In a significant move to overhaul its fiscal policies, the government of Antigua and Barbuda has declared that all existing tax concessions for businesses and entities will be terminated effective November 30. This decision is part of a broader reform aimed at enhancing transparency, aligning policies with national priorities, and fostering fair competition. Starting December 1, 2025, businesses and ongoing projects will need to reapply for concessions under a new framework designed to ensure that incentives align with the country’s sustainable development and investment goals. Maurice Merchant, the Director General of Communications, emphasized during a post-Cabinet briefing that this measure will enable the government to reassess which sectors genuinely require support. He highlighted that the initiative aims to “promote fair competition” and strengthen accountability in the allocation of tax benefits. Merchant also pointed out that past broad-based concessions were often misused by businesses for projects beyond their original approval scope. The reform is expected to realign incentives with long-term objectives, including investments in green energy, tourism diversification, and the development of health and education sectors. While the decision will impact industries such as tourism, manufacturing, and renewable energy, officials clarified that qualified projects will still receive support. However, the reapplication process will ensure that incentives are appropriately scaled and compliant with updated national policies.
Antigua Cabinet Orders End to All Tax Concessions Effective November 30
