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Club Med, TUI Eye Jolly Beach Resort as PM Vows to Protect Room Stock
Prime Minister Gaston Browne has confirmed that Club Med and TUI are among entities interested in acquiring Jolly Beach Resort, while stressing that the government will not accept any deal that significantly reduces the property's room inventory. The resort currently generates approximately US$4 million in annual profits and welcomes around 75,000 visitors each year.
Jolly Beach Resort Set for $13.5M Upgrade, Including 500-Seat Conference Centre
Prime Minister Gaston Browne has announced a $13.5 million investment in upgrades to Jolly Beach Resort, including new air-conditioning, improved internet connectivity, and a 500-seat conference facility expected to be completed within months. The government-owned resort, managed by Elite Island Resorts, currently generates around $4 million in annual profit and draws approximately 75,000 visitors per year.
Government Plans Concrete Pier Rebuild at Keeling Point Fisheries Site
The government has announced plans to replace the aging pier at Keeling Point with a new reinforced concrete structure, as part of broader efforts to upgrade fisheries infrastructure in Antigua and Barbuda. The visit also addressed safety concerns following a recent shark attack involving a local fisherman.
Caribbean Banking Access Under Threat as Stablecoins and De-Risking Reshape the Financial Landscape
A new commentary in the Caribbean Banking Series warns that correspondent banking access across the Caribbean is thinning under the weight of compliance costs and de-risking, even as new U.S. stablecoin regulations and a US$3 trillion projected stablecoin market by 2030 reshape the global financial landscape. The analysis argues that securing reliable banking access is now an enabling condition of the region's most ambitious growth strategies.
Government Plans Housing and Marina Development at Perry Bay
The Antiguan government has announced plans to survey 13 acres at Perry Bay for a mixed-use development featuring condominium housing, a marina, and other amenities. The project is expected to form the next major phase of the government's broader national housing programme.
Barbados Tapped to Host Landmark 45th Caribbean Travel Marketplace in 2027
Barbados has been named the host destination for the 2027 Caribbean Travel Marketplace, which will mark the event's landmark 45th edition. The announcement was made during this year's gathering held in Antigua and Barbuda.
Antigua and Barbuda Hotels Nominated for 2026 World Travel Awards
Several Antigua and Barbuda hotels and resorts have been nominated for the 2026 World Travel Awards, competing across categories including luxury accommodation, sustainable tourism and all-inclusive offerings. Public voting is open until 28 August.
Hadeed Family Honours Sir Aziz's Legacy of Business, Education and Service
The Hadeed family has paid tribute to Sir Aziz Fares Hadeed, KCMG, CBE, who passed away on 23 May 2026 at the age of 79. Sir Aziz was widely regarded as one of Antigua and Barbuda's most influential businessmen, philanthropists and champions of higher education.
Antigua and Barbuda Courts Global MICE Market at FIEXPO Latin America
Antigua and Barbuda is showcasing its growing MICE credentials at FIEXPO Latin America 2026 in Costa Rica, following its recognition as the Caribbean's Leading Meetings & Conference Destination 2025 at the World Travel Awards. Chief Marketing Officer Charmaine Spencer is representing the destination at the high-profile industry event.
Caribbean's Largest Carnival Stage Takes Shape at ARG Ahead of 2026 Festival
Construction of what organisers describe as the Caribbean's largest stage is now underway at the Antigua Recreation Grounds, marking a major step in preparations for Antigua Carnival 2026. The structure, being assembled by Sound 2000 of St. Maarten alongside local technicians, will anchor the newly developed Carnival City entertainment hub.
Flow Joins Republic Bank CPL as Official Partner, Boosting Regional Connectivity
The Republic Bank Caribbean Premier League has named Flow, the Caribbean's leading telecommunications provider, as an official partner for the upcoming tournament. The partnership aims to enhance fan access, engagement, and digital connectivity across the region.
Elon Musk Becomes World's First Trillionaire as SpaceX Goes Public
Elon Musk has become the world's first trillionaire after SpaceX went public Friday, with shares trading above $150 in what is the largest IPO in history, valuing the company at $2 trillion.
Facebook and Instagram Down for Millions of Users Worldwide
Millions of Facebook and Instagram users worldwide experienced widespread outages on Friday, with nearly 5,000 disruption reports logged within 24 hours. Meta had not publicly commented on the issue at the time of publication.
Two Antigua Resorts Publicly Welcome LGBTQ+ Travelers in Social Media Campaign
Pineapple Beach Club Antigua and The Verandah Resort and Spa have launched nearly identical social media campaigns affirming that LGBTQ+ travelers are welcome at their properties. The advertisements, which feature same-sex couples and messages of inclusion, have sparked online discussion both locally and regionally.
Sandals Eyes Major Antigua Expansion With 100 Rooms and Overwater Bungalows
Sandals Resorts International is planning to add approximately 100 rooms to its Antigua property, including 16 overwater bungalows, as disclosed during Wednesday's Cabinet meeting. The expansion is expected to boost the country's luxury tourism market and create new employment opportunities.
Japan Eyes Technical Partnership to Turn Antigua's Sargassum Into Commercial Products
Japan has signaled its readiness to send a technical team to Antigua and Barbuda to explore converting sargassum seaweed into commercial products, following talks with Agriculture Minister Anthony Smith Jr. during his recent visit to Japan. The initiative could turn a long-standing coastal environmental problem into an economic opportunity for the twin-island nation.
CARICOM Moves to Standardise EV Charging Infrastructure Across the Region
The CARICOM Secretariat hosted a webinar to advance the standardisation and harmonisation of EV charging infrastructure across Member States. Key challenges identified include small technical workforces, limited budgets, and the need for locally relevant, technology-neutral standards.
WIOC Mourns Death of Businessman Lawrence 'Larry' Gonsalves
The West Indies Oil Company Ltd. has paid tribute to businessman Lawrence "Larry" Gonsalves following his passing, describing him as a respected community figure, mentor, and longtime operator in the fuel retail sector.
Antigua and Barbuda Cuts 2026 GDP Growth Forecast to 4% Amid Global Pressures
Antigua and Barbuda has lowered its 2026 GDP growth forecast to four percent, down from six percent, as global fuel and food price pressures stemming from Middle East tensions dampen economic expectations. Prime Minister Gaston Browne described the revised rate as still healthy and among the stronger performances projected in the Caribbean.
Antigua and Barbuda to Host Regional Services Sector Training Programme in 2026
Antigua and Barbuda will host a regional OECS Specialised Services Sector Training Programme from June 29 to July 2, 2026, aimed at strengthening the trade policy and negotiation skills of public and private sector stakeholders. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Trade and Immigration is inviting interested parties to register for the hybrid training initiative.