REPORT FROM THE CABINET OF ANTIGUA AND BARBUDA
MEETING OF WEDNESDAY 12th NOVEMBER 2025
The prayers before Cabinet were led by a Pastor from the Baptist Church who read from the Gospel according to Matthew 5:16 which reads:
“In the same way, let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven.”
In that Reading Jesus is encouraging His followers to live in a way that reflects God’s goodness. By doing good deeds openly—not for attention, but to honor God—others will see the light of God’s love through them and be inspired to praise and glorify God. In short: Live so that your actions point people toward God.
The Pastor prayed for members of the Cabinet will be guided by this verse in the execution of their daily duties. He prayed for God’s blessings on them and their families.
1. Wednesday’s Cabinet Meeting was chaired by Prime Minister the Hon. Gaston Browne. The Management Team at the Ministry of Public Works was invited to the Cabinet to provide an update on its efforts to improving the quality, durability, and cost-effectiveness of Antigua and Barbuda’s road infrastructure through the adoption of innovative and sustainable technologies.
Over the years, the Ministry has observed that traditional methods of road construction have often failed to deliver the desired longevity and quality, resulting in frequent repairs and rising maintenance costs. In response, the Minister of Public Works and her Executive Team mandated the Engineering Department to explore resilient and affordable alternatives capable of transforming the nation’s road-building practices.
Through this initiative, the Roads Department — in collaboration with Engineer Joseph Prempeh — identified two promising technologies:
- “SILICONPOX” road stabilization technology, designed to strengthen the base and sub-base of road structures; and
- Natural Asphalt Cold Mix (“Asfaltita”), a durable, energy-efficient, cold-applied wearing surface developed by Hermis Corporation of Colombia.
Following engagement with Hermis Corporation, an official delegation comprising the Acting Director of Works, a Senior Engineer, and Eng. Prempeh visited Pereira, Colombia, from October 16–21, 2025, to observe the application and performance of these technologies.
During the technical visit, the delegation inspected several successful project sites utilizing the SILICONPOX soil stabilization method and the Natural Asphalt Cold Mix, confirming their potential suitability for local conditions.
Siliconpox is categorised as a soil stabiliser — it treats clayey or silty soils and transforms their mechanical and functional properties.
- it chemically reacts with the soil structure (via surface tension and macro-structure change) to improve strength, reduce permeability and enhance load bearing capacity.
- It’s presented as an environmentally-friendly option: non-flammable, non-explosive, low ecotoxicity, uses existing soil rather than importing large amounts of aggregate or quarry material.
- its main role is producing a stronger and more durable base/subgrade improves the “foundation” for asphalt, thereby increasing the system’s lifespan, reducing maintenance frequency, and improving resilience (especially in weaker soil contexts).
- Will significantly lengthen the life of asphalt pavements. Typical improvement: 30–50%
- Best-case improvement: Up to 100% (where soil types are very weak before treatment)
And works out to be cheaper than the traditional method currently being used
The Ministry also presented to Hermis Corporation the “Saint John’s Next Level Face Lift” infrastructure concept — a visionary development model proposing the conversion of Tanner Street into a Tourist and Vendors Boulevard, under an EPC+F (Engineering, Procurement, Construction and Financing) framework.
The team sought and was granted Cabinet’s permission to select the Burning Flames Highway as the pilot project site for the introduction of the SILICONPOX road stabilization and Natural Asphalt Cold Mix technologies. This pilot will allow the Ministry to evaluate the performance, durability, and cost-efficiency of the new method under local environmental and traffic conditions.
Minister Maria Browne told the Cabinet that the launch of the pilot on the Burning Flames Highway represents a major step toward revolutionizing how the Ministry of Works construct and maintain the nation’s roads.
The Ministry will continue to collaborate with Hermis Corporation and relevant local partners to implement the pilot and monitor its outcomes. Findings from this project will inform broader adoption of these technologies in future national road construction and rehabilitation programmes.
2. The Cabinet of Antigua and Barbuda, at its meeting held on Wednesday, noted its approval on 8th October of the implementation of the Harmonized System 2022 (HS 2022) classification and the reduction of the Common External Tariff (CET) on a list of essential food items.
