OPM- Prime Minister the Honourable Gaston Browne has announced that the Government of Antigua and Barbuda will make 55 lots available to local citizens at Shell Beach, providing a new and targeted opportunity for Antiguans and Barbudans to invest directly in the growing tourism accommodation market through the construction of Airbnb-style investment properties.
The announcement was made during his feature address at the launch of the ACB Invest Programme/Unit, hosted by Antigua Commercial Bank (ACB Caribbean).
The Prime Minister stated that the initiative is scheduled to begin as early as next week, underscoring the Government’s continued focus on expanding economic opportunities for locals through asset ownership and entrepreneurship.
He urged members of the public to take advantage of the opportunity, describing Shell Beach as a prime location “either on the beach or close to the beach,” suitable for the development of attractive tourism accommodation.
Prime Minister Browne further announced that the Government will provide tax and duty-free waivers on building materials, fixtures and fittings to support the construction of these properties.
He explained that the policy support is part of a deliberate wealth-creation strategy, aimed at empowering citizens to build assets, generate income, and secure long-term financial stability.
In highlighting the commercial value of the initiative, Prime Minister Browne noted the significant increase in visitors being accommodated through Airbnb properties in recent years, estimating that such accommodation now accounts for approximately 35 percent of tourist stays in Antigua and Barbuda.
He described the Shell Beach initiative as a practical avenue for locals to participate more meaningfully in the tourism sector, especially for those who may not have the capital required to invest in large-scale resort development.
The Prime Minister explained that while major hotel and resort projects remain critical to tourism growth, creating opportunities for individuals to build modest, well-appointed investment properties—complete with modern amenities such as small pools—offers a pathway to wealth generation for ordinary citizens.
He said the Shell Beach development aligns with the Government’s wider vision of ensuring that national growth is inclusive and that Antiguans and Barbudans can share more directly in the benefits of tourism expansion.
Prime Minister Browne reaffirmed that the Government’s broader policy approach is grounded in building what he described as a “stakeholder society,” where increased ownership and investment by citizens strengthen national resilience, improve social outcomes, and support intergenerational prosperity.
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