A recent report by the U.S. Department of State has underscored the economic resilience of Antigua and Barbuda, while emphasizing the need for continued reforms to sustain growth and mitigate risks. The 2025 Investment Climate Statement, released in September, highlighted that the nation’s economy expanded by 4.3% in 2024, driven largely by tourism, yachting, agriculture, and business process outsourcing. However, the report cautioned that the country remains vulnerable to external shocks, including supply chain disruptions, natural disasters, and global economic downturns. Tourism, the largest foreign exchange earner and employer, exposes the nation to fluctuations in international travel demand. To bolster economic resilience, the government has prioritized foreign direct investment through the Antigua and Barbuda Investment Authority (ABIA), focusing on renewable energy, agro-processing, and infrastructure. Initiatives like the Nomad Digital Residence Visa aim to attract remote workers and high-net-worth individuals. While these efforts reflect a strategy to diversify income sources, the report stresses that long-term stability hinges on addressing fiscal sustainability and climate-related vulnerabilities.
标签： Antigua and Barbuda
安提瓜和巴布达
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Antigua and Barbuda PM Condemns Gaza ‘Genocide,’ Urges Peaceful Two-State Solution at UN
In a powerful address to the United Nations General Assembly on Friday, Prime Minister Gaston Browne of Antigua and Barbuda condemned the ongoing crisis in Gaza, labeling it as a ‘genocide.’ Browne called for immediate humanitarian access and emphasized the need for a peaceful resolution through a two-state solution, aligning with UN resolutions. He urged the international community to prioritize the protection of civilians and the release of Israeli hostages held by Hamas, while also criticizing the forced displacement of Gazans. Browne reaffirmed his nation’s commitment to a future where Israel and Palestine coexist in security and dignity. Additionally, he criticized the denial of a visa to the chairman of the Palestine Liberation Organization, asserting that the UN must remain a platform for all voices, especially during times of conflict. Browne extended his appeal for diplomacy to other global crises, including the war in Ukraine, calling for a just and peaceful resolution grounded in the UN Charter. He also highlighted the urgent need for coordinated international support for Haiti, advocating for a Haitian-led stabilization plan backed by transparent funding. Throughout his speech, Browne framed Antigua and Barbuda’s foreign policy as one rooted in peace, human rights, and justice, aligning with this year’s UN theme of building a ‘better together’ world.
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Direct Flights Between Antigua and Colombia to Start in October
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.
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Antigua’s Freedom of Information Act Is Falling Short in Practice, US Report says
A recent report by the U.S. Department of State has shed light on the shortcomings of Antigua and Barbuda’s Freedom of Information Act, revealing significant gaps between the law’s intent and its practical application. Published in September 2025 as part of the Investment Climate Statement, the report underscores the challenges citizens face in accessing public records, despite the legislation’s promise of transparency. The Act, which grants individuals the statutory right to request official documents and establishes a commissioner to oversee the process, has been hampered by systemic issues. According to the report, residents often encounter obstacles in obtaining records, likely due to government funding constraints rather than deliberate obstruction. Additionally, while the law mandates a special unit to monitor disclosures, these records remain non-public, and enforcement of penalties for noncompliance has been inconsistent. The report also highlights broader transparency issues in Antigua and Barbuda, noting that draft bills are not always subject to public consultation, limiting stakeholder engagement in policymaking. Although the country is a party to multiple international conventions on good governance, the State Department concluded that domestic transparency mechanisms remain weak. This analysis raises concerns about the effectiveness of the Freedom of Information Act in fostering accountability and public trust in government operations.
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US Says Launch of Credit Bureau Will Improve Access To Loans in Antigua and Barbuda
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.
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Runway Animal Risks Are a Global Aviation Challenge -Eugene Kaseba Silcott
In a recent statement, Eugene Kaseba Silcott addressed misconceptions surrounding a runway incident at V.C. Bird International Airport in Antigua, involving a stray dog. Silcott emphasized that such occurrences are not unique to Antigua but are a global issue affecting aviation safety. He highlighted similar incidents at major airports worldwide, including New York’s JFK Airport and Pune Airport in India, where stray animals forced flights to execute go-around maneuvers. A go-around, where an aircraft aborts its landing to avoid potential collisions, is a standard safety procedure in aviation, applicable to both commercial jets like the British Airways Boeing 777 and smaller aircraft like the Cessna 172. Silcott urged the public to maintain a broader perspective, recognizing the challenges faced by air traffic control and aviation professionals globally. His message underscored the importance of staying informed and working together to ensure the safety of air travel. The statement concluded with a call for unity and a reminder of the complexities inherent in managing runway safety.
