Prime Minister Gaston Browne will present the 2026 National Budget today, with government sources indicating there will be no new taxes and several benefits for public servants as the country heads into the new financial year.
Officials say the administration expects to meet its revenue targets through increased economic activity and a reduction in certain concessions offered to businesses, rather than by introducing additional tax measures. The budget will outline fiscal priorities for 2026 and is projected to exceed EC$2 billion.
According to information shared ahead of the presentation, the government plans to continue its practice of paying December salaries early, allowing public servants to take advantage of the reduction in the Antigua and Barbuda Sales Tax scheduled for December 19–21. Sources also indicate that workers could receive back pay and another salary increase, with the possibility of a second salary being paid before year-end.
Browne is expected to provide an update on government revenue performance, coming after what officials describe as another strong year in which actual collections surpassed budgeted projections. Allocations for each ministry will also be detailed during the presentation.
The budget presentation will set the tone for the government’s spending and development agenda in 2026, as Antigua and Barbuda prepares for continued economic expansion and major international events scheduled for the year.
