Gov’t Highlights Local Benefits

Gov’t officials renewed their plan to grow Antigua and Barbuda’s medicinal cannabis sector yesterday. Moreover, they stressed that local people must gain most of the benefits. The message was clear. The gov’t wants ordinary citizens to succeed, not only large investors.

Attorney General Sir Steadroy Benjamin opened the meeting with a strong call for fairness. He said the gov’t will guide the industry so residents get real chances to earn and build wealth. In addition, he noted that older industries often shut out local communities. However, he promised that this will not happen again.

Gov’t Supports New Licences

Benjamin urged people to “make certain that your share of the pie is big.” He also asked them to use their gains to support families and neighbourhoods.

During the event, Crown Counsel Jeniece St. Romain shared remarks from MCA Chairman Ambassador Daven Joseph. She said the Authority is studying new licence types. For example, micro-cultivation, wellness tourism, and community cooperative licences may widen access for small growers.

Earlier this year, the gov’t launched a collaborative licence. It also removed research and development fees for one year. This step aims to help local innovators.

Gov’t Stresses Culture and Agriculture

Benjamin highlighted the country’s sacramental cannabis framework. He said it shows respect for culture and spiritual practice.

He also pointed to strong farming conditions. The warm climate and good soil give growers an advantage. Therefore, the gov’t is reviewing patent rules to protect local strains and methods. This effort should give long-time farmers a fair return.

Gov’t Focuses on Safety

Public health remained a top concern. Benjamin warned that youth misuse is rising. As a result, the gov’t will strengthen enforcement to protect young people.

St. Romain added that the MCA will support safe use and fair industry growth. Since 2018, the gov’t has improved standards, increased monitoring, and expanded regional work.

Gov’t Clarifies Industry Boundaries

The dialogue also explained the difference between sacramental, medicinal, and unregulated use. Additionally, officials said the gov’t will protect Rastafari rights.

Professor Rosemarie Belle Antoine delivered the keynote. Finally, Benjamin said her insights will guide the next steps as the gov’t builds a safe, steady, and inclusive industry.

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