The Antigua Barbuda Yachting and Marina Association (ABYMA) has launched its fourth annual Discover Antigua Barbuda Yachting & Marine Expo, spotlighting the yachting industry’s pivotal role in the local economy. The event, which commenced today, features the unveiling of a groundbreaking Economic Impact Study, the first of its kind in over two decades. This study, commissioned by ABYMA and led by consultancy Eco-Sustainability, aims to evaluate the industry’s contributions, identify challenges, and uncover growth opportunities. President Franklyn Braithwaite emphasized the study’s importance, stating, ‘Understanding how we can develop and support this sector will benefit the entire economy.’ The research, set to begin in December 2025 and conclude by June 2026, will analyze both consumer behavior and the business landscape. Vice President Bobby Reis highlighted the sector’s dual role in boosting tourism and creating year-round employment. The Expo also showcased the International Yacht Restoration School of Technology & Trades Scholarship Fund, a partnership between ABYMA and local organizations, designed to nurture Antiguan talent in marine trades. Liz Isdale, representing the scholarship program, noted, ‘Investing in local potential is key to sustaining industry growth.’ Governor General Deputy Sir Clare Roberts officially opened the event, declaring, ‘Opportunity takes to the seas.’ Running through October 9th, the Expo offers career advice and networking opportunities, supported by sponsors including Antigua Yacht Club Marina and Falmouth Harbour Marina. For more details, visit www.abyma.ag.
标签： Antigua and Barbuda
安提瓜和巴布达
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Cabinet approves zero-rated import duties on basic food items to reduce food prices
In a significant move to alleviate the burden of rising food costs, the Cabinet of Antigua and Barbuda has approved the suspension of the Common External Tariff (CET) on a range of essential food items. This decision, effective from July 1, 2025, to June 30, 2026, will apply a zero percent import duty on key staples, ensuring more affordable access to basic necessities for consumers. The initiative, endorsed by CARICOM Member States, aims to provide immediate relief to low-income households and stabilize the domestic economy. Among the items benefiting from this policy are butter, potatoes, fresh fruits, cereals, cooking oils, canned meats, and baby foods. Hon. E.P. Chet Greene, Minister of Foreign Affairs, Trade, and Barbuda Affairs, emphasized the government’s commitment to easing the cost of living and enhancing food security. ‘This decisive step ensures that price relief reaches households directly while strengthening our food and nutrition resilience,’ he stated. The government also pledged to collaborate with regional and international partners to monitor market trends and implement further measures to support economic stability.
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Liquidators Announce Final Deadline for Antigua Overseas Bank Depositors
In a critical development for depositors, Antigua Overseas Bank Ltd. (AOB), currently in liquidation, has issued a final notice urging all remaining depositors to file their claims by October 31, 2025. This announcement, made under the International Banking Act, 2016, and the International Business Corporation Act of Antigua and Barbuda, marks a pivotal stage in the bank’s winding-down process. The Joint Liquidators, Cleveland Seaforth and Raquel Glynn, have emphasized the urgency for depositors to submit their claims with the necessary documentation to facilitate potential settlements from the bank’s estate. Claim forms and additional details can be accessed by contacting the Joint Liquidators at their St. John’s office or via the provided email address. This notice underscores the final opportunity for depositors to recover their funds as the liquidation process nears its conclusion.
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Cashew Hill Man Questioned in Shooting Incident
A resident of Cashew Hill is currently in police custody, assisting authorities in their investigation into a shooting incident that unfolded on Tuesday evening. The incident, which occurred around 8 p.m., prompted immediate action from officers of the Criminal Investigations Department and the Task Force (CIDTF) after reports of gunfire surfaced from the area. Despite the alarming nature of the event, no injuries have been reported, and the situation remains under active investigation. The detained individual is suspected of involvement in the incident, though specific details regarding his role have yet to be disclosed. Police are urging anyone with relevant information to come forward, assuring the public that all tips will be handled with the utmost confidentiality. Residents can contact the Criminal Investigations Department directly at 462-3913 or dial 911 to provide any leads. The authorities have emphasized their commitment to resolving the matter swiftly and maintaining public safety.
