Concerns Rise in Antigua and Barbuda Over Impact of Trump’s Tariff Announcements

Officials from both the public and private sectors in Antigua and Barbuda are increasingly worried about the Trump Administration’s recent tariff announcements, which are affecting nearly all countries globally at varying rates. 

Despite a 90-day pause on some tariffs, a 10-percent tariff on goods from most nations, including Antigua and Barbuda, remains in force. This has prompted alarm among business leaders and regional trade experts who recently gathered at the American University of Antigua.

Hosted by Mario Colindres, President of the Antigua and Barbuda Chamber of Commerce, the forum focused on the concerning rise in shipping costs and potential economic disruptions caused by international sanctions that threaten supply chains across Latin America and the Caribbean. 

Representatives from customs, consumer affairs, the shipping industry, and diplomatic sectors engaged in discussions about the mounting pressures on small island nations such as Antigua and Barbuda.

The Executive Director of the Chamber of Commerce, Martin Cave, emphasized the fallout from unilateral sanctions imposed by the United States and urged for a reevaluation of trade relationships to enhance resilience.

During the discussions, participants highlighted various issues including escalating freight costs, new carbon taxes imposed by the International Maritime Organization (IMO), and risks tied to sourcing goods from unfamiliar markets.

David Martin, Deputy Comptroller of Operations at Customs, warned that while tariff rates may remain unchanged, shipping companies are likely to raise their prices, ultimately transferring these increased costs to consumers.

Tamara Lowe-James, Island Manager for Tropical Shipping, noted that even though customs tariffs are stable, heightened production costs for shipping companies are contributing to the rise in shipping fees.

Port Manager Darwin Telemaque offered a grim outlook, stating that ports must become as vital as power grids and data centers. He called for a comprehensive review of port efficiency and suggested that finding ways to alleviate costs is essential for protecting consumers.

Orrin Steele from the Prices and Consumer Affairs Division warned that the cumulative effects of sanctions could lead to skyrocketing prices for essential goods. He expressed uncertainty about what the next six months would bring for the small island nation, which lacks the power to mitigate these issues effectively.

Attendees urged for Antigua and Barbuda to consider becoming a regional logistics hub and recommended that the government seek tariff exemptions from CARICOM for essential goods.

Telemaque expressed concern that traditional allies are less inclined to support these efforts, suggesting Caribbean nations need to focus on internal solutions.