In a strategic move to enhance tourism ties with South America, Antigua and Barbuda will commence weekly direct charter flights to Cartagena, Colombia, starting October 24. The initiative, unveiled on Friday, is a collaborative effort between DMC BlueSea and Liat Air. The partnership aims to establish South America as a pivotal source market for the Caribbean destination. The announcement was made during a press conference attended by key figures, including Colin James, CEO of the Antigua and Barbuda Tourism Authority (ABTA), María Britto Bettini, CEO of BlueSea, and José Abreu, also from BlueSea. Britto Bettini revealed that the concept of directly linking Antigua and Barbuda with Colombia had been in the pipeline even before the pandemic. James described the new service as a ‘gateway’ to untapped markets, emphasizing its potential to attract a fresh influx of tourists. This development is expected to significantly bolster the tourism sector in Antigua and Barbuda, providing a much-needed boost to the local economy. The initiative also highlights the growing importance of South America as a key player in the global tourism industry.

The U.S. Department of State has endorsed the establishment of a regional credit bureau in Antigua and Barbuda, emphasizing its potential to revolutionize the lending sector and fortify the nation’s financial infrastructure. The initiative, spearheaded by the Eastern Caribbean Central Bank (ECCB) under the Credit Reporting Act of 2024, aims to provide banks and lenders with enhanced tools for assessing borrower credibility. This development is part of a broader strategy to improve financial inclusion across the Eastern Caribbean Currency Union, which includes Antigua and Barbuda. According to the 2025 Investment Climate Statement, the credit bureau will play a pivotal role in collecting, storing, and disseminating credit information to financial institutions. U.S. officials predict that this will lead to increased access to credit for households and businesses, while simultaneously reducing the incidence of loan defaults. The ECCB has reported that the banking sector in Antigua and Barbuda remains stable, with commercial bank assets totaling $2.4 billion at the end of 2024. However, nearly 10% of loans were classified as non-performing, highlighting the urgent need for more robust oversight mechanisms. In addition to improving credit assessment, the bureau is also tasked with enforcing stringent data protection measures to safeguard consumer information, thereby fostering greater trust in the financial system. This initiative is expected to have a transformative impact on the region’s economic landscape, offering new opportunities for growth and development.

Antigua and Barbuda has positioned itself as an attractive destination for foreign investors, boasting a business registration process that can be completed in as little as three weeks. However, a recent U.S. government report highlights persistent legal complexities and procedural hurdles that continue to challenge foreign companies seeking to enter the market. The 2025 Investment Climate Statement, released by the U.S. Department of State in September, underscores the need for filings with multiple agencies, including the Intellectual Property and Commercial Office, Inland Revenue Department, Social Security Scheme, Medical Benefits Scheme, and the Board of Education. Most investors rely on local attorneys to navigate these requirements, adding to the complexity and cost of establishing a business. The Antigua and Barbuda Investment Authority (ABIA) plays a pivotal role in facilitating foreign investment by guiding investors through incentives and concessions. Additionally, the country’s participation in the World Trade Organization’s Joint Initiative on Investment Facilitation for Development has spurred reforms aimed at enhancing transparency and streamlining processes. Despite these efforts, the report notes that many policies affecting investors are developed without public consultation, and some legislation lacks broad stakeholder input. While accounting and regulatory procedures generally align with international standards, critics argue that a more robust consultative process is essential to bolster investor confidence. The government emphasizes that there are no restrictions on foreign ownership and that the legal system, rooted in British common law, safeguards property rights and commercial enforcement. Nevertheless, the report concludes that while the overall investment climate is improving, legal and procedural hurdles remain significant barriers for investors.

The U.S. Department of State has issued a warning to American investors regarding real estate investments in Antigua and Barbuda, citing an unresolved property dispute involving alleged expropriation of a U.S.-owned asset. The caution was highlighted in the 2025 Investment Climate Statement released in September, which raised concerns about the security of property rights in the Caribbean nation. While Antigua and Barbuda actively promotes foreign investment across sectors such as tourism and agriculture, the unresolved case has cast a shadow over its otherwise favorable investment climate. The report emphasized the need for careful consideration when investing in real estate, though it did not disclose specific details about the property or the parties involved. Despite the government’s assurances that it will not expropriate investments without due process and compensation, the dispute underscores potential gaps in enforcement of legal protections. This warning serves as a reminder of the risks that can accompany foreign investments, even in seemingly open markets.

Global Ports Holding (GPH), the world’s largest cruise port operator, is spearheading a $250 million initiative to transform cruise destinations across the Caribbean and Europe. The ambitious project, set to unfold through 2027, includes the construction of new pools, terminals, and piers, alongside upgrades to existing facilities. Key developments are underway in Nassau (The Bahamas), Antigua & Barbuda, St. Lucia, Las Palmas (Spain), and San Juan (Puerto Rico).

In Nassau, the West Marina Pool is slated to open by mid-October 2025, followed by a Superyacht Marina by year-end. Antigua’s port district in St. John’s is being reimagined with a homeport terminal for turnaround operations, complemented by new retail, dining, and public amenities. St. Lucia’s Point Seraphine is undergoing upgrades to accommodate the region’s largest cruise ships, while Las Palmas is set to unveil Europe’s largest cruise terminal by September 2025, capable of hosting up to five ships and 12,000 passengers.

Mehmet Kutman, Chairman and CEO of GPH, emphasized the company’s commitment to creating world-class destinations that benefit both passengers and local communities. The projects aim to enhance the guest experience, foster economic growth, and deliver sustainable infrastructure. GPH’s expansion also includes new terminals in Alicante and the Canary Islands, further solidifying its global presence. By integrating modern facilities with retail, dining, and public spaces, GPH is positioning its ports as premier destinations for cruise travelers.

Antigua & Barbuda PM condemns Cuba’s continued inclusion on list of countries sponsoring terrorism

Antigua and Barbuda is taking decisive steps to enhance its port infrastructure by acquiring a barge to support ongoing dredging projects at St. John’s and Crabbs harbours. This initiative is a critical component of the nation’s broader port expansion strategy, aimed at boosting cargo handling and cruise ship capacity. Maurice Merchant, Director General of Communications, emphasized the necessity of the barge during a recent Cabinet press briefing, stating that previously procured equipment cannot function without it. Two barges have been identified, and the government is currently evaluating the most cost-effective option without compromising quality. The dredging efforts are part of a comprehensive upgrade that includes the introduction of a US$6.2 million mobile harbor crane. Additionally, the government plans to relocate the Coast Guard to Camp Blizzard, freeing up valuable waterfront space for future development. These upgrades are expected to enhance operational efficiency, attract more business, and contribute to national revenue growth, positioning Antigua and Barbuda as a competitive shipping and tourism hub in the Eastern Caribbean.