Antigua and Barbuda’s Economic Renaissance is Pointing to the Future: A Testament to Visionary Leadership and Strategic Development
by Dr. Edmond A. Mansoor
Antigua and Barbuda has embarked on a remarkable journey of economic revitalization and development. Under the astute leadership of Prime Minister Gaston Browne, the nation has witnessed significant growth across various sectors, positioning it as a burgeoning hub for tourism and investment. This opinion piece delves into the multifaceted progress achieved, the challenges encountered, and the strategic initiatives propelling Antigua and Barbuda toward a prosperous 2025.
Economic Growth and Sectoral Expansion
In 2024, Antigua and Barbuda’s economy experienced a robust real GDP growth of 6%, elevating the national economy to $6.0 billion. This impressive expansion is attributed to a diversified approach encompassing tourism, construction, and agriculture. The tourism sector, a cornerstone of the nation’s economy, reached unprecedented heights by welcoming 1.1 million visitors via sea and air, marking a 15% increase compared to the previous year. This surge underscores the nation’s appeal as a premier Caribbean destination.
The construction industry has mirrored this upward trajectory, with a notable increase in new home developments and the commencement of construction on several hotel projects slated for the coming months. This construction boom has not only enhanced infrastructure but also generated employment opportunities, contributing to the very low recorded unemployment rates. However, the rapid development has led to a scarcity of skilled labor, particularly among plumbers, carpenters, and masons, indicating a need for targeted vocational training to meet industry demands.
Agriculture, though traditionally overshadowed by tourism, has experienced commendable growth, contributing to the nation’s economic diversification and food security. The government’s commitment to revitalizing this sector is evident through initiatives aimed at increasing local production and reducing import dependency.
Fiscal Performance and Infrastructure Development
The fiscal landscape of Antigua and Barbuda has strengthened considerably, with the Customs and Excise Division collecting an unprecedented $502.6 million in taxes in 2024—a 25% increase over the previous year. This surge in revenue reflects robust economic activity and effective tax administration, providing the government with the financial leverage to invest in critical infrastructure projects.
Significant investments have been channeled into educational infrastructure, notably the completion of the Harrison Centre, a vocational school enrolling over 800 students. This institution plays a pivotal role in equipping the workforce with essential skills, addressing the labor shortages in the construction sector, and fostering a culture of technical proficiency.
The University of the West Indies Five Islands Campus stands as a beacon of higher education, with over 1100 students currently enrolled. The planned $200 million expansion of this campus is poised to create further opportunities for advanced learning, nurturing a knowledge-based society that is critical for the nation’s growth, development, and competitiveness on a global scale.
Tourism: The Jewel in the Crown
Antigua and Barbuda’s tourism sector has solidified its status as a global hub for luxury travel. The inauguration of a new international airport in Barbuda facilitates direct flights from international destinations, enhancing accessibility and positioning the island as a prime destination for high-net-worth individuals. The Peace, Love, and Happiness (PLH) project, alongside substantial investments from figures like Robert De Niro, have infused millions of US dollars into the local economy, fostering job creation and infrastructural development.
The nation’s appeal to affluent travelers is further evidenced by the unprecedented number of yachts participating in the annual Antigua Charter Yacht Show in 2024. Local entrepreneurship within the tourism sector is thriving, with Antiguans and Barbudans owning over 450 tourism-related enterprises. Notably, 85% of Airbnb properties are locally owned, and the government’s provision of additional plots for Airbnb development at locations such as Pensioners, Morris Bay, and Shell Beach underscores a commitment to inclusive economic participation.
Strategic Investments in Aviation and Climate Leadership
Looking ahead to 2025, a $165 million investment is earmarked for upgrading the V.C. Bird International Airport, with additional funding allocated for extending the Barbuda runway and constructing a new terminal building. These enhancements are vital for maintaining the islands’ prominence in global tourism, ensuring that earnings and opportunities continue to multiply for Antiguans and Barbudans.
Prime Minister Gaston Browne has demonstrated international leadership on issues of climate change and climate justice, positioning Antigua and Barbuda as a proactive advocate for sustainable development. This stance not only elevates the nation’s global standing but also attracts environmentally conscious investors and tourists, aligning economic growth with ecological responsibility.
Challenges and Mitigation Strategies
Despite these successes, challenges persist that have the potential to start to erode the significant progress achieved. The number one challenge that has the highest potential for eroding the economic prosperity is the episodic increase both in petty crime and serious crime. Whilst Antigua and Barbuda remains a relatively safe piece of paradise that citizens, residents and visitors thoroughly enjoy, the Caribbean-wide trend of an increase in gun-related crimes hasn’t spared this twin-island paradise, and the recent decisions by the Government to enhance crime-fighting measures with a slew of new announcements are expected to keep the crime numbers down.
If Antigua and Barbuda is getting ready to attract the next quarter million visitors to our beautiful shores, it is an imperative for digital technology and artificial intelligence to be deployed to both deter crime and to detect it quickly when it occurs. This author is certain that the visionary leadership of the ABLP Government under Prime Minister Gaston Browne will ensure the deployment of the appropriate human resource and the technologies to guarantee the peace and tranquility.
Infrastructure deficits, particularly concerning road conditions and water shortages, pose substantial obstacles. The government has responded with a $21 million deployment of equipment to repair community roads in Antigua, a budgetary allocation of $50 M to begin the much-needed repair of roads in Barbuda, and a $110 million investment in water infrastructure. This investment in the water production and distribution operations of APUA’s Water Business Unit aims to increase water production by 5 million gallons per day, with a target of meeting the national demand of 13 million gallons daily by September, 2025.
