标签： Antigua and Barbuda

Prime Minister Gaston Browne of Antigua and Barbuda has expressed confidence in the nation’s ability to secure additional first-class seats on British Airways flights, citing the rapid growth of its luxury hotel sector as a key driver. Speaking on the *Browne and Browne* show, Browne emphasized that the expansion of high-end accommodations is reshaping Antigua’s market profile, making a compelling case for airlines to enhance their premium offerings.

Browne projected that within the next five to ten years, Antigua will emerge as a significantly more attractive destination, with the influx of luxury properties directly influencing the availability of first-class air travel. “As those luxury properties take root and are completed, we will have more luxury rooms, and you’re going to get more first-class seats,” he stated.

The Prime Minister’s remarks followed a suggestion from hotelier Andrew Michelin, who urged Antigua to actively pursue a first-class cabin on British Airways routes. Michelin argued that Antigua’s hospitality offerings have surpassed those of many regional competitors, positioning the island as a prime candidate for expanded premium services.

Michelin highlighted Antigua’s growing appeal to high-net-worth visitors, its direct UK connections, and the increasing popularity of Barbuda as factors that bolster its case for premium airlift. He also noted the island’s enhanced regional connectivity through LIAT and the presence of upscale properties like Jamwe Bay as additional justifications for a first-class service.

Browne endorsed Michelin’s proposal, stating that Antigua’s upward tourism trajectory and its emergence as a high-value Caribbean destination create a strong foundation for airlines to increase their premium seating capacity. The Prime Minister’s vision underscores the nation’s commitment to elevating its global standing in luxury travel and hospitality.

Prime Minister Gaston Browne has revealed that a prominent shipping company is considering redirecting cargo traffic to Antigua and Barbuda, a development that could propel the nation toward its goal of becoming a premier transshipment hub in the Eastern Caribbean. Speaking on the *Browne and Browne* show, the Prime Minister attributed this interest to the government’s recent $16 million investment in a state-of-the-art crane at the Deepwater Harbour port. He emphasized that the company’s inquiry would not have occurred without this critical infrastructure upgrade.

The potential agreement is expected to dramatically increase cargo volumes, necessitating rapid expansion of the port’s capabilities. Browne outlined plans to install at least two additional cranes and expand the port’s operational footprint to accommodate the anticipated surge in shipping activity. To address space constraints, the government is considering cutting down Rat Island to create more land for storage, equipment, and cargo handling facilities.

Browne highlighted the strategic advantage of Antigua and Barbuda’s location, particularly in light of Guyana’s burgeoning trade ties with Brazil. This connection could facilitate the movement of goods northward, with Antigua serving as a key distribution point for the OECS and broader Caribbean markets. The Prime Minister also noted that this shift would stimulate growth in related industries, including ship maintenance, bunkering, and warehousing.

To maximize the economic benefits of increased port activity, the government is exploring measures such as corporatization and enhanced oversight to boost revenues and minimize inefficiencies. While the shipping company’s identity remains undisclosed, Browne expressed confidence that its interest reflects trust in the nation’s strategic direction and underscores the importance of sustained infrastructure investment.

If finalized, the deal could transform Antigua and Barbuda’s maritime economy, positioning the Deepwater Harbour as a pivotal logistics hub in the region for decades to come.

Prime Minister Gaston Browne has announced a historic milestone for Antigua and Barbuda’s Customs Department, which recorded its highest single-day revenue collection last week. Speaking on the ‘Browne and Browne’ show, Browne revealed that Customs collected an unprecedented EC$3.7 million on Monday, a figure that underscores the success of recent administrative reforms aimed at enhancing oversight and reducing revenue leakages at the country’s primary port of entry.

Browne emphasized that this record-breaking achievement reflects the government’s efforts to strengthen revenue monitoring and optimize the port’s financial performance. He noted that the port had historically underperformed relative to its potential, but the recent surge in revenue indicates that the administration is now ‘getting value for money’ and addressing systemic inefficiencies.

The Prime Minister’s remarks coincided with discussions about planned upgrades to the port to accommodate increasing cargo volumes and attract international shipping firms. Browne highlighted the growing importance of the port’s revenue performance as Antigua and Barbuda seeks to capitalize on expanding regional transshipment activity.

During the program, Sir Molwyn Joseph, a key figure in the discussion, urged the government to adopt a more business-oriented approach to port management. He stressed the need for daily financial analysis and real-time anomaly detection to ensure predictable revenue outcomes. Joseph also called for enhanced port security, stricter cargo movement controls, and improved managerial oversight to maximize the port’s potential as a major revenue center for the nation.