WIRSPA Announces New Publication – Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) Digest
The West Indies Rum & Spirits Producers’ Association (WIRSPA) Chair Clement Lawrence announced the publication of the Association’s new Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) Digest which is designed to showcase producer actions on responsible drinking, community support, sustainability initiatives, and governance.
“This first publication demonstrates an impressive level of activity by producers heading into 2026. Telling these stories is vital, not only to highlight the work being done across our industry, but to reinforce our commitment to responsibility, community, and transparency.”
The announcement was made when the Board of Directors convened on Wednesday, December 3. This meeting brought together country directors and rum producers from all 15 member countries for a wide-ranging review of industry developments, market challenges, and shared priorities for the year ahead.
Directors reflected on what has been a difficult trading year in the United States, where the combination of inflation, dampened consumer demand, and tariffs continue to put pressure on the spirits sector, including Caribbean rum. Feedback from producers noted that these challenges served to strengthen the resolve of the industry to develop other markets and to engage Caribbean governments in this diversification thrust.
As the Caribbean moves toward the festive season, a period deeply rooted in family gatherings and community celebrations, Directors endorsed the need for strengthened messaging on moderation and responsible drinking. All brands in the grouping reported increased investment in responsible drinking communication for the holiday period.
Jamaica Shares Early Learnings Following Hurricane Melissa
The Board received an update from Jamaican producers on the significant impact of Hurricane Melissa, which affected several operations—particularly in the western parishes of the country. Producers shared initial lessons from their response and recovery efforts. Directors commended companies such as J. Wray & Nephew for their swift post-hurricane relief support.
A central focus of the discussion was the importance of staff welfare, with producers emphasising the critical need for both material assistance and mental-health support following such events. With stronger and more frequent storms predicted for the region, Directors noted the urgency of embedding resilience planning into all aspects of operations.
Strengthening Collaboration Across Large and Small Producers
Deputy Chair Anthony Bento of Antigua Distillery highlighted the unique strength of the WIRSPA network: “Our grouping brings together both small and large producers in a way that few industries manage. What makes WIRSPA effective is how well we work together—sharing experiences, challenges, and solutions. That collaboration is an essential ingredient in our success as a regional industry.”
Commitment to Continued Advocacy and Industry Development
The Board also reviewed progress across sustainability, trade, regulatory developments, and responsible drinking initiatives, and workstreams proposed for 2026. This includes expanded efforts to protect market access, strengthening regional rum education and tourism, and deepening technical collaboration across distilleries.
The Directors expressed confidence that, despite global headwinds, the Caribbean rum industry will continue to demonstrate resilience, innovation, and leadership.
WIRSPA Chair Clement Lawrence closed the meeting by underscoring the importance of sustained advocacy and collective effort:
“We know the challenges in our markets are real, but so too is the strength of this industry. Across responsible drinking, sustainability, trade, and technical development, our shared agenda for 2026 is ambitious and achievable. The resilience shown by our producers—whether navigating global pressures or rebuilding after natural disasters—reminds us that this industry endures because it works together. WIRSPA will continue to advocate strongly for our members and to promote the positive contributions our producers make across the Caribbean.”