Sunil Gehani
A Caribbean Dreamer with Big Plans
Few words
About Me
I am an international entrepreneur, diplomatic representative, and business leader dedicated to driving economic growth, innovation, and community development across the Caribbean. Currently, I am proud to serve as the Special Envoy for Economic Affairs, Foreign Investment, Trade and Industry for the Government of Saint Kitts and Nevis. Over the course of my career, I have been deeply honored to be recognized by the SKN Times as one of the "45 Remarkable and Influential Men in St. Kitts and Nevis."
My Roots and Early Foundations
My journey began in Mumbai, India, where I was born on March 12, 1974. I was raised in a simple, hardworking household by my father, a medical doctor, and my mother, a dedicated homemaker. After walking the halls of Guru Nanak School in Sion and later attending National College in Bandra, I found myself dreaming of a global life. Driven by that vision, I packed my bags in 1998 and migrated to Saint Martin. I arrived with minimal savings but possessed an unshakeable determination to build a future from the ground up.
Business Evolution & Manufacturing
I started small, managing a modest route of tobacco vending machines. By closely studying market demands, I steadily scaled my operations, opening my first duty-free tobacco storefront in 2002 and expanding into the duty-free liquor market just a year later. Over the past two decades, I have expanded my business footprint into international trading, logistics, distribution, and citizenship-by-investment consultancies. In 2022, I took a major step into regional manufacturing by launching The BigCane Premium Spirits, an artisanal luxury rum brand produced right here in St. Kitts that celebrates Caribbean heritage while generating vital local employment.
A Lesson in Resilience
My path has not been without its challenges. In 2010, my enterprise faced a high-profile, intense legal battle when the global beverage giant Diageo brought accusations against my operations. Refusing to back down, I fought to protect my businesses and my integrity. In 2011, The Hague’s highest court issued a landmark ruling entirely in my favor. This definitive victory did more than just clear my name—it taught me that with standard-bearing ethics and resilience, you can stand tall against any challenge.
Diplomacy and Vision Today
Today, I seamlessly bridge the worlds of private commerce and public diplomacy. In my role as a Special Envoy, I leverage my cross-border business experience to advise on foreign trade, stimulate economic development, and attract high-impact international investment to the Caribbean. Whether I am managing retail networks, crafting premium spirits, or representing governmental interests, my focus remains fixed on excellence, sustainability, and uplifting the local community.
Quality
I deliver excellence in every venture, from duty-free shops to The Big Cane Rum.
Professionalism
I handle every deal with integrity, building trust across St Kitts and beyond.
Experience
With 25+ years in the Caribbean, I excel in retail, distribution, and consultancy.
Honors
Recognized by local leaders, I’m proud to have led the Indian Merchants Association.
Timeline
Big Wins Along The Way
1998 Landed in Saint Martin with a Dream and small tobacco vending business.
With just a few dollars in my pocket, I left Mumbai to start fresh in Saint Martin. I began with a single tobacco vending machine, laying the foundation for my entrepreneurial journey in the Caribbean.2002 - 2003Set up my first duty free tobacco and liquor shops.
After years of hard work, I opened my first duty-free tobacco store in 2002, followed by a liquor shop in 2003. These ventures marked my entry into the retail market, serving tourists and locals alike.2011 Took on Diageo in court and won, proving my business was legit.
Facing a legal challenge from global giant Diageo, I fought for my reputation in court. The Hague’s highest court ruled in my favor, a victory that strengthened my standing in the industry.2022 - Today The Big Cane Spirit locally in St Kitts, putting the island on the maps
I launched The Big Cane Spirits, a locally produced spirit in St Kitts, to celebrate the island’s heritage. This venture not only created jobs but also showcased St Kitts’ potential on a global stage.
