The government will introduce new cargo-scanning technology at the port in 2026 as part of a major push to strengthen border security, close revenue loopholes and crack down on tax evasion, Prime Minister Gaston Browne announced Thursday during the presentation of the 2026 national budget.
Browne said the Customs and Excise Division will undergo a significant upgrade aimed at reducing leakages that have cost the government millions in lost revenue. The new technology will allow for more accurate inspection of containers and improve the detection of under-invoicing, misclassification and other practices used to evade duties.
He said the current system relies too heavily on manual checks, human discretion and outdated procedures, which create opportunities for collusion and inefficiency. “Those who get caught robbing the revenue will pay heavily,” Browne warned, outlining a tougher enforcement posture for 2026.
The modernization programme will be paired with new internal controls, including staff rotation to prevent long-term relationships between brokers and officers, stricter spot checks and expanded audit capabilities. Browne said these measures are necessary not only to protect the border but also to safeguard government finances at a time when Antigua and Barbuda remains the lowest in the OECS in tax revenue as a share of GDP.
The Prime Minister noted that improved customs performance is essential to achieving fair taxation, strengthening fiscal stability and ensuring that honest importers are not disadvantaged by those who manipulate the system. He said the upgrades will support the broader revenue-enhancement strategy outlined in the budget, which includes digitisation of tax systems at both the ABST and Inland Revenue Department.
Browne framed the customs overhaul as part of a long-term shift toward a more modern, transparent and technology-driven public service. Additional details on the scanning equipment and rollout timeline are expected during next week’s budget debate.
