In a significant move to alleviate the financial burden on households, the government has temporarily suspended the Common External Tariff (CET) on a wide range of essential food items. This decision, part of a CARICOM-wide initiative, aims to mitigate the effects of rising global food prices and provide immediate relief to consumers. Maurice Merchant, Director General of Communications, announced during a post-Cabinet press briefing on Thursday that the suspension is expected to lead to noticeable price reductions within weeks. However, he cautioned that the timeline could vary depending on how quickly supermarkets deplete their existing stock, typically taking one to two months for the changes to reflect on store shelves. The Prices and Consumer Affairs Division has been tasked with monitoring compliance and reporting back to Cabinet within 30 days to ensure that the price reductions are effectively passed on to shoppers. The list of items benefiting from the tariff suspension includes fresh vegetables, fruits, potatoes, carrots, peas, legumes, canned proteins like sardines and corned beef, infant foods, cereals, and cooking oils. Merchant emphasized that the measure will be fully implemented by January 1, pending the finalization of necessary documentation. Additionally, the government is considering expanding the list of zero-rated items and introducing complementary legislation early next year to restrict sugary drinks as part of a broader healthy-living campaign. The Gaston Browne administration remains steadfast in its commitment to ensuring that the benefits of these policy interventions are directly felt by the people of Antigua and Barbuda, through lower prices and enhanced food security.
标签： Antigua and Barbuda
安提瓜和巴布达
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Antigua Students to Participate in Groundbreaking OECS Student Census — A Global First
In a historic move, the Organisation of Eastern Caribbean States (OECS) is set to launch the first-ever region-wide Student Census on November 11, 2025. This groundbreaking initiative will enable students from kindergarten to Form 5 across the OECS to directly influence the future of education by sharing their authentic voices and experiences. Unlike traditional surveys or samples, this census will include every student, ensuring that no child’s perspective is overlooked. Dr. Didacus Jules, Director General of the OECS, emphasized the significance of this initiative, stating, ‘Transformation begins with listening. This census gives every child the chance to be heard.’ Mrs. Sisera Simon, Head of the Human and Social Division at the OECS Commission, highlighted the transformative potential of the census, noting that it will provide accurate, up-to-date data to shape policies that truly address students’ needs and aspirations. The census will also play a pivotal role in informing the new 10-Year OECS Education Sector Strategy (2027-2037), ensuring that it is grounded in the lived experiences of students. Parents, caregivers, and community members are encouraged to support the initiative by promoting student participation. The census will be conducted confidentially and securely, with all data anonymized to protect students’ privacy. By amplifying the voices of over 100,000 learners, the OECS Student Census aims to build more inclusive, equitable, and student-centered education systems across the region.
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National Clean-up Campaign Sees 13 Tons of Waste, 75 Vacant Lots Cleared
The National Solid Waste Management Authority (NSWMA) launched its ‘Love Where You Live’ cleanup initiative in October, marking a significant step toward fostering cleaner and healthier communities. Spanning three weeks, the campaign focused on the Villa Area, encompassing Dickenson Bay Street, Anchorage Road, and Fort James Drive. Through meticulous efforts, the NSWMA team revitalized the neighborhood, setting a new standard for environmental stewardship.
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Ambassador Ruleta Camacho-Thomas Champions Caribbean Voices on Climate Mobility and Loss and Damage at COP30 in Brazil
At the COP30 Conference in Belém, Brazil, Antigua and Barbuda’s Ambassador for Climate Change, Ruleta Camacho-Thomas, delivered a compelling address at a high-level event focused on Climate Mobility and Loss and Damage. Her speech shed light on the profound and multifaceted challenges faced by Caribbean communities due to climate-induced displacement. Ambassador Camacho-Thomas emphasized that the displacement caused by climate change extends beyond physical relocation, deeply affecting mental health, community cohesion, and cultural heritage. Drawing from Antigua and Barbuda’s experience with Hurricane Irma and Jamaica’s ongoing struggles after Hurricane Melissa, she illustrated how natural disasters can rapidly dismantle the social fabric of entire populations. The Ambassador stressed the urgent need for access to the Fund for Responding to Loss and Damage, a critical resource to alleviate the human, economic, and cultural toll of displacement. She asserted that climate mobility is not a distant threat but a present reality reshaping Caribbean life. Ambassador Camacho-Thomas called for a collective response that prioritizes the protection of people, culture, and dignity. Her participation at COP30 highlights Antigua and Barbuda’s leadership in advocating for climate justice, equity, and resilience, particularly for small island developing states on the global stage.
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Josh Matthias Charged with Marrying Two Wives, Granted Bail
A 35-year-old man from Cassada Gardens, Josh Matthias, has been granted bail in a high-profile bigamy case. Matthias appeared before Magistrate Andrew Mighty earlier this week, where he was released on a $5,000 bail with no cash deposit required. The court imposed strict conditions for his release, including the provision of two sureties, the surrender of all travel documents, and a prohibition on contacting the alleged victim. Authorities claim that Matthias participated in a wedding ceremony with another woman at Fort James on April 9, 2025, despite still being legally married to his first wife. Following a thorough investigation, he was arrested and formally charged with bigamy. The case has been adjourned and is set to resume on December 17, 2025, as the legal proceedings continue.
