The Barbados Private Sector Association has backed calls for stronger support for manufacturers, as industry leaders warn that imported construction materials are eroding domestic capacity during the island’s building boom.

James Clarke, chairman of the Barbados Private Sector Association (BPSA), has signalled broad support for the Barbados Manufacturers’ Association (BMA) in highlighting the vital need to champion Barbadian industry.

Responding to BMA president Rosie Noel, who warned that the island is “outsourcing its own survival” by importing foreign building supplies during a historic construction boom, Clarke urged cross-sector collaboration while stressing the need to establish clear standards and compliance frameworks.