MUMBAI, India — Hon. Anthony Smith Jr., Minister of Agriculture, Lands, Fisheries and the Blue Economy for Antigua and Barbuda, has solidified the twin-island nation’s role as a Caribbean pioneer in sustainable ocean development. Representing his country at India Maritime Week 2025, Smith participated in the second edition of ‘Sagarmanthan: The Great Oceans Dialogue,’ a high-profile international forum bringing together ministers, policymakers, and industry leaders to advance global ocean governance and the Blue Economy. As a featured panelist during ‘Plenary 8: Oceans of Opportunity – Re-imagining the Global Blue Economy,’ Smith shared critical insights on human-capital development for small island states, emphasizing its significance in driving sustainable ocean industries. He highlighted Antigua and Barbuda’s strides in Blue Economy policies, including the establishment of the Centre of Excellence for Ocean and Blue Economy (COBE), designed to train and empower future professionals in regional ocean sectors. Smith’s address resonated strongly with delegates, particularly young professionals and students, who praised his vision as inspiring and forward-thinking. During his visit, Smith engaged in discussions with environmental engineers and researchers from the Indian Institute of Engineering and the Indian Institute of Science, exploring potential collaborations in marine innovation, ocean technology, and sustainability research. Accompanied by Ms. Marver Woodley, Senior Operations and Policy Manager within the Department of the Blue Economy, Smith’s participation underscored Antigua and Barbuda’s growing reputation as a regional leader in ocean sustainability. At just 30 years old, Smith has emerged as one of the Caribbean’s youngest and most influential advocates for ocean policy. His message in Mumbai was unequivocal: small island states have the potential—and the responsibility—to shape the global Blue Economy. ‘Antigua and Barbuda is ready to lead,’ he declared.
Smith Highlights Antigua and Barbuda’s Blue Economy Vision at Global Forum in India
