Prime Minister Browne Calls for Bold Regional Action to Transform ECCU Economies at ECCB Monetary Council Meeting

Prime Minister of Antigua and Barbuda, the Rt. Hon. Gaston Browne, has called for a new era of bold regional action to transform the economies of the Eastern Caribbean Currency Union (ECCU), urging Member States to convert decades of monetary stability into greater prosperity, expanded ownership opportunities and sustainable wealth creation for the people of the Eastern Caribbean.

Prime Minister Browne delivered the address as he presented his report at the Meeting of the Eastern Caribbean Central Bank (ECCB) Monetary Council in Dominica, marking the conclusion of his tenure as Chairman of the Council.

Reflecting on his year as Chairman, Prime Minister Browne said the Currency Union had successfully navigated a period marked by geopolitical uncertainty, inflationary pressures, volatile energy markets and shifting global trade dynamics while preserving macroeconomic stability and strengthening the foundations for future growth.

“I am pleased to report that, through sound leadership, prudent policy and unwavering regional cooperation, our Currency Union has remained stable, resilient and well-positioned for future growth,” the Prime Minister stated.

He noted that despite significant global headwinds, the economies of the Eastern Caribbean Currency Union demonstrated remarkable resilience, recording estimated economic growth of 3.3 percent during 2025. Antigua and Barbuda also achieved growth of more than three percent, driven largely by significant investments in road infrastructure and the continued expansion and modernization of the V.C. Bird International Airport.

Prime Minister Browne observed that while these achievements were encouraging, regional leaders must now focus on translating economic resilience into lasting prosperity.