标签： Antigua and Barbuda

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.

The Caribbean Hotel and Tourism Association (CHTA) proudly announced the winners of the 2025 Caribbean Hotel Industry Exchange Forum (CHIEF) Awards during the event’s opening ceremony in Barbados, held from November 16 to 18. This prestigious program honors exceptional leadership, innovation, and best practices within the Caribbean hospitality sector. The awards spotlighted excellence across five categories: Environmental Sustainability, People Development and Support, Marketing Innovation, Social Responsibility, and Tech Transformation. This year’s winners and finalists represented 12 Caribbean destinations, showcasing the region’s diverse and impactful contributions to the industry.

Curtain Bluff in Antigua secured the Environmental Sustainability award for its holistic approach to sustainability, featuring advanced water systems, energy efficiency, waste reduction, and community engagement, supported by its Green Globe Platinum Certification. Half Moon in Jamaica was recognized for its People Development and Support initiatives, including wellness programs, learning platforms, and technology-enhanced training that uphold its Forbes-rated luxury standards. The Boardwalk’s “Slow Summer” campaign won the Marketing Innovation award for redefining the low season as a wellness-focused period of mindful travel, enhancing occupancy and community partnerships. The Rockhouse Foundation in Jamaica received the Social Responsibility award for its $11 million investment in rebuilding public schools and fostering inclusive education. Bolongo Bay Beach Resort in the USVI earned the Tech Transformation award for its shift to direct bookings through digital tools and guest-centric engagement.

CHTA President Sanovnik Destang emphasized the awards’ role in highlighting the creativity, innovation, and resilience of Caribbean hospitality. He noted the importance of sustainable and inclusive tourism, especially in the face of climate change challenges, such as those impacting Jamaica after Hurricane Melissa.