Cabinet backs 2026 Cannabis Festival as national development initiative

The Cabinet of Antigua and Barbuda has approved the third annual Antigua and Barbuda Cannabis (ABC) Festival, due to take place from 17 to 20 April 2026 in St John’s and other locations across the island.

Speaking at the post-Cabinet briefing, Director General of Communications Maurice Merchant said the decision reflected the government’s support for the regulated development of the country’s medicinal cannabis industry.

Held under the theme “Connect. Celebrate. Rejuvenate.”, the four-day event will combine education, trade and cultural activities, with organisers aiming to position the country as a niche player in the global medicinal cannabis market.

Planned events include a cannabis education conference and trade show at the American University of Antigua, bringing together regional and international investors and researchers; a Rastafari “Sacred Gathering” in Liberta, St Paul’s; and a wellness-focused island experience and sunset cruise.

Mr Merchant said Cabinet viewed the festival as a strategic initiative to attract investment, promote regulatory standards and provide science-based public education on cannabis use.

The government believes the medicinal cannabis sector offers opportunities for innovation, entrepreneurship and economic diversification, as global demand for regulated products grows.

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