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17-Year-Old Charged After Robbing Couple of Vehicle and Valuables
A 17-year-old male from Clare Hall, Antigua and Barbuda, has been formally charged with robbery following an incident on High Street. The alleged crime occurred on Monday, September 22, 2025, when the teenager, along with an accomplice, reportedly robbed two individuals at gunpoint. The assailants made off with a vehicle and several valuable items. The accused was apprehended on Thursday in the Clare Hall area and is currently in custody awaiting his court appearance. The police have launched a thorough investigation into the matter and are urging anyone with additional information to come forward. Witnesses can contact the Criminal Investigations Department at 462-3913 or anonymously call Crimestoppers at 800-TIPS (8477). The Police Administration has reaffirmed its commitment to public safety and its determination to bring those involved in criminal activities to justice.
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17-Year-Old Charged With Robbery
In a recent development in St. John’s, Antigua and Barbuda, a 17-year-old male from Clare Hall has been formally charged with robbery. The incident, which occurred on Monday, September 22, along High Street, involved the alleged theft of a vehicle and several valuable items from two individuals. Reports suggest that the victims were robbed at gunpoint by two assailants, who swiftly fled the scene with the stolen goods. The accused was apprehended on Thursday in the Clare Hall area and is currently in custody. He is scheduled to appear in court to face the charges. The police are actively investigating the case and have urged anyone with additional information to contact the Criminal Investigations Department at 462-3913 or anonymously call Crimestoppers at 800-TIPS (8477). The Police Administration has reaffirmed its commitment to ensuring the safety of all citizens and visitors, vowing to take all necessary actions to bring those involved in criminal activities to justice.
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High Surf Advisory Issued for Barbuda, Anguilla, St. Kitts and BVI
The Antigua and Barbuda Meteorological Service has issued a high surf advisory for several northeastern Caribbean islands, including Barbuda, Anguilla, St. Kitts, and the British Virgin Islands. The advisory, issued on Saturday morning, warns of hazardous swells moving into the region, with waves expected to reach heights of 6 to 10 feet. These conditions pose significant risks, including rip currents, beach erosion, and localized coastal flooding. The threat level has been classified as moderate, with the potential for substantial impacts on affected areas. The timing of the swells varies across the islands. Barbuda is expected to experience the worst conditions from Saturday afternoon until midnight, while Anguilla will be impacted through the early hours of Sunday. St. Kitts faces high surf from Saturday night into midnight, and the British Virgin Islands will be affected from Saturday evening through late Sunday. Authorities have urged residents and visitors to exercise caution, advising against swimming on exposed beaches and recommending the use of lifeguarded or sheltered southern beaches. They also warned against venturing onto rocks or jetties, as strong currents could sweep people away. The advisory provided safety tips for those caught in rip currents, emphasizing the importance of staying calm, floating, and swimming parallel to the shore until free. The meteorological service encouraged the public to monitor further updates on its official website and social media channels.
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Hurricane Humberto Passes Safely North of Antigua
Hurricane Humberto, a formidable Category 4 storm with sustained winds nearing 145 mph, has safely bypassed Antigua and Barbuda, maintaining a distance of over 350 miles north of the twin-island nation. While the hurricane’s direct impact has been avoided, its influence has disrupted local wind patterns, driving the heat index to a sweltering 40°C (104°F). Authorities in Antigua and Barbuda have urged residents to remain vigilant, stay cool, and monitor official advisories as the hurricane season persists.
Meanwhile, attention is shifting to Tropical Depression Nine, which is currently developing near the Bahamas. As of 2 p.m. EDT Saturday, the National Hurricane Center reported the system’s location approximately 195 miles northwest of eastern Cuba and 120 miles south-southwest of the central Bahamas. With maximum sustained winds of 35 mph and a northwestward movement at 6 mph, the depression poses a growing concern. Tropical storm warnings are now in effect for parts of the central and northwestern Bahamas, while a watch has been issued for sections of Florida’s east coast. Heavy rainfall continues to affect eastern Cuba and the Bahamas, and U.S. Air Force hurricane hunters are en route to assess the system.
As the Atlantic hurricane season remains active, residents across the region are advised to stay informed and prepared for potential weather disruptions.