Prime Minister Browne Announces Indefinite Suspension of CET on Basic Goods to Further Ease Cost of Living

Prime Minister the Hon. Gaston Browne has announced that his administration will maintain the suspension of the Common External Tariff on selected basic goods indefinitely, reinforcing the Government’s continued commitment to reducing the cost of living and protecting households across Antigua and Barbuda.

The announcement was made during the Get to Know Your Candidates interview, where it was revealed that the Government intends to continue the suspension of the CET, a measure which represents approximately a 40 percent reduction on the price of certain basic goods.

Prime Minister Browne made it clear that his administration’s priority remains the welfare of the people, stating that the measure will continue “with or without the permission of CARICOM, our people’s interest comes first and foremost.”

The Government had previously approved a one-year suspension of the Common External Tariff on essential food items, following the decision of the 60th Meeting of the Council for Trade and Economic Development. That measure allowed for a zero rate of duty on selected staples from July 1, 2025, to June 30, 2026, as part of a regional response to rising prices and inflationary pressures across the Caribbean.

Prime Minister Browne’s announcement now confirms that Antigua and Barbuda will not allow this important relief measure to simply expire while families continue to face the impact of high global food prices.

The Antigua and Barbuda Labour Party welcomes the announcement as another clear demonstration of the Browne administration’s people-first approach to governance.

“This is decisive leadership at work,” the ABLP stated. “At a time when families continue to manage rising prices, the Prime Minister has made it clear that his Government will continue to place the needs of the people above all else.”

The ABLP noted that the policy reflects the administration’s wider record of using practical, targeted measures to protect citizens, strengthen household purchasing power, and preserve economic stability.

The Antigua and Barbuda Labour Party remains confident that this measure will bring continued relief to households and support the broader national effort to maintain stability, affordability, and progress.