Antigua and Barbuda have agreed with Guyana on a new food import plan aimed at reducing the cost of living. The initiative focuses on securing more affordable fruits, vegetables, and other essential produce directly from Guyana. Director General of Communications Maurice Merchant said the Cabinet has instructed Agriculture Minister Anthony Smith Jr. to coordinate with his Guyanese counterpart to finalize the arrangement. This agreement follows discussions between Prime Minister Gaston Browne and President Irfaan Ali at the COP30 conference in Belize, emphasizing regional cooperation to improve food security.

The goal is to provide residents with lower prices on fresh produce and other food items. Merchant explained that once the plan is implemented, consumers should notice further reductions in daily food costs. The initiative builds on earlier Cabinet decisions to reduce the Common External Tariff (CET) on key food imports, including fresh produce, canned proteins, and infant food. By combining tariff cuts with a regional supply source, the government aims to reduce dependence on distant suppliers and stabilize local prices despite global market fluctuations.

Currently, nearly 90 percent of Antigua and Barbuda’s imported foods come from North America, a reliance that leaves prices vulnerable to global market changes. The agreement with Guyana diversifies supply sources within CARICOM, providing a more reliable and cost-effective option for essential goods. Government officials highlighted that the main objective is to ensure consumers directly benefit from lower import costs while supporting regional trade. As this plan moves forward, Antigua and Barbuda anticipates more accessible, affordable food and stronger national food security.

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