Browne Defends CIP, Says Programme Generated Over $1.4 Billion for Antigua and Barbuda

Prime Minister Gaston Browne has mounted a strong defence of the Citizenship by Investment Programme (CIP), revealing that it has generated more than EC$1.4 billion in non-tax revenue for Antigua and Barbuda over the past decade.

Speaking at the launch of the ABLP’s 2026 manifesto at the American University of Antigua on Monday, Browne dismissed calls for the programme to be scrapped, warning that such a move would create a major hole in government finances.

“Since its establishment, the programme has generated more than $1.4 billion in non-tax revenues for the people of Antigua and Barbuda. Let me repeat—$1.4 billion in 11 years,” Browne declared.

He emphasized that the funds have played a critical role in financing key national priorities, including pensions, healthcare, education, infrastructure, and public safety.

“It is real, measurable income. It has helped to finance pensions, healthcare, education, scholarships, public safety, water, roads and housing,” he said.

The Prime Minister also linked the programme directly to the government’s ability to maintain its no personal income tax policy.
“It has done so while helping to spare our people the burden of personal income tax and other heavier taxation. That is the reality,” Browne added.

He challenged critics of the CIP to present clear alternatives.

“Those who call for the programme to be abolished have a duty to tell the country what they will do instead. Tell us where this compensatory revenue will come from,” he said.

Browne warned that eliminating the programme without a replacement would force difficult choices.

“What taxes would they impose? What services would they cut? What development would they postpone?” he asked.

He also pointed to employment tied to the programme, noting that thousands of jobs—both direct and indirect—depend on CIP-related investments and projects.

“Are you saying that all of the workers involved in CIP-supported projects should be sent home?” he questioned.

Making his administration’s position clear, Browne said there will be no rollback under his leadership.

“The Antigua and Barbuda Labour Party administration will not be reckless in dismantling a programme that has supported the people of this country and strengthened the national economy. It will not happen under my leadership,” he stated.

Instead, he pledged to strengthen and regulate the programme.

“We will continue to defend it, we will continue to strengthen it, and we will continue to regulate it properly in the national interest,” Browne said.

The CIP remains one of the most significant pillars of the country’s economic model, particularly in funding large-scale infrastructure projects without increasing taxation.