Antigua and Barbuda’s tourism sector is playing a central role in the nation’s robust economic recovery, with record-breaking growth in visitor arrivals and significant investments in infrastructure and services. During his 2025 Budget Statement, Prime Minister Gaston Browne highlighted the achievements of this vital industry, emphasizing its contribution to national development.
As of October 2024, stay-over visitor arrivals surged by an impressive 17% compared to the previous year. The United States led this growth, with arrivals increasing by 29%, while Canada and Europe recorded increases of 11% and 72%, respectively. Browne stated, “Such growth does not happen by chance—it is the result of strategic planning, targeted marketing, and the dedication of all stakeholders in the tourism industry.”
This unprecedented growth is expected to result in over 300,000 stay-over visitors for 2024, breaking the record set in 2019. Browne noted, “This growth is not just numbers on a chart. It is the lifeblood of our economy, directly supporting jobs, boosting small businesses, and generating valuable foreign exchange.”
In addition to stay-over tourism, Antigua and Barbuda’s cruise industry has also shown remarkable progress. Between January and October 2024, the country welcomed 570,339 cruise passengers—a 32% increase over the same period in 2023. This growth is no longer confined to the traditional peak season, reflecting the year-round appeal of the destination. “The benefits of a thriving tourism sector ripple through every segment—tour operators, transportation services, retailers, and countless others are reaping rewards,” Browne remarked.
The government’s investments in tourism infrastructure have been key to this success. The opening of the Barbuda International Airport, with its state-of-the-art facilities, and the launch of the Royalton Chic Hotel, which created over 500 new jobs, are among the notable achievements of 2024. Looking ahead, transformative projects like the One & Only at Half-Moon Bay, Rosewood Barbuda, and Marriott at Yeptons are set to begin construction in 2025. Over the next three years, more than $1 billion will be invested in these and other projects, creating thousands of jobs and opportunities for local businesses.
“Barbuda, in particular, has become a beacon of progress and a land of opportunity,” Browne stated. With over $1.5 billion invested in the PLH development and an additional $300 million earmarked for 2025, Barbuda is emerging as a key driver of national prosperity. Projects like the Paradise Found Resort and the Barbuda Silver Sands Resort further demonstrate the island’s growing appeal as a high-end luxury destination.
The government is also committed to ensuring that Antiguans and Barbudans benefit directly from tourism development. Initiatives such as local ownership projects at Pensioners Beach, Morris Bay, Willoughby Bay, and Shell Beach are providing citizens with opportunities to invest in Airbnb properties, condominiums, and other ventures. “We will establish a golf course on the northwestern coast of Barbuda and make lots available to Barbudans to construct Airbnb properties, so that they too can participate in this lucrative sector,” Browne announced.
Beyond economic benefits, tourism is raising Antigua and Barbuda’s profile on the global stage. The successful hosting of the United Nations Small Island Developing States (SIDS) Conference in May 2024 showcased the nation’s capacity to lead and innovate. The event attracted over 3,000 participants, including 22 heads of state, and resulted in the landmark “Antigua and Barbuda Agenda for SIDS.” Browne described this achievement as a demonstration that “small nations can lead with vision and determination.”
“Together, with the dedication of our people and the strength of our policies, we will continue to transform our economy, create opportunities for all, and ensure that every citizen and resident can share in the prosperity of our nation,” Browne concluded.
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