AGP Executive Report

Haiti–U.S. TPS Fallout: Haitian families in the U.S. are scrambling after the end of Temporary Protected Status, with care organizations reporting layoffs and vulnerable people losing Haitian caregivers as legal work rights disappear for about 350,000 Haitians. Border Trade Pressure: The Dominican Republic has started building a 14.5-kilometer border perimeter fence with Haiti, including watchtowers and patrol lanes, aiming to curb smuggling while keeping binational markets more “orderly and legal.” Humanitarian Strain from Returns: Rights groups say nearly 200,000 Haitians were forcibly returned in the first eight months of 2026, with Haiti lacking capacity to receive and reintegrate returnees—especially at border points with limited services. Regional Political Support: CARICOM’s Eminent Persons Group is in Haiti ahead of the Dec. 13 elections, meeting parties and stakeholders and urging better coordination among regional and international partners. Immigration Policy Shock Ripple: U.S. policy changes are also hitting other TPS groups, adding broader uncertainty for Caribbean and Central American labor and communities tied to migration-linked income. Sports Sponsorship Signal: Haiti-born Argentine prospect Kiki Ramos signed a Nike sponsorship deal, a small but notable win for Haitian talent abroad.

Border Security & Trade Flows: The Dominican Republic has started building a 14.5-kilometer perimeter fence in Jimaní, with a 13-foot height, surveillance towers, culverts and patrol roads, aiming to curb trafficking and illicit activity along the Haiti border. Humanitarian Pressure: Rights groups say nearly 200,000 Haitians were forcibly returned in the first eight months of 2026, mainly via the Dominican Republic, stressing Haiti’s limited capacity to receive and reintegrate returnees. Security & Elections: Haiti is urging the renewal of the OAS-backed Gang Suppression Force mandate as its 5,500-person deployment nears completion and the Dec. 13 election date approaches, arguing security gains are needed for state control. Regional Political Support: CARICOM’s Eminent Persons Group is in Haiti meeting political actors and stakeholders to support a Haitian-led stability roadmap ahead of elections. US Policy Shock for Haitian Families: The US continues extending flight restrictions on Port-au-Prince amid ongoing deportations tied to the end of protected status, while Haitian faith leaders warn of a “death of despair” linked to ICE pressure. Remittances Angle: Kingston and St Andrew captured most of Jamaica’s remittance growth after Hurricane Melissa—an indirect reminder of how migration-linked cash flows can shift fast after shocks.

Humanitarian Pressure: Rights group GARR says nearly 200,000 Haitians were forcibly returned in the first eight months of 2026—mostly from the Dominican Republic—while Haiti struggles to receive and reintegrate returnees, especially at border points with limited services. Deportation Fallout: The U.S. carried out another deportation flight to Cap-Haitien (101 people), bringing U.S. removals since TPS ended to 319, as thousands more face removal risk. Security & Elections: Haiti urged the renewal of the OAS-backed Gang Suppression Force mandate as it nears expiry Sept. 30, arguing the 5,500-person deployment is key to restoring territory ahead of the Dec. 13 vote. Regional Diplomacy: CARICOM’s Eminent Persons Group is in Haiti meeting political actors and stakeholders to support a Haitian-led stability and peace roadmap and push better coordination with partners. Political Process Risk: Haitian parties are challenging CEP membership verification, alleging rejected IDs and duplicate listings, raising doubts about whether the Dec. 13 election timetable can hold. Weather Shock: A tropical wave reportedly flooded Gonaïves, killing 1 and damaging 1,500 homes, adding strain to already fragile livelihoods.