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Antigua and Barbuda Successfully Host the 2025 Travel Agency Owners Forum
In a landmark event for the Caribbean tourism industry, Antigua and Barbuda successfully hosted the 2025 Travel Agency Owners Forum from October 25 to 29, 2025. This prestigious gathering, held at Pineapple Beach Club Antigua and The Verandah All-Inclusive Resorts, marked the first time a travel industry forum of this scale was staged outside the United States. The event brought together 70 prominent U.S.-based leisure travel agency owners, collectively responsible for over $800 million in annual bookings, underscoring the Caribbean’s growing influence as a top destination for high-value travel experiences. Over four days, attendees participated in a dynamic agenda featuring B2B meetings, educational panels, networking events, and immersive destination experiences. These activities highlighted Antigua and Barbuda’s rich culture, exceptional hospitality, and world-class tourism infrastructure. Key experiences included resort showcases, cultural excursions, and site visits at premier properties such as The Verandah Resort and Spa, Pineapple Beach Club Antigua, Hammock Cove Antigua, Royalton Resort and Spa, and Sandals Grande Antigua. The Forum also featured a lineup of industry thought leaders, including Shayla Northcutt of Northcutt Travel Agency, Jeff Ment of Ment Law Group, and Christopher Lingren of Wonderful Adventure Travel Group, who shared insights on topics ranging from business efficiency to legal considerations and the human side of travel. Dean Fenton, U.S. Director for the Antigua and Barbuda Tourism Authority, expressed pride in hosting the event, stating, ‘This Forum not only showcased our islands’ incredible hospitality but also positioned Antigua and Barbuda as a leading destination for global trade engagement and high-value travel experiences.’ The event’s success underscores the Caribbean’s rising prominence in the global travel industry and its ability to attract influential decision-makers shaping travel trends worldwide.
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Investigation Continues into Kahleel Simon’s Fatal Police Shooting
Authorities are intensifying their probe into the fatal police shooting of 18-year-old Kahleel Simon, who tragically lost his life on his birthday, August 27. Acting Police Commissioner Everton Jeffers informed state media that law enforcement officials are meticulously collecting evidence and witness testimonies. A comprehensive file is being prepared for submission to the Magistrate, preceding a coroner’s inquest. Jeffers also confirmed that an autopsy on Simon’s body has been completed. The incident has ignited widespread community protests, with Simon’s relatives and local residents vehemently claiming that excessive force was employed and that he was not afforded an opportunity to comply before being shot. The case has raised significant concerns about police conduct and the use of force, prompting calls for transparency and accountability in the ongoing investigation.
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Rotary District Governor pays Courtesy Call to Governor General and Lady Williams
Mrs. Soraya A. J. Warner-Gustave, the Rotary District Governor of District 7030, which encompasses the Southern Caribbean and South America, recently made an official visit to Antigua and Barbuda. During her trip, she paid a courtesy call to His Excellency Sir Rodney Williams, the Governor General of Antigua and Barbuda, and Her Excellency Lady Sandra Williams, the Governor General’s Goodwill Emissary. The visit underscored the longstanding relationship between Rotary International and the twin-island nation. Sir Rodney warmly welcomed Mrs. Warner-Gustave and commended the Rotary Clubs for their impactful contributions, particularly in youth development, their support for the Sir Lester Bird Mount St. John’s Medical Centre, and their unwavering commitment to humanitarian service and peacebuilding. The District Governor also spotlighted the upcoming Rotary Youth Leadership Awards (RYLA), set to take place in Antigua and Barbuda this weekend. The event will bring together over 150 regional participants and approximately 100 local Interact members for a three-day youth development workshop. Lady Sandra Williams, President of the Halo Foundation, extended an invitation to the Rotary team to continue their collaborative efforts, referencing past joint initiatives such as the ‘Meals on Wheels’ program. The Rotary Club of Antigua has enjoyed the patronage of Their Excellencies since 2014. Mrs. Warner-Gustave was accompanied by Assistant Governor Jonah Ormond, along with representatives from the Rotary Club of Antigua, including President Elisa Graham, and President Nicole Stevens of the Rotary Club of Antigua (Sundown).
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Benna Boys Hold Aruba to Draw in CONCACAF Clash
In a tightly contested international football match on Tuesday night, Antigua and Barbuda’s national team, the Benna Boys, managed to hold Aruba to a goalless draw. Both teams displayed tenacity and skill, but despite numerous close attempts, neither could clinch a winning goal. The match, characterized by intense midfield battles and defensive resilience, ended with the points evenly shared. The Benna Boys now shift their focus to their upcoming fixture against Guyana, scheduled for next Tuesday at 7pm at the Sir Vivian Richards Stadium. Fans are being encouraged to rally behind the team as they aim to secure a vital victory on home turf.
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Antigua and Barbuda to Establish Agro-Industrial Park to Strengthen Food Security
The government of Antigua and Barbuda has unveiled plans to establish an agro-industrial park aimed at enhancing food security and expanding local agricultural production. Maurice Merchant, Director General of Communications, announced that two potential sites—Old Road and Christian Valley—are under consideration for the project. The development will feature agro-processing facilities, a feed mill, and model homes constructed using sustainable materials. Merchant emphasized that the park will play a pivotal role in reducing the nation’s dependence on imported animal feed while promoting value-added processing in the farming sector. Speaking at a post-briefing session on Thursday, he highlighted the project as a cornerstone of the administration’s strategy to foster a self-sufficient and resilient agricultural economy. The initiative underscores the government’s dedication to food sustainability and rural development, marking a significant step toward long-term economic and environmental resilience.