ST JOHN’S, Antigua – Prime Minister Gaston Browne says Antigua and Barbuda has recorded one of its strongest fiscal performances in modern history, with a primary surplus of EC$254.9 million (One EC dollar=US$0.37 cents) and an overall surplus of $116.3 million.
He made the revelation as he presented the 2026 national budget on Thursday.
Browne said the surpluses reflect a decisive turnaround from the deficits inherited 11 years ago and mark a period of disciplined fiscal management, steady economic expansion and increased revenue flows across key sectors.
According to the Ministry of Finance, the government’s debt-to-GDP ratio now stands at 61.4 percent — down from what Browne said was an effective level of 120 percent when his administration took office.
The budget, themed “People-Centered Growth and Development,” outlines new commitments for education, healthcare, housing and infrastructure, all of which Browne said will be underpinned by the country’s healthier fiscal position.
The Prime Minister said the improved fiscal outlook positions the country to advance major public investments, strengthen social programmes and protect vulnerable households.
He noted that the surpluses come amid sustained economic growth, a rebound in tourism, increased construction activity and higher import volumes.
Government officials say stronger tax compliance and post-pandemic recovery trends have also supported revenue performance.
He added that the country “no longer resembles the fragile, post-crisis economy of a decade ago,” saying job creation, increased visitor spending and a construction boom have reshaped the economic landscape. He pointed to record tourism arrivals, expanding port activity and higher domestic consumption as indicators of strong underlying demand.
The Prime Minister said the fiscal outlook places the country in a better position to expand social programmes, invest in infrastructure and accelerate resilience-building projects.
He added that the government’s policy mix — from eliminating personal income tax to scaling up capital investments — helped stabilize and then grow the economy despite global turbulence.