Trade & Market Access: The U.S. extended duty-free access under AGOA and the Haiti HOPE/HELP trade programs through 2028, giving exporters and investors more certainty on preferential terms. Security & Elections: Haiti urged the UN to renew the Gang Suppression Force mandate as it nears expiry Sept. 30, arguing full deployment is key to restoring state authority ahead of the Dec. 13 vote. Regional Diplomacy: CARICOM’s Eminent Persons Group is in Haiti engaging political actors and stakeholders to support a Haitian-led stability roadmap with regional and international partners. Governance Process: Haitian parties challenged the CEP’s membership verification for the required 30,000 affiliates, alleging rejected IDs and duplicate listings, raising doubts about meeting the election timetable. Humanitarian & Climate Risk: A tropical wave flooded Gonaïves, killing 1, injuring 2, and damaging about 1,500 homes, underscoring Haiti’s recurring disaster vulnerability. Migration & Labor Impact: Multiple reports say the U.S. carried out another deportation flight to Haiti after TPS ended, while Haitian-American advocates warned of economic and family fallout from TPS terminations. Local Economy & Entrepreneurship: Haiti’s Ministry of Commerce and Industry pushed a plan to make the country a land of entrepreneurship, alongside updates on BRH governance and budget framework work for 2026–2027.

Deportations & TPS shock: The U.S. carried out its third straight deportation flight to Haiti, sending 101 Haitians to Cap-Haïtien (319 total on three flights since August) as Temporary Protected Status ends, raising fears for families and returnees amid Haiti’s gang violence and weak reintegration capacity. Elections under pressure: Haiti’s political parties are pushing the CEP to suspend or review membership verification, alleging rejected IDs and duplicate listings, while CARICOM’s Eminent Persons Group is in Port-au-Prince engaging parties and stakeholders ahead of the Dec. 13 vote. Security force renewal: Haiti’s foreign minister urged the UN Security Council to renew the Gang Suppression Force mandate before it expires Sept. 30, saying the force must be fully deployed to help elections proceed. Trade lifeline: The U.S. extended duty-free trade access under AGOA and Haiti’s HOPE/HELP through 2028, aiming to preserve market access and stability for Haiti-linked supply chains. Local disruption: A tropical wave flooded Gonaïves, killing 1 person and damaging about 1,500 homes, underscoring ongoing vulnerability that hits households and local economic activity.

Immigration & TPS Fallout: Haitian student Pierre Damas Bel’s apparent suicide in Ohio after being fitted with an ICE ankle monitor has reignited pressure on U.S. immigration enforcement, with faith leaders calling it a “death of despair” and activists urging “unshackle Springfield.” Deportations & Safety Risks: The U.S. deported 160+ people to Cap-Haïtien, landing in the north due to Port-au-Prince flight bans and gang violence, while advocates warn Haiti lacks capacity to receive returnees safely. Security & Elections: Haiti’s foreign minister urged the UN Security Council to renew and fully deploy the Gang Suppression Force ahead of the Dec. 13 vote, citing heavy casualties and election logistics like remaining identity card production. Trade & Jobs: The U.S. extended duty-free HOPE/HELP for Haiti and AGOA for Africa for two years, keeping a key cross-border textile lifeline running through 2028. Aviation & Costs: The FAA extended restrictions on flights into Port-au-Prince through March 2, 2027, reflecting ongoing threats to aircraft. Weather & Housing: A tropical wave flooded Gonaïves, killing 1, injuring 2, and damaging about 1,500 homes. Domestic Economy: Haiti revised fuel pump prices upward (gasoline to 700 gourdes; diesel to 770), and the Commerce Ministry launched a call for startups via a university incubator network.