In July 2025, the Council for Trade and Economic Development (COTED) approved Antigua and Barbuda’s request to suspend the CET on a range of basic food commodities, allowing for a zero percent (0%) duty rate from 1 July 2025 to 30 June 2026. This measure is intended to cushion the impact of rising global food prices and ensure that Antiguan and Barbudan households continue to have access to affordable staple foods.
The approved list includes essential items such as:
• Fresh vegetables (e.g. potatoes, carrots, cabbage, broccoli)
• Fresh fruits
• Pulses and legumes (e.g. lentils, chickpeas, black-eyed peas)
• Canned proteins (e.g. sardines, mackerel, corned beef)
• Infant foods and cereals
• Cooking oils (e.g. olive oil, coconut oil, corn oil)
In relation to the above Decision, The Cabinet at its Meeting on Wednesday agreed that:
1. The Customs and Excise Department, in collaboration with the Ministry of Trade and the Ministry of Legal Affairs, will finalize the HS 2022 documentation for submission to Parliament before December 31, 2025, to ensure implementation effective January 1, 2026.
2. The Prices and Consumer Affairs Division will take the necessary steps to monitor the prices of the relevant food items to ensure that the benefits of the reduced rates are passed on to consumers.
3. The Division will report back to Cabinet within 30 days on the extent to which the price reductions are being reflected at the consumer level.
The Cabinet reaffirmed its commitment to protecting consumers from the effects of global price fluctuations and ensuring that the benefits of government policy interventions are directly felt by the people of Antigua and Barbuda.
Meanwhile, the Cabinet has directed the Hon. Minister responsible for Agriculture, Anthony Smith to coordinate with his counterpart Minister in Guyana to facilitate Antigua and Barbuda purchasing fresh fruits and vegetables and other food items produced in Guyana for the Antigua and Barbuda consumers.
This decision follows discussion between Prime Minister Gaston Browne and President Ali of Guyana on the margins of COP30 Meeting in Belize. The aim is to secure cheaper fruits, vegetables and other food items at a cheaper rate in comparison to items purchased from other source markets.
3. The Cabinet of Antigua and Barbuda approved the establishment of a Dental and Eye Clinic in Codrington, Barbuda, as part of the Government’s continued commitment to improving healthcare access and equity across the twin-island state.
For decades, residents of Barbuda have faced significant challenges in accessing reliable dental and eye care services. Procedures such as extractions, fillings, and vision testing required travel to Antigua, posing difficulties for many due to cost, transportation, and weather conditions. The new clinic will eliminate this long-standing disparity by bringing essential oral and vision health services directly to the people of Barbuda.
The project forms a key part of the Government’s National Health Strategic Plan (2021–2025) and the Barbuda Recovery and Resilience Framework, which prioritise equitable access to healthcare and the decentralisation of critical social services. It also aligns with the principles of the Sustainable Island Resource Framework (SIRF) by promoting climate-resilient and community-based infrastructure that enhances quality of life and supports sustainable living on Barbuda.
The Dental and Eye Clinic will be integrated within or adjacent to the Barbuda Health Centre, utilising existing utilities, administrative resources, and security infrastructure. This approach ensures cost-effectiveness and maximises service continuity. The clinic will be staffed initially by a rotating team of dental surgeons and ophthalmologists from Antigua, supported by trained nurses and technicians in Barbuda. Over time, the Ministry of Health will implement training programmes to develop local capacity and promote self-reliance in basic dental and eye care.
Cabinet has authorised the Ministry of Health, Wellness, Environment and Civil Service Affairs to lead the planning, coordination, and implementation of the project. The Ministry will also collaborate with regional and international development partners—including the Pan American Health Organization (PAHO), the Caribbean Development Bank (CDB), and other donor agencies—to secure technical assistance, equipment, and complementary funding to strengthen the clinic’s long-term sustainability.
Preparatory works, including site readiness and procurement, are expected to commence within three months, with full operationalisation anticipated within six to eight months of Cabinet’s approval. The Ministry will submit a comprehensive implementation report to Cabinet within three months, detailing the project’s budget, timelines, staffing, and partnership arrangements.
