Prime Minister Gaston Browne has unveiled ambitious plans to bolster Antigua and Barbuda’s economy through the establishment of a new brewery and the expansion of the Antigua Distillery. These initiatives, backed by a recently approved loan secured via a public-private partnership with the government, signify a strategic shift toward economic diversification and reduced dependence on tourism. Speaking on his weekly radio program, ‘Browne and Browne,’ the Prime Minister emphasized the significance of these investments in broadening the nation’s production base. ‘From next year, we may have a beer factory,’ Browne revealed, highlighting the collaborative effort between the government and Antigua Distillery. The Prime Minister noted that while tourism remains a vital sector, its contribution to GDP has decreased from 70 percent to approximately 55 percent due to the growth of other industries. ‘Banking, manufacturing, and services such as medical education and insurance are now playing a more substantial role in our economy,’ he explained. This diversification has enabled Antigua and Barbuda to achieve record economic growth, maintain fiscal surpluses, and reduce national debt. Browne also underscored the importance of joint ventures in agriculture, distilling, and financial services, which aim to enhance local ownership and economic participation. The Citizenship by Investment Programme, contributing around 10 percent of GDP, continues to complement these efforts. The Prime Minister’s announcement reflects a broader vision to strengthen the country’s economic resilience and ensure sustainable development.