Haiti–U.S. Deportations & Flight Restrictions: The U.S. extended its ban on civilian flights into Port-au-Prince and nearby areas until March 2, 2027, citing armed-group threats, even as deportation flights continue—reportedly sending 160+ people to Cap-Haïtien after TPS ended, with returnees facing immediate gang-related risks. Trade & Jobs: The U.S. House voted to renew Haiti HOPE/HELP for two more years (through Dec. 31, 2028), preserving duty-free access for thousands of textile/apparel product lines—key for Haiti’s export jobs and the Dominican co-production model. BRH & Inflation Focus: Haiti installed a new Board at the Bank of the Republic of Haiti (BRH), tasking it with cutting inflation to single digits, stabilizing the macro-financial system, and modernizing the payment system. Fuel & Transport Costs: Haiti revised pump prices upward (gasoline, diesel, kerosene), followed by an increase in public transport fares to match the new fuel costs. Entrepreneurship & Tech Skills: The Commerce Ministry launched a call for startups under AIESU (university incubators) and UNITECH announced a new lab for cybersecurity and AI, while Haiti also moved on AI adoption planning. Agriculture & Access: Rural road rehabilitation in Grand’Anse (PARSA) is nearing completion to help farmers reach markets more easily. Regional Diplomacy: Haiti and the Dominican Republic advanced talks on migration, trade, air connectivity, and border coordination, including continued support efforts for the GSF. Humanitarian Funding: Spain added €900,000 to the regional humanitarian fund supporting food security, shelters, protection, and WASH in Haiti.

Fuel & Transport Costs: Haiti revised pump prices upward, pushing gasoline to 700 gourdes (+50), diesel to 770 (+70), and kerosene to 765 (+75), and the government followed with a new public transport fare schedule tied to the updated fuel costs. Entrepreneurship Push: The Ministry of Commerce and Industry launched a call for expressions of interest for its AIESU program, aiming to pick eight university-linked startups for six months of structured support, including tracks in AI, agribusiness, green economy, health, and creative industries. Central Bank Leadership: Haiti installed the new BRH board, tasking it with cutting inflation toward single digits, strengthening financial stability, modernizing the payment system, advancing the financial market project, and supporting growth. Trade Relief for Jobs: The U.S. House voted to renew Haiti’s HOPE/HELP trade programs for two more years (to Dec. 31, 2028), a move Haiti says helps protect exports, investment, and industrial jobs. Security & Trade Friction: U.S. flight restrictions in Haiti were extended to March 2, 2027, while Dominican customs tightened controls on containers transiting to Haiti, citing tax fraud complaints and the disruption caused by Haiti’s insecurity. Rural Market Access: Under PARSA, rural road sections in Grand’Anse (Beaumont and Pestel) received provisional acceptance after rehabilitation to improve farmers’ access to markets. AI & Cyber Skills: UNITECH announced its first lab dedicated to cybersecurity and AI, and partners signed a roadmap effort for the responsible adoption of AI in Haiti.

Haiti–U.S. Trade: The U.S. Congress approved a two-year extension of AGOA and Haiti’s HOPE/HELP duty-free trade programs through end-2028, a boost for Haiti’s garment and textile exports and the regional supply chain linking Haiti, the Dominican Republic, and the U.S. Port-au-Prince Air Access: The FAA extended its ban on flights into Port-au-Prince until March 2, keeping aircraft from flying below 10,000 feet amid ongoing gang violence—another hit to connectivity and business operations. Security and Humanitarian Pressure: UN-linked reporting highlights the Aug. 24 Kenscoff massacre near Port-au-Prince, with 47 killed (including church executions), underscoring how violence disrupts daily commerce and livelihoods. Kidnapping Risk for Firms: Two South Korean workers kidnapped in Port-au-Prince in late July were released unharmed after about a month, showing how business travel remains exposed to gang control. Diaspora Economic Shock (U.S.): In Springfield, Ohio, Haitian TPS losses are driving fear and business closures, while a Haitian student’s death tied to an ICE ankle monitor has intensified scrutiny of immigration enforcement’s economic and social fallout. U.S. Policy Signal: A presidential order bars U.S. bulk-power equipment from “covered foreign entities,” listing Haiti among them, raising longer-term compliance and procurement questions for regional supply chains.

