$18 Million Barbuda Seaport On The Horizons

Barbuda is set to undergo a major transformation with the development of an $18 million multipurpose seaport, a project that promises to enhance regional connectivity and stimulate economic growth. Announced by Prime Minister Gaston Browne in his 2025 Budget presentation, the seaport will accommodate container traffic, passenger ferries, and cruise ships, positioning Barbuda as a critical hub for trade and tourism in the Caribbean.

The seaport project, described as a vital step in Barbuda’s development, will address longstanding infrastructure gaps and support the island’s emergence as a luxury tourism destination. The Antigua Port Authority has already engaged expert consultants to carry out environmental impact assessments, geotechnical studies, and cost-benefit analyses to ensure the project’s success.

Prime Minister Browne emphasized the transformative potential of the seaport, stating, “This project will not only enhance Barbuda’s connectivity but also provide new opportunities for trade, tourism, and economic activity, benefiting both residents and visitors.”

The seaport is designed to serve multiple purposes, including:

• Container Traffic: The facility will streamline the transport of goods, reducing costs and improving supply chains for businesses and residents.
• Passenger Ferries: Improved ferry services will facilitate easier travel between Barbuda and neighboring islands, enhancing accessibility for residents and tourists alike.
• Cruise Ships: The seaport will accommodate cruise vessels, attracting international visitors and supporting the growth of Barbuda’s tourism sector.

The integration of these services is expected to create a ripple effect across the island’s economy, supporting industries such as retail, hospitality, and transportation.

The seaport project is part of a broader strategy to leverage Barbuda’s untapped economic potential. Investments in tourism, including the $1.5 billion PLH Development and the $57 million Paradise Found project, have already begun to reshape the island’s economic landscape. The seaport will complement these initiatives by providing the infrastructure needed to support increased economic activity.

“With the development of the seaport, Barbuda will be better equipped to handle the demands of its growing economy,” Browne stated. “It will open doors to new business opportunities and create jobs for residents.”

The government’s partnership with PLH, which allocates 50% of transfer taxes and other levies paid by the developer to road infrastructure and other improvements, will further support the island’s economic growth.

The seaport will also play a critical role in improving regional trade and integration. By enabling direct container shipments and cruise ship arrivals, Barbuda will strengthen its connections with other Caribbean islands and international markets. This increased connectivity is expected to attract new business ventures and investments, further diversifying the island’s economy.

Additionally, the project aligns with the government’s commitment to climate-resilient infrastructure. Comprehensive environmental and feasibility studies will ensure that the seaport meets sustainability standards while minimizing its impact on Barbuda’s pristine environment.

The Barbuda seaport project reflects the government’s broader vision for the island as a beacon of sustainable development and economic opportunity. It is part of a series of infrastructure investments designed to uplift Barbuda and create a harmonious and prosperous future for its residents.

Prime Minister Browne expressed optimism about the island’s trajectory, stating, “Barbuda is emerging as a key driver of our national prosperity. The seaport project will ensure that Barbuda’s transformation benefits all who call the island home.”

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