The government of Antigua and Barbuda has established a task force to explore new regional shipping links, as part of efforts to counter the rising cost of goods caused by shifting global trade patterns and new tariffs.

Chief of Staff Lionel Max Hurst told Monday’s post-Cabinet press briefing that Antigua is seeking to strengthen its supply chain connections with the Dominican Republic, as the United States moves to impose higher tariffs on goods imported from China.

Hurst explained that large container ships often unload goods intended for the Caribbean in U.S. ports such as Miami. However, he warned that new tariffs could drive up prices for Caribbean countries that rely heavily on U.S. distribution hubs.

“In order to avoid having to pay more for goods unnecessarily, the Dominican Republic is increasingly serving as an alternative port for shipments from China,” Hurst said. “We are now looking to establish a more direct route to receive goods from Santo Domingo rather than Miami.”

The task force will identify key goods that can be imported more cost-effectively through Dominican ports and examine logistics for regional distribution, particularly to Eastern Caribbean states.

Officials believe the initiative could help stabilise consumer prices and strengthen trade resilience, particularly given Antigua and Barbuda’s heavy reliance on imported goods.

Hurst added that broader regional collaboration is expected, as other CARICOM states also seek alternatives to traditional U.S. shipping routes in response to the evolving global trade environment.

Further updates on the task force’s findings are expected to be presented to Cabinet later this year.