Kidnapping & Business Security: Two South Korean employees kidnapped by a gang in Port-au-Prince on July 31 were released unharmed after about a month, with Seoul citing coordination with Haitian authorities and diplomatic missions—another reminder that operating in Haiti carries serious risk. Trade & Textiles: The U.S. House approved a two-year extension of AGOA and Haiti HOPE/HELP (370-48), keeping duty-free access for Haitian apparel and supporting U.S.–Haiti trade ties through Dec. 31, 2028. Transit Rules: Haiti-bound goods transiting via the Dominican Republic face tighter Customs measures, including 24-hour advance requests and clearer deadlines, aimed at reducing irregularities and protecting formal trade. Immigration Shock to Haitian Livelihoods (US): Haitian TPS losses are hitting communities and businesses in places like Springfield and Miami, while advocates link a Haitian student’s death to ankle-monitoring and deportation pressure. Local Economy & Jobs: A Haitian entrepreneur opened a home-care franchise in Fort Lauderdale, highlighting diaspora-led services and employment growth.

Trade & Market Access: The U.S. House passed a stopgap funding bill and, alongside it, a bipartisan two-year extension of AGOA and Haiti HOPE/HELP, keeping Haiti’s duty-free textile access alive through Dec. 31, 2028—an important signal for exporters and jobs tied to apparel. Customs & Cross-Border Logistics: Dominican industry group AIRD backed new General Directorate of Customs measures to regulate goods transiting to Haiti, including 24-hour advance requests, departure deadlines, and tighter cargo supervision to reduce disruptions and improve compliance. Immigration Shock to Haitian Livelihoods: In the U.S., Haitian TPS losses are rippling into local economies and households, with reports of detentions in Springfield, Ohio, and community backlash after a Haitian student death tied to TPS ending and an ankle monitor. Deportation Flights & Community Impact: DHS-linked deportation imagery and the start of flights back to Haiti have sparked outrage, raising concerns about how removals affect Haitian families and economic stability in diaspora hubs. Haiti Security & Human Cost: UN-linked reporting on the Kenscoff massacre highlights how gang violence is worsening instability—an environment that directly undermines investment, trade, and everyday commerce. Business Risk Watch: A U.S. securities law firm flagged potential claims in York Space Systems (YSS) over alleged misleading statements about satellite software functionality before launches, a reminder that investor risk can spill into broader market sentiment.

Immigration & Jobs: The U.S. ended a January 2026 pause on immigrant visas for nationals of 75 countries, including Haiti, after a court order—while Haitian TPS holders face renewed deportation pressure as the first flights have already started. Deportations in Focus: Haitian community leaders condemned DHS video imagery tied to deportation flights, calling it dehumanizing, as border czar Tom Homan defended removals despite admitting he “doesn’t know the conditions in Haiti.” Community Impact: In Springfield, Ohio, faith leaders say ICE detained dozens of Haitians after TPS ended, describing the crackdown as tearing families and disrupting local work and services. Haiti Security & Humanitarian Cost: UN and church leaders reacted to the Kenscoff massacre and hostage-taking, with Pope Leo XIV calling for the immediate release of captives and renewed safety for civilians. Regional Trade & Cooperation: Haiti’s foreign ministry highlighted WTO-related visits, while the Dominican Republic and Honduras agreed to deepen cooperation—touching trade, investment, security, migration, and agriculture. Business/People: A Haitian restaurant owner in the U.S. warned TPS ending is “worse than COVID” for business, underscoring how policy shifts hit livelihoods fast.

Haiti TPS fallout hits U.S. communities: After the Supreme Court cleared the Trump administration to end Temporary Protected Status for Haitians, hundreds have been detained in places like Springfield, Ohio, and deportation flights to Haiti have resumed—while officials admit they “don’t know the conditions in Haiti,” raising fresh concerns for jobs, family stability, and local economies that rely on Haitian workers. Deportation pace and policy pressure: Reports say the administration plans to step up removals, including more frequent flights, as Haitian migrants lose work authorization and face arrest risk. Humanitarian strain in Haiti: Haiti’s child malnutrition picture worsened, with UNICEF citing a rise in acute malnutrition since 2023 amid insecurity and economic hardship. Gang violence and hostage crisis: Pope Leo XIV renewed calls for the release of hostages after the Kenscoff massacre, as funerals and international pressure grow. Diaspora support and local response: In the U.S., churches and community groups are mobilizing supplies and services for families affected by deportations. Regional business and security ties: The Dominican Republic and Honduras agreed to deepen cooperation on trade, investment, tourism, and security—issues that also intersect with migration pressures and Haiti’s instability.

