PM Browne Urges Locals to Invest in Growing Hospitality Sector

PM Browne Urges Locals to Invest in Growing Hospitality Sector

St John’s, Antigua – Prime Minister Gaston Browne is calling on Antigua and Barbuda’s middle and upper class to take a more active role in national development by investing in the country’s expanding hospitality industry.

Speaking at a recent Chamber of Commerce event, Browne said while the government has successfully attracted substantial foreign investment, local ownership remains limited.

“We’re creating beautiful waterfront and beach properties,” he said, inviting domestic investors to take advantage of upcoming developments at Pensioners Beach, Morris Bay, and Shell Beach.

He criticised the reluctance of some locals—particularly Black Antiguans and Barbudans—to invest, noting that many prefer to “sit in [their] big bank accounts” and then complain when foreigners act instead. He rejected claims of bias in government concessions, stating they are based on investment size, not nationality or race.

To encourage greater local participation, the government will offer incentives such as duty-free concessions on building materials and furnishings. Interested individuals can register through the National Housing office.

“We will try and keep the price of land down,” he said, while clarifying that prices will reflect their prime locations and not be sold at rural rates.

Browne also highlighted new infrastructure projects, including a renewable energy plant in Barbuda, a planned airport runway expansion to accommodate American Airlines jets, and the country’s strong post-pandemic economic performance. Since 2014, GDP has grown from $3.8 billion to $6 billion, with annual growth averaging over 6% since COVID-19.

He concluded with a direct appeal: “If you fail to act, you’re discriminating against yourselves.”

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