Prime Minister Gaston Browne says revitalising St. John’s is essential to ensuring Antigua and Barbuda fully benefits from rapid tourism and economic growth.

Addressing property owners at a St. John’s redevelopment consultation on Wednesday evening, Browne said the country’s economy has grown from approximately US$3.6 billion to US$6 billion over the past decade, with projections reaching US$7 billion within two years.

St John’s consultation at John E. St. Luce Conference Center (photo by Office of the Prime Minister)

He noted that per capita income now stands at approximately US$22,000, driven largely by strong growth in cruise and stay-over tourism. This year alone, Antigua and Barbuda is expected to receive about one million cruise passengers — nearly double the figures from a decade ago.

“With the central business district located right next to the cruise piers, we must enhance St. John’s — not only for tourists, but for locals as well,” Browne said.

The Prime Minister projected that cruise arrivals could reach up to two million annually within five years as port infrastructure continues to expand, including the newly completed fifth berth and upland development.

He argued that improving St. John’s would allow businesses and property owners to benefit from higher rents, increased foot traffic, and new opportunities such as short-term Airbnb-style accommodation.

“Investing in your building is an investment in your future,” Browne told property owners.