— A larger toilet paper manufacturing operation is expected to begin production in Antigua and Barbuda in 2027, with plans to export its products, Prime Minister Gaston Browne says.

Browne disclosed the planned investment Saturday on the Browne and Browne Show while discussing increased entrepreneurship and efforts to expand local manufacturing.

He first highlighted a smaller business that has already started producing three-ply toilet paper locally.

“There’s a young lady who just launched a toilet paper business,” Browne said. “We’re going to bring her on the program next week for individuals to be familiar with the product.”

He described it as “a good product” and said it was being manufactured in Antigua and Barbuda.

“It’s a three-ply toilet paper made right here in Antigua and Barbuda,” Browne said.

Larger factory coming in 2027

Browne said another entrepreneur, Solomon Dumit, is developing a substantially larger manufacturing operation.

“Added to that is another factory of a far bigger operation that will be operational sometime next year,” Browne said.

“That will be done by Solomon Dumit, in which he’s also looking to export toilet paper.”

The prime minister did not disclose the amount being invested in the factory, its location, planned production capacity or potential export markets.

Browne presented the development as another indication of increased activity in Antigua and Barbuda’s manufacturing sector.

“So in manufacturing, we’re seeing some improvements,” he said.

Browne urges consumers to buy local

The prime minister also appealed to consumers to support businesses producing goods domestically.

“I want to encourage our people, as products are being produced locally, we must support our own,” Browne said. “We want to encourage you to buy local.”

Browne said interest in entrepreneurship financing has also been increasing.

“Every week we get applications for entrepreneurial funding,” he said. “So I’m very happy with the increase in entrepreneurship.”

During the same discussion, Browne disclosed that Antigua Distillery is developing a brewery and that a new locally produced beer is expected in 2027.

He said the developments were part of broader progress in domestic production.

“I’d say in all sectors we are seeing progress,” Browne said, adding that the government was pleased with the country’s economic direction.

The toilet paper operation would add to efforts to produce more consumer goods domestically while potentially creating an export product if Dumit’s plans materialize.

This article was originally published by Antigua News Room. Read the original article here: New Antigua Toilet Paper Factory Plans to Export, PM Says.