Antigua and Barbuda To Unveil Citizens Transparency Portal in 2025

The government of Antigua and Barbuda is taking bold steps to enhance fiscal transparency and accountability, with plans to launch a Citizens Transparency Portal in 2025. Prime Minister Gaston Browne unveiled the initiative during his 2025 Budget presentation, describing it as a transformative tool to empower citizens and build trust in government operations.

“This platform will allow the public to access information about government activities, including procurement, tax expenditure, and concessions,” Browne stated. The Citizens Transparency Portal is designed to ensure that taxpayers have real-time insight into how public funds are being used, promoting greater accountability and civic engagement.

The portal will be part of a broader strategy to modernize the government’s financial management systems and improve public sector performance. Browne emphasized the importance of transparency in fostering economic resilience and maintaining public confidence. “Transparency and accountability are the cornerstones of good governance. By empowering citizens with knowledge, we are strengthening the foundations of our democracy,” he said.

In addition to the portal, the government has established a Fiscal Resilience Oversight Committee (FROC) to monitor compliance with fiscal principles and targets. Chaired by Dr. Errol Cort and including representatives from trade unions, the private sector, and the opposition, the committee is tasked with assessing the government’s fiscal performance and publishing annual reports.

The FROC has already begun engaging with key departments within the Ministry of Finance to address issues such as tax administration, expenditure management, and debt sustainability. In 2025, the committee plans to expand its outreach and provide detailed evaluations of government initiatives. “This independent oversight is essential for ensuring that we remain on track to achieve our fiscal goals,” Browne noted.

The government’s commitment to fiscal responsibility is reflected in the 2024 fiscal outcomes. Antigua and Barbuda is projected to achieve an overall fiscal surplus of $86.4 million, a remarkable turnaround from the $91.9 million deficit recorded in 2023. This $178 million improvement was driven by a combination of revenue growth and expenditure reforms, including better tax compliance and stricter budgetary controls.

Tax revenues in 2024 increased significantly, with the Antigua and Barbuda Sales Tax (ABST) alone generating $412.2 million—25% more than the previous year. Other key revenue sources, such as import duties and corporate taxes, also recorded substantial gains. However, Browne cautioned that non-compliance with tax laws remains a challenge. “Those who continue to manipulate ABST payments will be vigorously pursued and subjected to the applicable legal penalties,” he warned.

Non-tax revenues also played a crucial role in the fiscal turnaround, particularly the $103 million generated from the sale of the Alfa Nero superyacht. Additionally, Citizenship by Investment (CIP) receipts grew by 30% to $80.4 million, contributing to the overall increase in government revenue.

The government is leveraging these improved revenues to address long-standing obligations and invest in critical sectors. In 2024, approximately $50 million was allocated to clear arrears to contractors and merchants, while $4.7 million was paid to settle salary upgrades for teachers dating back to 2019. Browne confirmed that this approach would continue in 2025, with a focus on reducing outstanding liabilities and maintaining fiscal discipline.

To ensure the sustainability of these efforts, the 2025 Budget includes measures to strengthen financial oversight and promote compliance. The government plans to introduce digital tools to streamline tax collection and simplify processes for businesses and individuals. Browne described these reforms as essential for creating a fair and efficient tax system. “We must ensure that everyone pays their fair share and that the government fulfills its obligations transparently,” he said.

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