Antigua and Barbuda plans to begin exporting bottled sparkling water and paper products in 2026. The move forms part of a wider government strategy to expand manufacturing and reduce reliance on imports.

Trade Minister E.P. Chet Greene announced the plans during the 2026 Budget Debate in Parliament. He said the government is preparing to establish a sparkling water bottling plant designed mainly for export markets. The facility will use glass bottles and is expected to be one of four new manufacturing enterprises coming on stream next year.

During his presentation, Greene clarified that the product would be sparkling water. He explained that the project supports both export growth and import substitution. As a result, the government expects reduced pressure on foreign exchange reserves.

In addition, Greene revealed plans for two paper-based manufacturing operations. Both facilities are expected to have export capacity and strong growth potential. He also announced a proposed beer production factory aimed at expanding local beverage manufacturing and cutting import dependence.

According to the trade minister, the government is intentionally shifting Antigua and Barbuda away from an almost fully import-dependent economy. Instead, the focus is on building economic resilience through manufacturing, exports, and value-added production.

Greene said the export-driven approach will help create jobs and stabilize supply chains. Moreover, it will generate foreign exchange by increasing the range of locally produced goods available to external markets.

Although Greene did not identify specific export destinations, he said the projects align with Antigua and Barbuda’s growing diplomatic and trade relationships. Consequently, local manufacturers will be better positioned to access regional and international markets.

The planned facilities form part of the government’s broader trade and industrial policy for 2026. Overall, the initiatives reflect a long-term strategy to diversify the economy, strengthen production capacity, and support sustainable growth.

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