Minister Fernandez Highlights Antigua and Barbuda’s Strategic Miami Connection at Interamerican Conference

Minister of Tourism, Civil Aviation, Transportation and Investment, the Honourable H. Charles Fernandez, has highlighted the critical importance of Miami to Antigua and Barbuda’s tourism, trade, aviation and maritime sectors while participating in the 28th InterAmerican Conference of Mayors and Local Authorities in Miami.

Minister Fernandez was featured on the high-level panel, “Miami as the Gateway to the Americas - Ports & Airports: Integrated Hubs of the Future,” which explored the interconnected role of airports and seaports in facilitating trade, tourism, investment and economic development.

During his intervention, Minister Fernandez stressed that Antigua and Barbuda’s economy is profoundly connected to Miami, with South Florida serving as an important gateway for the movement of people, goods and services. “Miami is not simply another destination for Antigua and Barbuda. It is a critical gateway through which a significant portion of our trade, tourism and connectivity flows,” Minister Fernandez said.

Against this backdrop, the Minister outlined Antigua and Barbuda’s significant investments in strengthening its own gateway infrastructure, including continued development at V.C. Bird International Airport, the recent runway rehabilitation programme and the approximately US$100 million redevelopment of the St. John’s Deep Water Harbour.

He also highlighted the Government’s strategic partnership with Global Ports Holding in transforming Antigua’s cruise port and expanding opportunities within the country’s growing cruise tourism sector.

Minister Fernandez stressed, however, that infrastructure development must be matched by investment in human capital, noting continued training and professional development across the aviation, maritime and tourism sectors, as well as Antigua and Barbuda’s commitment to accessible education and the establishment of the University of the West Indies Five Islands Campus.

“As a Small Island Developing State, partnerships are essential to our progress. But equally important is ensuring that we continue to invest in our own people so that Antiguans and Barbudans are equipped not simply to participate in this growth, but to lead it,” he stated.

Minister Fernandez is also accompanied by Director of Investments and Ambassador to the UAE, H.E. Gilbert Boustany. Over the two-day conference, both officials will engage with government representatives, trade officials, port and aviation stakeholders, and industry experts to explore opportunities for increased cooperation, investment and connectivity.

He has already held discussions with H.E. Kevin Marino Cabrera, United States Ambassador to Panama, and Gerard Philippeaux, Executive Director of the Miami-Dade County International Trade Consortium, with further engagements expected as the conference continues through September 30.