Antigua and Barbuda’s Prime Minister Gaston Browne is calling for talks with U.S. officials over recent policy decisions by the Trump administration that he fears could harm Eastern Caribbean economies.
Speaking on the _Browne and Browne_ show, the Prime Minister cited concerns over three key areas: the use of Cuban doctors in regional healthcare, the purchase of Venezuelan petroleum products, and the importation of goods via Chinese-built ships. He warned these measures could have severe economic consequences for small island states.
Browne highlighted the past benefits of Venezuela’s PetroCaribe programme, which provided over $500 million in credit to Antigua and Barbuda, helping the country weather global economic shocks. Though his administration has not pursued similar deals, he urged the U.S. to consider a carve-out for Eastern Caribbean nations.
He also raised alarms over the potential inflationary effects of banning Chinese-built vessels, suggesting shipping costs could rise by as much as $4,000 per container.
Calling for “constructive engagement,” Browne said Caribbean countries have a duty to speak out when external policies threaten their sovereignty and stability.
