Minimum Wage to Rise to $11.50 as Government Moves to Ease Cost of Living Pressures

Published
Minimum Wage to Rise to $11.50 as Government Moves to Ease Cost of Living Pressures
Minimum Wage to Rise to $11.50 as Government Moves to Ease Cost of Living Pressures
Cabinet Meeting

The Cabinet of Antigua and Barbuda has approved an increase in the national minimum wage from $9.00 to $11.50 per hour, with the new rate set to take effect on April 1, 2026.

The decision follows recent consultations with the National Minimum Wage Committee and forms part of a broader strategy to improve income security for low-wage earners across the country. Officials say the adjustment is also a step toward achieving the government’s previously announced target of $13.00 per hour, with further increases expected to be rolled out in phases.

Cabinet indicated that the wage hike is one of several measures aimed at addressing the rising cost of living and ensuring a more equitable distribution of economic gains among citizens.

The move comes amid continued global economic uncertainty, including escalating fuel and food prices, which have had a disproportionate impact on small island developing states such as Antigua and Barbuda.

Against this backdrop, the Gaston Browne administration says it is taking proactive action to shield households and workers from external economic shocks, while advancing policies focused on resilience, social protection, and sustainable growth.

The government reaffirmed its commitment to implementing additional measures where necessary to support citizens and maintain economic stability.

This story was first published by Antigua News on : antigua.news/2026/03/19/minimum-wage-to-rise-to-11-50-as-government-moves-to-ease-cost-of-living-pressures. © 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.

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Comments (11)

  • Kimberly March 19, 2026, 10:16 AM

    Just imagine. We never knew our minumum wage was so low. Shameful
    Reply
  • Anonymous March 19, 2026, 10:20 AM

    and it still low why no go to the thirteen dollars straight away
    Reply
  • Welcome March 19, 2026, 12:26 PM

    We ready for elections. But we welcome the move
    Reply
  • Juju Bee March 19, 2026, 1:48 PM

    Any increase is better than what it use to be
    Reply
  • Thanks March 19, 2026, 7:21 PM

    we thought it’s 13.00 the price of food and gas thirteen is fair.
    Reply
  • Informed citizen March 19, 2026, 9:03 PM

    11.50?? that alone. no news here
    Reply
  • Wilfread March 19, 2026, 10:01 PM

    It should at least be $16 dollars. Things went up so high that cannot make much of a difference
    Reply
  • Wolly March 20, 2026, 4:46 PM

    $11.50 is a start, but things too expensive still… rent, food, everything gone up
    Reply
  • Tromos March 20, 2026, 6:58 PM

    At least dem trying… can’t say they doing nothing
    Reply
  • Trick or treat March 20, 2026, 7:54 PM

    Look for the tax increase to counter that shortly. Whether it be social, education, medical benefit or something new all together.
    Reply
    • Queen Charlotte March 22, 2026, 7:41 AM

      Long overdue! People been struggling for too long
      Reply

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