AGP Executive Report
Last update: 27 minutes agoABST Relief: Antigua and Barbuda will cut Sales Tax to zero on qualifying food items and back-to-school supplies on Aug. 28–29, easing costs for families ahead of the school reopening. Public Finance & Retail: Government says it will pay public servants ahead of the ABST-free shopping weekend, aiming to boost household spending during the tax relief period. US Visa Shock (Antigua affected): A US judge struck down a Trump administration suspension of immigrant visas for nationals from 75 countries, including Antigua and Barbuda, though other visa restrictions and bond rules remain in place. Tourism & Heritage: Cabinet says Carnival 2027 planning is underway for “Legendary 70,” with early stakeholder engagement and wider global marketing expected to lift tourism and creative-sector activity. Regional Growth Watch: ECLAC projects Caribbean growth at 5.6% in 2026, but only 1.1% without Guyana—highlighting how uneven regional economic momentum is. Child Safety Focus: A National Child Protection Town Hall Meeting is set for Aug. 25 at the John E. St. Luce Finance and Conference Centre, bringing together health, police, education and legal voices. Security Planning: Cabinet is considering a drone-based national security network to strengthen surveillance and emergency response, with no final purchase decision yet.
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