Prime Minister Gaston Browne says Antigua and Barbuda is poised to benefit from a wave of new maritime industries as the government accelerates its port modernization agenda and pushes toward establishing a regional transshipment hub.
Speaking at the commissioning of a new cargo-handling crane, Browne said the transformation of the Deepwater Harbour is expected to stimulate economic activity far beyond the port itself. He said the expansion of cargo capacity, improved technology and strengthened logistics infrastructure will create conditions for new sectors to emerge.
According to Browne, the move toward a fully operational transshipment port is set to open opportunities in bunkering, ship repair, marine supplies and warehousing — all high-value services that could be developed alongside growing cargo volumes.
“These are high-value services that will create entrepreneurial opportunities for Antiguans and Barbudans who wish to innovate, invest and contribute to our maritime economy,” he said.
Browne said the port upgrades will help attract major shipping lines seeking efficient and reliable partners in the Eastern Caribbean. Increased cargo volumes, he said, will also support lower freight and handling charges, benefiting businesses and reducing the overall cost of living.
He added that the expansion of maritime services would contribute to government revenues through additional taxes, fees and port-related activities, allowing for reinvestment in national development.
Browne said the broader port transformation — supported by more than EC$500 million in recent investment — will strengthen Antigua and Barbuda’s position in international trade, expand markets for local producers and support new career paths in logistics and technical fields.
He called the commissioning of the new crane “a symbol of progress” and said the country is preparing itself to thrive in a competitive global environment as it works to become a regional logistics powerhouse.
