I know we don't like import duties in Barbados. But here's a small secret: that's the *entire* point. Policymakers want you to be so upset with the high costs that you decide to make as much of whatever you're selling right here in Barbados.

Yes, there are things that we'll never be able to produce here, but honestly as a country we're not even trying. The retail business of importing and selling is low-profit, low value-added, and can even destroy domestic jobs.

Every time you go to import something, ask yourself: "can I make this right here in Barbados?" Even if you're just assembling stuff, it's moving in the right direction. It's time to make, not buy.