WATCH: WIOC CEO Warns of Higher Fuel Costs as Global Oil Prices Surge

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WATCH: WIOC CEO Warns of Higher Fuel Costs as Global Oil Prices Surge
Gregory Georges, CEO of West Indies Oil Company

Chief Executive Officer of the West Indies Oil Company (WIOC), Gregory Georges, says Antigua and Barbuda is already feeling the effects of rising global oil prices, confirming to Antigua.news that a recent fuel shipment arrived at significantly higher costs.

According to Georges, the sharpest increases have been recorded in diesel and jet fuel, reflecting the impact of the latest surge in the international energy market.

He spoke to Journalist Shermain Bique Charles on Monday.

The development comes as Brent crude jumped more than 9 per cent on Friday to surpass US$93 per barrel, marking the highest level since the autumn of 2023 and sparking concern about potential economic fallout for import-dependent countries like Antigua and Barbuda.

The spike in oil prices follows a stark warning from Qatar’s Energy Minister, Saad Sherida Al-Kaabi, who told the Financial Times that the escalating conflict in the Middle East could force Gulf oil and gas exporters to halt production within days.

Al-Kaabi cautioned that disruptions to key shipping routes and energy supplies could pose a systemic threat to the global economy.

For Antigua and Barbuda, which relies heavily on imported petroleum products for electricity generation, transportation and aviation, sustained increases in global oil prices could place additional pressure on fuel costs, electricity rates and the overall cost of living.

This story was first published by Antigua News on : antigua.news/2026/03/09/watch-wioc-ceo-warns-of-higher-fuel-costs-as-global-oil-prices-surge. © 2026 Antigua News. Republication without permission is not allowed.

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Shermain Bique-Charles

About the author

Shermain Bique-Charles is an accomplished journalist with over 24 years of dynamic experience in the industry. Renowned for her exceptional storytelling and investigative skills, she has garnered numerous awards that highlight her commitment to journalistic integrity and excellence. Her work not only informs but also inspires, making her a respected voice in the field.

Read our editorial standards and corrections policy. Spotted an error? Contact the newsroom.

Comments (7)

  • Fried Chicken March 9, 2026, 8:15 PM

    I think we knew this was coming. Hold tight Antigua. The storm is far from being over
    Reply
  • Apex Jones March 9, 2026, 8:36 PM

    As expected. Even after explaining why the prices will go up some people will talk find a way to blame Gaston.
    Let’s just brace ourselves
    Reply
  • Tessa March 10, 2026, 6:22 AM

    Boy Antigua can’t catch a break eh. Every time oil price jump overseas we feeling it right here at the pump.
    Reply
  • Trevor March 10, 2026, 6:23 AM

    Diesel and jet fuel going up again? That mean everything else going follow food, bus fare, electricity.
    Reply
  • Rhea March 10, 2026, 6:24 AM

    Antigua small and dependent so once global price move we in trouble. Government really need to push more renewable energy.
    Reply
  • ChaChaCha March 10, 2026, 11:15 AM

    We expect prices to increase based on whats happening on the international market. We dont expect anyone to come here and blame gaston browne.
    Reply
  • GS March 11, 2026, 3:23 AM

    The blame still rest in the Government. Why? because when prices fell internationally, ours always remained at the last elevated price adjustment. Fuel prices in Antigua and Barbuda only goes in an upward direction.
    Reply

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