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Three Men Committed to Trial on Ammunition Charges
Three individuals from Antigua — Judeah Francis of Potters, Jaquan Davis of Skerritt’s Pasture, and Devonne Burton of Paynters — have been formally committed to stand trial at the January Assizes on multiple charges related to firearms and ammunition. The case stems from an incident in June of the previous year, where law enforcement officials allegedly discovered the trio in possession of illegal weapons and ammunition. The charges include the possession of 14 rounds of 9mm ammunition, a black 9mm Browning pistol, and a black Desert Eagle 41/44 Magnum pistol. Additionally, the men are accused of attempting to commit a crime using a firearm. Francis faces an extra charge of reckless driving, with authorities claiming his speed endangered other road users. The case, supported by 14 exhibits and seven witnesses, has been forwarded to the Assize Court for trial in January. This development underscores ongoing concerns about illegal firearms and public safety in the region.
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APUA Activates Storm Readiness Plan Across All Business Units
As the hurricane season reaches its peak, the Antigua Public Utilities Authority (APUA) has launched a comprehensive storm readiness plan across all its business units to ensure the continuity of essential services and facilitate swift recovery post-storm. CEO John Bradshaw recently convened the Executive Team to review and finalize emergency protocols, confirming that all necessary hurricane supplies and contingency plans are in place for the Electricity, Water, and Telecommunications divisions. The Electricity Business Unit has maintained year-round upkeep of infrastructure, including vegetation management and stockpiling restoration materials, while urging customers to prepare for potential outages caused by severe weather. The Water Business Unit has installed standby generators and secured ample water storage to maintain supply continuity, with desalination plants temporarily shut down to prevent damage and expedite post-storm recovery. Meanwhile, the Telecommunications Business Unit has reinforced network equipment and refueled generators at critical sites, advising customers to disconnect sensitive devices ahead of storms. APUA has also issued safety reminders, emphasizing the safe use of generators, avoidance of downed power lines, and storage of a three- to five-day water supply. Restoration efforts will commence only after conditions are deemed safe, with timelines announced following initial assessments. Bradshaw reiterated that employee and public safety remains the top priority, with the electricity network potentially being shut down entirely if storm severity poses significant risks. Residents are encouraged to follow updates from the National Office of Disaster Services (NODS) and the Meteorological Office, as well as APUA’s official social media channels for real-time information.
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Independence Parade and Food Fair Set for November 3
The Cabinet of Antigua and Barbuda has officially declared that the nation’s 44th Independence Ceremonial Parade and Food Fair will take place on Monday, November 3, 2025. This decision aligns with the Public Holidays (Amendment) Act of 2019, which stipulates that when November 1, the official Independence Day, falls on a weekend, the subsequent Monday is observed as a public holiday. This year, November 1 coincides with a Saturday, prompting the shift to November 3 for all official celebrations. The event will feature a grand ceremonial parade and a national food fair, showcasing the country’s rich cultural heritage and culinary traditions. Further details regarding the venue and program for the festivities are anticipated to be unveiled in the coming weeks. The celebration marks a significant moment for Antigua and Barbuda, reflecting on its journey to independence and its vibrant national identity. Additionally, the announcement highlighted opportunities for businesses to advertise with the nation’s most visited news site, offering customizable digital marketing packages to reach a broad audience.
