Watch: USDA-linked recalls keep hitting ready-to-eat meats, with glass-shard issues behind major alerts affecting products sold in the US and exported to Canada and Mexico. Consumer Cost Pressure: US tomato prices rose about 40% year over year, turning a staple into a visible inflation stress test for households. Retail/Travel Consumer Angle: Costco is contacting shoppers tied to potentially insect-infested grape vine pants and citrus plants, while World Cup-related retail and travel promotions keep rolling across the region.

World Cup Consumer Watch: New York and New Jersey are investigating FIFA’s ticketing practices, including “variable pricing” and stadium seat remapping that fans say left them with worse deals. Sports Betting Boom: Analysts expect World Cup betting revenue to top $50B, with more interest in player props and custom “bet builder” options. Latin America Trade & Logistics: Paraguay and Brazil are in the final stretch of the Capricorn Bioceanic Corridor, aiming to cut export transit times to Asia by 10–15 days. Insurance & Risk Coverage: Mapfre is expanding its Global Risks unit, pushing more growth in Europe and the U.S., including cyber and parametric insurance. Agriculture & Climate Risk: IICA warns a potential Super El Niño plus fertilizer stress could hit rural incomes and food security across Latin America and the Caribbean. Travel Retail Spotlight: London Supply Group highlighted sustainability and gender-lens investing at GLI Forum Latam in Lima. Consumer Safety/Health: CBP launched a campaign to stop the spread of the New World screw-worm fly near the U.S.-Mexico border.