Government Warns Fuel Subsidies May Not Last Amid Rising Global Prices

The government says it may eventually have to pass rising fuel costs on to consumers as global conflicts and supply disruptions continue to drive up international energy prices.

Director General of Communications Maurice Merchant made the disclosure during Thursday’s post-Cabinet briefing while discussing the government’s push to strengthen food security and economic resilience through agriculture.

Merchant said Antigua and Barbuda has so far absorbed increasing fuel costs in an effort to shield residents from sharp price hikes, but warned that the situation may not be sustainable indefinitely.

“Government continues at this time to assume all of the costs, the increase in cost where fuel is concerned,” Merchant said.

“However, there will come a time when it will have to pass on some of these costs to consumers to ensure that there is some level of stability established within the fuel sector,” he added.

Merchant pointed to growing instability in global markets linked to wars and international conflicts, which he said are already affecting trade routes, transportation and food supplies worldwide.

He noted that international airline operators are also feeling the pressure from rising fuel prices, citing reports that jet fuel costs have sharply increased in recent months.

Merchant said the government is simultaneously intensifying efforts to improve food self-sufficiency through expanded agricultural training and investment, warning that small developing states like Antigua and Barbuda could face growing economic pressure if global instability continues.