The government of Antigua and Barbuda has announced a significant expansion of its economic relief measures, approving a 5% increase in pension payments to address mounting cost-of-living pressures affecting elderly citizens. This decision, ratified during the latest Cabinet session, represents the second phase of the administration’s comprehensive welfare enhancement initiative following last week’s salary adjustments for public servants.
Maurice Merchant, Director General for Communications, confirmed the policy expansion that now incorporates previously excluded categories of workers, including government contract employees and participants in the government work scheme program. The pension increase specifically targets retirees who have been particularly vulnerable to inflationary pressures and global economic disruptions.
“This deliberate intervention demonstrates our administration’s commitment to providing tangible financial relief and elevating living standards for all citizens,” Merchant stated. He emphasized that the measure forms part of a strategic approach to reinforce social protection frameworks while fostering inclusive economic growth.
The newly approved increases, originally outlined in the 2026 national budget, derive sustainability from projected economic growth indicators that support continued targeted relief distribution. Government officials have characterized these actions as responsive measures to international economic pressures that have disproportionately affected household economies throughout the nation.
This pension enhancement integrates retirees into the expanding beneficiary network of the government’s social support program, systematically addressing countrywide escalations in living expenses through methodical economic management policies.