ST. JOHN’S, Antigua, Mar 20, CMC – The Antigua and Barbuda government says it has agreed to increase the national minimum wage from nine to EC$11.50 (One EC dollar=US$0.37 cents) to $11.50 per hour, effective April 1, this year as part of a series of measures aimed at easing the cost of living and strengthening the economic well-being of citizens.
A statement issued following the weekly Cabinet meeting noted also that the previously announced reduction of the Antigua and Barbuda Sales Tax (ABST) to zero per cent on food items and school supplies will be implemented over April 10–11, 2026, the weekend preceding the reopening of schools following the Easter break.
According to the statement, the series of measures come against the backdrop of ongoing global geopolitical developments, including rising fuel and food prices, which continue to impact small island developing states (SIDS).
Regarding the increase in minimum wages, Cabinet said that it took the decision following recent consultations with the National Minimum Wage Committee, and that the adjustment forms part of a phased approach toward the previously announced target of EC$13.00 per hour, with additional increases to be implemented over time.
“The measure is designed to improve income security for low-wage earners and ensure a fairer distribution of economic gains.”
Cabinet also announced an interim salary increase of five per cent for public servants effective end of March 2026.
“This adjustment is intended to provide immediate relief while negotiations on a broader compensation package continue,” the statement said, adding that “Cabinet emphasized that this increase does not indicate the final total of the increase and is subject to ongoing negotiations, with the expectation that a comprehensive agreement will be reached in due course.
”Cabinet reiterated that these measures reflect the government’s continued commitment to protecting citizens from global economic shocks while advancing national development goals. Antigua and Barbuda’s economic policies in recent years have focused on resilience, social protection, and sustainable growth, particularly in response to external challenges affecting small economies.
”The government will continue to monitor global developments and stands ready to implement additional measures where necessary to safeguard the well-being of the people of Antigua and Barbuda,” it added.
Government also announced a new initiative regarding the sale of Crown lands.
It said under this initiative, individuals who have occupied Crown lands for more than 10 years will be offered the opportunity to purchase up to one-quarter acre of land at a concessional rate of EC$1.00 per square foot.
”Cabinet noted that this policy forms part of the government’s broader efforts to promote home ownership, security of tenure, and economic empowerment among citizens. By providing long-term occupants with the ability to formalize ownership of the lands they have developed and maintained, the government aims to improve living conditions and create greater opportunities for wealth creation.”
The Gaston Browne administration said that the policy also seeks to regularise informal settlements in a structured manner, ensuring that residents can gain legal title while enabling the State to implement proper planning, infrastructure development, and community enhancement initiatives.
Cabinet said that the “initiative reflects the administration’s continued commitment to uplifting citizens and expanding access to land ownership, particularly for those who have demonstrated long-standing ties to the lands they occupy”.
CMC/hg/ir/2026