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Tropical Storm Watch Remains in Effect for Antigua and Barbuda
Tropical Storm Jerry is rapidly gaining strength as it advances toward the northern Leeward Islands, posing significant risks to the region. According to the National Hurricane Center’s 5 a.m. advisory on October 9, 2025, the storm is moving west-northwest at 20 mph (31 km/h) and is currently located approximately 395 miles (640 km) east-southeast of the islands. With maximum sustained winds of 65 mph (100 km/h), Jerry is expected to intensify further, potentially reaching hurricane status by late Friday or Saturday. A Tropical Storm Watch is in effect for Antigua, Barbuda, Anguilla, St. Kitts, Nevis, Montserrat, St. Barthelemy, St. Martin, Sint Maarten, Saba, St. Eustatius, Guadeloupe, and nearby islands. The storm’s center is forecasted to pass near or northeast of the northern Leeward Islands later today, bringing heavy rainfall of 2 to 4 inches, with isolated totals up to 6 inches. This rainfall increases the risk of flash flooding in low-lying and steep areas. Additionally, tropical-storm-force winds extending up to 175 miles (280 km) east of the storm’s center could cause widespread damage. Marine hazards, including life-threatening surf and rip currents, are already affecting the Leeward and Windward Islands and are expected to spread to the Virgin Islands and Puerto Rico. Residents in the affected areas are urged to stay informed through official updates and prepare for deteriorating conditions. The National Hurricane Center will issue its next full advisory at 11 a.m. AST.
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Central Bank Makes It Easier for Ordinary People to Invest in Government Bonds
The Eastern Caribbean Central Bank (ECCB) and member governments of the Eastern Caribbean Currency Union (ECCU) have unveiled a groundbreaking Retail Bond Initiative, designed to democratize access to government securities for individual investors. This initiative, launched in collaboration with the Regional Government Securities Market (RGSM), aims to transform household savers into active participants in the financial market.
Over the past two decades, the RGSM has successfully mobilized approximately EC$20.7 billion for regional development. However, household involvement has been minimal, accounting for only 1.5% (EC$310.3 million) of total investments, with a mere 600 individuals participating. To address this gap, the ECCB’s Research, Statistics, and Data Analytics Department (RSDAD) conducted a survey, identifying three primary barriers: high minimum investment thresholds (EC$5,000), excessive fees, and a lack of financial literacy.
In response, the Regional Debt Coordinating Committee (RDCC) and the ECCB developed the Retail Bond Initiative, which significantly lowers the entry barrier. The minimum investment is now set at EC$500, with increments of EC$100, and a maximum cap of EC$50,000 per investor. The bonds offer an annual interest rate of 4.25% and a two-year term, with principal repayment at maturity.
Juletta Edinborough, Fiscal and Debt Specialist at the ECCB, emphasized the initiative’s goal of empowering individuals. ‘This is a pivotal step in transitioning savers to investors,’ she stated. ‘We encourage all ECCU citizens and residents to seize this opportunity.’
The inaugural retail bonds will be issued by the governments of Grenada and Saint Christopher (St Kitts) and Nevis. Investors can participate through six licensed brokers, including the Bank of Saint Lucia Limited, Grenada Co-operative Bank Limited, and St Kitts-Nevis-Anguilla National Bank Limited.
This initiative not only enhances financial inclusion but also strengthens regional economic resilience and sustainable development. For more details, visit www.ecseonline.com/broker-dealer and www.eccuretailbond.com.
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Magnitude 3.5 Earthquake Recorded North of Antigua
The UWI Seismic Research Centre (SRC) has confirmed a magnitude 3.5 earthquake that occurred at 10:57 p.m. local time on Wednesday, October 8, 2025. The seismic event was centered at latitude 17.49°N and longitude 61.77°W, with a depth of 19 kilometers. The epicenter was situated approximately 43 kilometers north-northeast of St. John’s, Antigua; 91 kilometers northeast of Brades, Montserrat; and 109 kilometers east-northeast of Basseterre, St. Kitts and Nevis. The SRC emphasized that the earthquake was automatically recorded and that further analysis may lead to revisions in its location and magnitude. Fortunately, there have been no immediate reports of damage or injuries. The region, known for its seismic activity, remains on alert as authorities continue to monitor the situation. The SRC has urged residents to stay informed and prepared for potential aftershocks. This event underscores the importance of robust seismic monitoring systems in earthquake-prone areas.