From Antiguan Seamoss to Tourism – Greene Details Ripple Effect of U.S. Tariffs

From Antiguan Seamoss to Tourism – Greene Details Ripple Effect of U.S. Tariffs

Foreign Affairs Minister and ABLP Chairman EP Chet Greene has warned that sweeping U.S. tariffs on imports could have far-reaching consequences for Antigua and Barbuda’s economy, stretching from small businesses to the tourism sector.

Speaking on Pointe FM over the weekend, Greene pointed to a local entrepreneur who produces seamoss drinks and relies on Chinese-manufactured bottles to package his product. With the United States imposing a 145% tariff on certain Chinese goods, Greene said the cost of importing those bottles could become prohibitive.

“That young man imports his bottles from China to keep costs down. Now, if those bottles are routed through the U.S. and slapped with a 145% tariff, the price of seamoss goes up. The question then becomes: can he survive in business?” Greene asked.

While Antigua and Barbuda exports little to the U.S., Greene noted the broader implications of U.S. trade policy, particularly on imports and tourism. He stressed that if American consumers face economic strain due to tariffs, their ability to travel diminishes—a development that could significantly impact the nation’s primary industry.

“Our tourism sector is extremely vulnerable to these shifts. If the U.S. economy tightens, people cut back on travel. That hits us directly,” Greene said.

He added that the rising cost of U.S. imports—ranging from building materials to medicines—could also affect households and healthcare systems across the Caribbean.

Greene called for urgent regional coordination to diversify trade routes and reduce reliance on American supply chains. He urged both the public and private sectors in Antigua and Barbuda to identify new sources of raw materials and explore regional manufacturing.

“We cannot afford to wait 90 days to see if Washington changes its mind again. This is a moment for decisive action,” Greene said.

The minister also challenged local consumers to rethink their purchasing habits, noting that many continue to favour foreign products even when local or regional alternatives are available.

“People would rather buy imported pineapple in a tin than peel a fresh one grown here. That has to change if we are serious about resilience,” he said.

Greene’s remarks come amid global concerns about economic nationalism and shifting trade alliances, with countries like China, India, and Brazil gaining ground in global supply chains. The minister said Antigua and Barbuda must act swiftly to adapt.

“We are in the middle of a global trade storm. From seamoss to tourism, every sector feels the impact,” Greene concluded.

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