📈 Cayman Islands sees surge in food imports due to population growth

The Cayman Islands has experienced a significant increase in food and drink imports in the first quarter of 2023, growing by almost a quarter compared to the same period in 2022. This surge reflects a rise in the island's population, which is officially nearing 90,000 but is believed to be closer to 100,000. The total value of imports increased by 1.5 percent, from just under $335 million to just over $340 million, despite a decline in the value of industrial type goods and petroleum-related goods. 📊

While the growth in the value of imports benefits the public purse and duty collection, it also presents challenges for the country's infrastructure and environment, particularly in terms of waste management. The increase in consumption, driven by the return of tourists and a growing population, could exacerbate waste issues. Questions have been raised about the remaining space at the George Town dump, and there are concerns that Grand Cayman could run out of space for rubbish before the completion of a waste-to-energy plant. 🌍

Transport-related imports fell at the start of 2023, but car imports rose by 3.5 percent, with the Cayman Islands importing $15.5 million worth of cars in just three months. This persistent increase in vehicle imports contributes to the country's growing traffic congestion. The United States continues to be the main supplier of goods to the Cayman Islands, but there has been a notable increase in imports from Jamaica and the UK. 🚗