Antigua and Barbuda has announced plans to import fruits, vegetables, and other food products from Guyana in a strategic move to lower supermarket prices and enhance regional food security. The decision was revealed by Maurice Merchant, Director General of Communications, during a post-Cabinet press briefing on Thursday. This initiative stems from discussions between Antiguan Prime Minister Gaston Browne and Guyanese President Irfaan Ali during the COP30 meeting in Belize. The Cabinet has tasked Agriculture Minister Anthony Smith Jr. with collaborating with his Guyanese counterpart to source high-quality agricultural goods for the Antiguan market. Merchant emphasized that nearly 90% of the nation’s food imports currently originate from North America, and this new partnership aims to provide equally high-quality produce at more affordable rates. The initiative is expected to help stabilize food prices once the suspension of the Common External Tariff (CET) on essential items concludes. It also aligns with the government’s broader strategy to address the cost of living and ensure consumers continue to access affordable imports. Officials anticipate that the first shipments from Guyana could reach Antiguan supermarkets by early 2026, pending the finalization of logistics and trade agreements. This collaboration marks a significant step toward achieving CARICOM’s ’25 by 2025′ goal, which aims to reduce regional food import costs by 25% and foster stronger agricultural ties within the Caribbean Community.
Antigua and Barbuda to Import Cheaper Food from Guyana Following Talks Between PM Browne and President Ali
