Press Release
Caribbean rum producers will present to Caricom governments specially developed 50th Anniversary Rum Blends as a way of honouring the achievements of the Caribbean Community over the past 50 years. These contributions from the rum industry will mark the culmination of a year-long celebration of the 50th anniversary of the Caribbean
Community.Producers in virtually all rum-producing Caricom member states, thirteen in all, members of the regional grouping WIRSPA (the West Indies Rum & Spirits Producers Association), will each individually present their products to national governments during June. The products being showcased by regional rum producers will be distributed to Caricom member states and international representatives abroad, with some products being available for sale in local markets. Several of the special edition rums are unique blends that will only be available for this purpose and in very limited quantities.The presentations in each Caricom state will be followed by a presentation of the full set of thirteen expressions to the Heads of Government at their next meeting in Grenada in July 2024. This presentation will mark a highlight of the region’s 50th anniversary commemoration. These products showcase the remarkable diversity of Caribbean rum through the common theme of the region’s achievements over the past 50 years.
and one linked to the region’s important tourism industry, the products also celebrate the achievements of the industry and its contribution to the regional economy, as the largest agri-based export product. The occasion also recognises how closely the industry has worked with regional governments to open export markets. This collaborative approach over many decades has enabled Caribbean rum to become the most sought-after rum in the international market. WIRSPA also recently celebrated its 50th anniversary as the representative of rum producers in all Caricom states, as well as the Dominican Republic.