标签： Antigua and Barbuda

The Cabinet of Antigua and Barbuda, under the leadership of Prime Minister Gaston Browne, convened on October 15, 2025, to address critical national issues, including revenue control, water infrastructure improvements, and a groundbreaking water-security partnership with Japan. The meeting began with a prayer led by a pastor from the Evangelical Association, emphasizing trust in divine guidance for decision-making.

Cabinet members discussed the need to strengthen revenue collection frameworks, particularly in response to unauthorized vehicle purchases. The Ministry of Finance was tasked with reviewing these cases and ensuring restitution for any irregularities. Additionally, all government vehicles will undergo audits and be affixed with approved license plates, except for specific high-ranking officials.

The Minister for Utilities provided updates on ongoing water infrastructure projects managed by the Antigua Public Utilities Authority (APUA). Key developments include the reactivation of the Lower Buckleys Reservoir, expansion of production capacity at Pigeon Point and Pattersons Plants, and plans for new reservoirs in Wink-Eye Hill and New Winthropes. These efforts aim to enhance water distribution and support the growing yachting sector.

In response to recent heavy rainfall, the Minister for Health reported flooding at Tranquility Park Cemetery and other burial sites. Cabinet approved the installation of a drainage system to address waterlogging issues.

A significant highlight of the meeting was the approval of a partnership with Japan’s WOTA Corporation to implement decentralized, autonomous water-recycling systems. This initiative, supported by the Government of Japan, will deploy 500 WOTA systems across Antigua and Barbuda, promoting water security and sustainability. The Cabinet also agreed to consider tax exemptions for WOTA systems to encourage widespread adoption.

Prime Minister Browne praised the partnership as a model for innovation and climate resilience, particularly for Small Island Developing States (SIDS). The collaboration is expected to set a regional benchmark for sustainable water management in the Caribbean.

In a move that has sparked widespread concern, the government of Antigua and Barbuda is proposing amendments to the Tax Administration Act, which critics argue could severely erode private property rights. The bill, which lowers the threshold for the government to seize private property under the pretext of collecting outstanding taxes, has been met with fierce opposition from citizens and legal experts alike.

In a significant move to bolster its aviation sector, Antigua and Barbuda’s Parliament has ratified a groundbreaking Air Services Agreement with Saudi Arabia. The bilateral treaty, signed on September 24, 2025, during the 42nd Assembly of the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) in Montreal, establishes a modern legal framework for airline operations, route rights, and aviation cooperation between the two nations. Tourism and Civil Aviation Minister Charles Max Fernandez presented the resolution, emphasizing its role in Antigua and Barbuda’s broader strategy to expand global air connectivity, particularly with emerging aviation markets in the Middle East. Fernandez highlighted that the agreement includes provisions for ‘fifth freedom’ traffic rights, codesharing, and updated aviation safety and security standards, all of which are expected to enhance the viability of long-haul routes and foster greater regional and international connectivity. The minister also revealed growing investment interest from Middle Eastern partners, including a proposal from a Dubai-based group to redevelop the old terminal building at V.C. Bird International Airport into a facility for aircraft maintenance, repair, and flight training operations. Fernandez underscored the importance of local leadership in this growing international aviation network, noting the contributions of Antiguan-born aviation executive Miguel Southwell, who currently serves as CEO of the Antigua and Barbuda Airport Authority. The motion was approved without objection, with Speaker Sir Gerald Watt declaring the resolution successfully passed. The government anticipates that the agreement will boost tourism, cargo, and investment opportunities, positioning Antigua and Barbuda as a strategic bridge between the Caribbean and the Middle East, and advancing its long-term goal of establishing Antigua as a modern air transport hub.

In a landmark decision, the House of Representatives has unanimously approved the compulsory acquisition of land in St. Mary’s South, setting the stage for a transformative government housing project. The initiative, spearheaded by Attorney General and St. John’s City South MP Sir Steadroy Benjamin, aims to construct 50 affordable homes for young families, with an estimated investment of EC$10 million. The resolution, introduced under Section 3 of the Land Acquisition Act (Cap. 233), underscores the government’s commitment to addressing housing needs and fostering inclusive development. Sir Steadroy emphasized that the acquisition serves a public purpose, ensuring that young residents in the area have access to homeownership opportunities. He assured that the process adheres to legal protocols, including fair valuation and compensation for landowners. While opposition members supported the project’s objectives, they advocated for enhanced consultation with local representatives to align developments with community priorities. Sir Steadroy welcomed the collaborative spirit, reiterating the government’s vision of creating a fair and inclusive society. The project, developed in partnership with the Ministry of Housing and Public Works, will focus on delivering climate-resilient homes, with construction slated to commence post-acquisition and subdivision processes.