The Cabinet of Antigua and Barbuda used its June 17 meeting to outline several major initiatives focused on education, infrastructure, healthcare, agriculture and economic development.

A key decision was the expansion of support for higher education. Cabinet confirmed that eligible students pursuing their first undergraduate degree at The University of the West Indies (UWI) Five Islands Campus will receive free tuition. The Government also approved assistance of up to 50 percent of tuition costs for students enrolled in law programmes at the campus. Officials said the policy aims to remove financial barriers and help develop a skilled workforce for the country’s future.

Cabinet also discussed plans to expand the Windfall Tax. The proposal would apply the tax to all businesses earning annual profits of EC$1 million or more. The Government said revenue generated could help support continued investment in higher education and national development programmes.

In tourism and development, Cabinet announced that negotiations with Sandals Resorts International regarding outstanding tax obligations have been settled. The agreement is valued at EC$6.5 million. Of that amount, EC$5 million will go toward the Renaissance Park Development at Fort James. Plans for the project include a marina, amphitheatre, boutique accommodations and retail spaces.

Cabinet also received updates on national infrastructure. Water production currently stands at about 11 million imperial gallons per day, with additional increases expected as new facilities come online. Officials also reported progress on telecommunications upgrades and the subsea cable project designed to strengthen communications resilience.

Healthcare remained another priority. Cabinet reported significant progress on Cancer Centre Antigua. The facility is expected to provide advanced cancer treatment services locally and could begin operations in early fall. Recruitment of key medical personnel is already underway.

Cabinet also welcomed updates on agricultural projects, including sweet potato production, disaster preparedness initiatives and efforts to strengthen food security. Officials reaffirmed their commitment to modernizing agriculture and improving climate resilience across Antigua and Barbuda.