This initiative represents another major step in Government’s mission to ensure that all citizens—regardless of geography—have access to quality healthcare services.
The Cabinet also approved the construction of a Helipad close to the Hanna Thomas Hospital. This will ensure swift transfer of patients between Antigua and Barbuda.
The Cabinet also approved the expansion of a medical laboratory at the Hanna Thomas Hospital along with the establishment of a Blood Bank to serve the hospital.
4. The Cabinet of Antigua and Barbuda approved the construction of a purpose-built facility for vendors at Little Ffryes Beach, aimed at improving the working conditions of local entrepreneurs, enhancing the visitor experience, and ensuring the sustainable management of one of the nation’s most popular beaches.
The initiative forms part of the Government’s ongoing programme to upgrade and regularise vending operations at major tourism sites across the country. Over the years, Little Ffryes Beach has become a major attraction for both residents and visitors, with local vendors contributing significantly to the area’s appeal and economic vitality. However, the lack of structured facilities has presented challenges related to sanitation, safety, and the orderly conduct of business.
The new facility will provide modern, sanitary, and environmentally friendly vending spaces, designed to harmonise with the natural beauty of the beachfront. It will feature improved infrastructure, including proper waste disposal systems, restroom facilities, upgraded water and electricity connections, and designated parking and access areas.
Cabinet has directed that the project be undertaken through the Ministry of Tourism, Civil Aviation, Transportation and Investment, in collaboration with the Development Control Authority (DCA) and the Antigua and Barbuda Tourism Authority. The Ministry will also work closely with the existing vendors to ensure that their needs are reflected in the design and implementation of the project, and that operations remain uninterrupted during the construction period.
The development of this purpose-built vending facility underscores the Government’s commitment to:
1. Supporting small and micro-enterprise development by creating safe and regulated spaces for local vendors;
2. Enhancing the overall visitor experience by improving aesthetics and amenities at key tourism sites; and
3. Promoting sustainable tourism through environmentally responsible infrastructure and community engagement.
Construction of the new facility is expected to begin shortly following the completion of design and consultation phases. The project represents another tangible investment in empowering local entrepreneurs while protecting Antigua and Barbuda’s natural and cultural assets.
Cabinet also approved the removal of all unauthorized vending facilities from public beaches across Antigua and Barbuda and directed the relevant agencies to take enforcement action where necessary.
In accordance with the Cabinet decision, the Antigua Public Utilities Authority (APUA) and other relevant agencies have been instructed to disconnect utilities to unauthorized and unapproved vending operations located at:
• Morris Bay
• Darkwood Beach
• Fryers Beach
• Fort James
The Ministry of Social and Urban Transformation, in collaboration with the Development Control Authority, will oversee the transition process to ensure that affected vendors are appropriately supported and relocated to the new, purpose-built facility at Little Fryers Beach.
This initiative underscores the Government’s ongoing efforts to balance economic opportunity for small vendors with the need for orderly development, public safety, and environmental protection.
5. Prime Minister and Minister for Finance informed the Cabinet of the commencement of a Risk Management Capacity Building Mission being conducted by the Caribbean Regional Technical Assistance Centre (CARTAC) within the Customs and Excise Division from November 10 to 21, 2025.
The mission, which forms part of CARTAC’s regional programme of technical assistance, aims to strengthen the institutional capacity of the Customs and Excise Division in the area of risk management, with a focus on improving compliance, enforcement, and trade facilitation.
The CARTAC team will undertake a comprehensive Risk Management Diagnostic to assess:
• The Division’s organisational structure and enforcement capacity;
• The legal framework governing customs operations;
• Standard Operating Procedures and workflow processes;
• Utilisation of the ASYCUDA World Risk Engine;
• The design and management of the Division’s risk profile portfolio; and
• The practical application of risk management processes at key operational sites, including the Deepwater Harbour and V.C. Bird International Airport.
The mission will also review the Customs Division’s intelligence and investigation capacity and its engagement mechanisms with traders, brokers, and shippers.
