Castries, Saint Lucia – As the 2025 cruise season brings thousands of visitors to Saint Lucia’s shores, the move toward digital payments is gaining traction among local vendors. A follow-up assessment by the National Competitiveness and Productivity Council (NCPC) has revealed that a number of vendors at the Vendors Arcade have successfully transitioned to accepting digital payments, exceeding initial expectations.
This transformation follows an initiative launched during Productivity Awareness Week 2022, when the NCPC, in collaboration with the Saint Lucia Bankers Association and the Eastern Caribbean Central Bank (ECCB), introduced vendors to point-of-sale (POS) machines. The goal was to equip them with the tools and financial knowledge needed to enhance sales productivity and modernize their businesses.
Speaking on the significance of this shift, Peter “Ras Ipa” Isaac, President of the Saint Lucia Vendors Association, noted:
“It couldn’t be more timely, especially in today’s era of digital banking and digital currency.”
Former President of the Saint Lucia Bankers Association, Medford Francis, added:
“Our mission was to bring long-term benefits, not just for individual businesses but also for Saint Lucia’s reputation as a leading tourist destination.”
During the follow-up assessment, vendors and cruise passengers alike shared their experiences and perspectives on the impact of cashless transactions. Many vendors highlighted the increase in sales opportunities, as more tourists now prefer using credit and debit cards over cash.
“Sometimes the people don’t have cash, and they only have the card. That’s the way sometimes you can make some money.” – Joycline Augusta, Vendor.
“It’s more profitable using a card, and I never regretted it. Before, I had to rely on my sister’s machine, but now that I have my own, it’s made a big difference.” – Belinda, Vendor
“Cash is convenient, but depending on the size of the purchase, the card will be fine.” – Quante Williamson, Cruise Passenger
“As vendors, we all need to get the machine because in time to come, I don’t think we will use money anymore.” – Theresa Theodore, Vendor
The NCPC views this progress as a significant step toward financial inclusion and business efficiency in Saint Lucia. With more vendors embracing digital transactions, local businesses can increase sales, improve customer experience, and strengthen their competitiveness in the tourism-driven economy.
The council encourages all vendors to explore digital payment options and take full advantage of the opportunities provided by modern financial technology.