Immigration & Jobs: The Trump administration is stepping up deportation flights to Haiti after ending TPS, with reports that flight frequency could rise from monthly to weekly—while Haitian communities in the U.S. say ICE detentions and ankle-monitoring are disrupting daily life and local business activity. Springfield Crackdown: Faith leaders in Springfield, Ohio, protested ICE actions against Haitians, saying the measures feel like “shackles” and are driving fear that keeps people from spending locally. Deportation Politics: Border czar Tom Homan defended the removals on CNN, admitting he doesn’t know Haiti’s conditions, as critics cite State Department travel warnings and allegations of mistreatment. Haiti Security Crisis: At the UN Security Council, the U.S. and UN officials urged faster deployment and stronger support for the Gang Suppression Force after the Kenscoff massacre and mass kidnappings, with calls for hostage releases and protection of civilians. Humanitarian & Health: UNICEF reported acute malnutrition among Haitian children rose from 5.1% (2023) to 7.4% (2026), warning insecurity and economic hardship are limiting access to food and care. Diplomacy: Pakistan urged rapid international backing for Haiti’s security institutions and stressed stopping illegal weapons flows.

Haiti Security & Hostages: Pope Leo XIV urged the “immediate” release of people kidnapped in the Kenscoff massacre, calling for an end to violence and concrete steps to protect civilians as UN figures cite 1,408 killed and 656 injured in Haiti in 2026’s second quarter. UN Push for Action: The UN’s Haiti envoy also demanded stronger international security support and faster deployment of the Gang Suppression Force, warning national institutions can’t handle gangs without help. Gang Attack Fallout: Hundreds attended funerals for victims of the Kenscoff attack that killed at least 47 and involved mass abductions, while UNICEF reported the release of women and children held by gangs. Nutrition Crisis: UNICEF said acute malnutrition among Haitian children rose from 5.1% (2023) to 7.4% (2026), citing insecurity, economic hardship, and limited access to food and care. TPS & Haiti’s Economy Abroad: In the U.S., the end of Haiti TPS is already hitting Haitian businesses—restaurant owners say they’re cutting staff and customers stay away—while U.S. border officials defend deportations despite admitting they “don’t know the conditions in Haiti.”

Humanitarian Nutrition: UNICEF and Haiti’s 2026 SMART survey report acute malnutrition among children (6–59 months) rising from 5.1% in 2023 to 7.4% in 2026, driven by insecurity, economic strain, and limited access to food and health services. Security & Governance: UN and U.S. officials urged faster deployment and stronger backing for the UN-authorized Gang Suppression Force (GSF) after the Kenscoff massacre near Port-au-Prince killed at least 47 and involved mass kidnappings, with the UN calling for immediate protection of civilians and better support for Haitian security institutions. Arms Control Diplomacy: At the UN Arms Trade Treaty conference in Geneva, African leaders pushed for countries to sign, ratify, and “domesticate” the treaty to curb illicit small arms flows fueling conflicts. Diaspora & Business Impact: The end of Temporary Protected Status (TPS) is hitting Haitian workers and local economies in the U.S., with Haitian restaurant owners in New York saying they had to cut staff and face weaker customer traffic amid deportation fears. Policy Pressure on the U.S.: Editorial and commentary coverage highlights mounting backlash over TPS termination and broader immigration enforcement, framing it as harmful to Haiti-linked communities and families.