The government says Antigua and Barbuda is on track to welcome more than 500,000 stay-over visitors this year as officials project continued growth in the country’s tourism sector.
The forecast was announced Tuesday during the 2026 Throne Speech delivered by Governor-General Sir Rodney Williams at the ceremonial opening of Parliament.
According to the speech, tourism continues to dominate the national economy, accounting for more than 60% of Antigua and Barbuda’s gross domestic product.
“Today, more than 60% of the gross domestic product of Antigua and Barbuda is generated by tourism,” Sir Rodney said.
The Governor-General said the government expects both cruise and stay-over arrivals to remain strong throughout 2026.
“More than 1,000,000 cruise passengers are likely to arrive during this season, and more than 500,000 overnight arrivals will fly into Antigua and Barbuda in this calendar year,” the speech stated.
The Throne Speech credited Tourism Minister Charles Fernandez and his ministry team with helping to expand the country’s tourism product and visitor offerings.
“Therefore, my Government thanks the competent, intelligent, and affable Honourable Charles Max Fernandez for the superb leadership role he has played,” Sir Rodney said.
The speech also pointed to several major infrastructure projects intended to support continued tourism growth, including repairs and strengthening works on the runway at V.C. Bird International Airport and the opening of a new runway and terminal at Burton-Nibbs International Airport in Barbuda.
Officials additionally highlighted billions of dollars in investment tied to development projects in Barbuda, including new roads, desalination plants, housing developments and a new school.
The government said tourism remains central to Antigua and Barbuda’s economic strategy, describing the industry as “Everybody’s Business.”
The remarks formed part of a broader Throne Speech outlining the administration’s agenda for the new parliamentary term following the Antigua and Barbuda Labour Party’s fourth consecutive election victory on April 30.