As part of the initiative, CARTAC will deliver a three-day interactive training programme for enforcement officers and managers of the Customs Division. The training is based on IMF and World Customs Organization (WCO) methodologies and will cover:
• The strategic application of Compliance Risk Management (CRM) to enhance enforcement and facilitate legitimate trade;
• The role of CRM in improving governance, transparency, and accountability;
• The application of the ISO 31000 risk management framework in customs operations; and
• The use of compliance risk scoring to guide enforcement and facilitation priorities.
Upon completion of the mission, CARTAC will present its findings, recommendations, and a draft implementation logframe to the Comptroller of Customs, the Ministry of Finance, and ultimately the Cabinet for review and approval.
The Cabinet of Antigua and Barbuda expresses its appreciation to CARTAC for its continued partnership and technical support in advancing institutional reform and capacity building within the public sector.
CARTAC will also be engaged to carry out similar missions in other sectors of Government to include the Immigration Department and the Treasury Department.
6. The Cabinet of Antigua and Barbuda considered a submission by the Honourable Sir Molwyn Joseph, Minister responsible for the Public Service concerning the need to enhance financial management, accountability, and professional standards within the Accounts Departments across government ministries.
Following deliberations, the Cabinet approved measures to establish qualified accountants within Accounts Departments, across all Ministries, Departments, and Statutory Bodies of the Government of Antigua and Barbuda.
The Cabinet’s decision mandates that:
1. All Accounts Departments must be staffed by qualified and experienced accounting professionals, holding at minimum a Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, or a related discipline, with professional certification such as ACCA, CPA, or ICAN being an added advantage.
2. Existing staff who do not meet these qualification standards are to be transferred or redeployed to other departments or roles where their skills may be more effectively utilized.
3. The Ministry of Finance, in collaboration with the Department of the Public Service, will oversee the implementation of this directive to ensure uniform compliance throughout the public sector.
This initiative is part of the Government’s ongoing effort to:
• Ensure financial credibility and accountability across the public service;
• Strengthen internal controls and ensure compliance with financial regulations;
• Improve the accuracy and timeliness of financial reporting; and
• Enhance efficiency, transparency, and professional standards within government operations.
The Cabinet reaffirmed its commitment to maintaining the highest standards of fiscal management and transparency in the administration of public resources, ensuring that every ministry and agency operates in accordance with sound accounting principles and modern financial governance practice.
7. The Deputy Director of the Census Bureau was invited to the Cabinet to update members on the ongoing implementation of the 2025 National Census of Antigua and Barbuda, which represents one of the country’s most important national data collection exercises.
The Census is designed to gather accurate and comprehensive information on the nation’s population and housing characteristics, providing a foundation for evidence-based planning and development across all sectors.
Deputy Director of the Census Bureau, reported that the current enumeration phase is progressing steadily, with over 400 trained enumerators deployed across districts to collect data from approximately 30,000 to 40,000 households. The team includes both experienced personnel and newly trained recruits, ensuring that every household in the nation is reached.
The Bureau acknowledged that the Christmas season presents traditional challenges for enumeration, as many households are unavailable for interviews during the holiday period. To minimize disruptions, enumerator adjustments and scheduling changes were implemented in advance, with additional personnel to be deployed in January 2026 to maintain full coverage.
The Deputy Director further confirmed that, subject to smooth continuation of field operations, the Bureau expects to produce preliminary census results by the end of the first quarter of 2026.
The Bureau highlighted the importance of public awareness and cooperation for the successful completion of the Census. A communication campaign is being implemented in partnership with Marketing Machine, which was contracted to manage outreach activities across state and social media platforms. Cabinet agreed that the National Radio and TV Station ABS will play a more integral role in the public awareness and communication campaign.
The Deputy Director informed the Cabinet that the Bureau remains on course to complete field operations early in 2026 and release preliminary results by the end of the first quarter
Advertise with the mоѕt vіѕіtеd nеwѕ ѕіtе іn Antigua!
We offer fully customizable and flexible digital marketing packages.
Contact us at [email protected]
Much about nothing, perhaps the politicians speak Spanish so this fellow does interpretation.