Antigua and Barbuda’s main seaport has recorded its strongest performance ever, driven by rising imports and regional shipping.

Senator Mary Claire Hurst, chair of the Antigua and Barbuda Port Authority, shared the update during the 2026 Budget Debate. She said container traffic has steadily increased over the past three years.

“In 2023, we handled about 19,000 TEUs. In 2024, it rose to nearly 21,000. This year, we are above 23,000,” Hurst said, highlighting a year-to-date growth of roughly nine percent.

She explained that the surge reflects growing economic activity, particularly in construction and infrastructure projects. Cement imports jumped from about 65,796 tonnes in 2024 to over 80,000 tonnes in 2025. Aggregate, sand, and stone imports increased by more than 150 percent.

Moreover, vehicle imports rose sharply over the past several years, indicating higher consumer demand and business activity.

Hurst attributed the growth to major national projects, including the Booby Alley Housing Project, airport runway improvements, cruise port upgrades, and hotel developments.

“The economic activity starts right here at the port,” she said, stressing its importance to national development.

She also highlighted Antigua’s expanding role as a regional transshipment hub. Goods are increasingly routed through St. John’s Harbour for delivery to neighbouring territories such as St. Kitts and Nevis, Montserrat, Dominica, St. Lucia, St. Vincent, and Barbados.

“This shows the port’s growing regional importance,” Hurst added.

According to Hurst, the port is now central to Antigua and Barbuda’s trade, construction, and tourism-driven economy. Its performance positions the country as a key logistics gateway within the Eastern Caribbean.

The rising volumes demonstrate the port’s efficiency and capacity to support economic growth. Additionally, they reflect strong business confidence and investor interest in the country.

Officials expect the positive trend to continue as major projects progress. Hurst said ongoing upgrades and improvements will further enhance the port’s capabilities.

Ultimately, the port’s record performance underscores Antigua and Barbuda’s strategic importance in regional trade, while supporting domestic development and tourism expansion.

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