If it is not already doing so, the Ministry of Public Works should utilize the geospatial data that exists at the Ministry of Lands to develop a clear plan for its road repair program. The road resurfacing program has accelerated significantly in the last few weeks, but it isn’t sufficient for the Director of Public Works to state that the “roads will be fixed”. By using the geospatial data and by applying a scoring system that Public Works can develop with APUA, a highly-organized, systematic plan can be developed that ensures that the road resurfacing program meets the expectations of both the political directorate and the citizenry. If the scoring system is accurate, the worst roads should be fixed first.
Indiscriminate littering and unauthorized vending present ongoing environmental and regulatory challenges. The government’s announcement to demolish derelict properties is a step toward urban renewal and maintaining the aesthetic appeal crucial for tourism. However, sustained public education and enforcement are essential to cultivate a culture of environmental stewardship.
The Prime Minister and the Cabinet should consider the establishment of a Commission on Rural and Environmental Development (C-RED) to blue-print the transformation and modernization in phases of rural Antigua and Barbuda and to advance preparations for welcoming up to 1.5 million visitors in the next few years. I will expand on this concept in future opinion pieces.
Political Leadership and Investor Confidence
Political leadership (people-centric Prime Minister), tourism leadership (5th cruise berthing facility, impending upgrades at the V. C. Bird International Airport, new airport in Barbuda, new hotels and Airbnb properties, etc.) coupled with climate leadership (climate justice, multidimensional vulnerability index [MVI], SIDS Centre of Excellence, Global Data Hub), global leadership (heightened admiration and respect for Antigua and Barbuda at the United Nations and in other international fora) and educational leadership (Harrison Centre, $200 M expansion of UWI Five Islands Campus) are the constituent elements to further solidify Antigua and Barbuda as a powerhouse twin-island nation that consistently punches above its weight.
The correlation between strong political leadership and economic prosperity is exemplified in Antigua and Barbuda’s recent trajectory. Prime Minister Gaston Browne’s administration has fostered a high-performance culture driven by entrepreneurial acumen, instilling confidence among investors and the citizenry. The transition of Canadian-owned banks to local ownership has resulted in bigger and stronger indigenous financial institutions, reflecting a commitment to economic sovereignty and resilience.
The hosting of the United Nations Small Island Developing States (SIDS) conference in 2024, along with several regional and hemispheric conferences, has cemented Antigua and Barbuda’s status as an emerging regional diplomatic center. Such events not only boost the local economy but also enhance the nation’s international profile, attracting further investment and tourism.
2025 is poised to be a marquee year in Antigua. Every single Antiguan and Barbuda, every citizen and resident, has a role to play in this country’s economic renaissance.
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Excellent article! Antigua and Barbuda is truly blessed.
Do you know that UPP members used to be afraid of this man? When he barked at them and throw his weight around because he was Baldwin’s boy. Rough up who he wanted, and appeared when he feel like.
LOOK AT HIM NOW!
Have to give it to Gaston. All of them even this one run to heel
What a shame.
Good read!
Dr. Mansoor’s article more than adequately captures the remarkable strides Antigua and Barbuda have made under Prime Minister Gaston Browne. The focus on diversifying the economy, strengthening fiscal performance, and addressing critical challenges like crime and infrastructure is more than commendable. The balance between economic growth and environmental stewardship is particularly noteworthy.
Antigua and Barbuda’s proactive approach to integrating technology and education, through initiatives like the Harrison Centre and UWI Five Islands expansion, lays a strong foundation for a skilled and competitive workforce. Moreover, the emphasis on tourism, local entrepreneurship, and rural development highlights the inclusivity of this economic renaissance.
This trajectory of progress showcases how forward-thinking leadership and community engagement can drive a nation toward prosperity while addressing global challenges. Truly, Antigua and Barbuda stand as a shining example of resilience, innovation, and unity.
Eloquent speaker and even better writer.
I suppose that the ALP lapdogs and cronies are not mocking him anymore
They never mocked him. It was the Man Cow aka Lipstick Hog aka Chaos Demon that was mocked………… “You can put lipstick on a pig, it’s still a hog!”
It’s a well-done article. Thanks for your insight.
I am still a supporter of the UPP but they cannot recognize talent, just hope they can somehow get their act together, when I talk about talent I’m not referring to people like the over inflated wind bag Dwayne George and Lamin. Just hope our leadership can get things right, it no look good
It is sad that only when people come over to the Labour Party they fully expose their real potential. The PM really brings out the best in people, and he sees who has talent. The UPP on the other hand, kills and keep people with talent down. Not giving them a chance to develop themselves.
I would say to those that are still there and know that they have talent, come out a that quickly before it’s too late.
@Less We Forget
Remember that both Pringle and Pearl “FOOTS” Quinn declared they don’t need any further education or degree to govern tissue country
Boi, Mansoor, you really working overtime to curry favour with those Red Devils!! Anyway, in the land of the Dunce and Dumb any mediocrity will shine.
Fine words.
Antigua is a mess.electricity going off and on.water more off than on.no cancer centre.irregular meds at mbs.no clinic in cobbs cross and all saints. Where’s the cemetery. Post office not reliable. Poor people struggling to buy food and buy shoes for their children.
Just before elections 2 years ago, Gaston said work was going to start at five islands and on the pool in a few weeks. Nothing start yet.
Any tourism money is reaching the average man,?They don’t love Antiguans, Max is competing with taxi drivers from cruise ships. If you have a tray by the market, inland revenue bringing tax form for you to fill out.
This was written under duress and in distress..