IMF EXECUTIVE BOARD WELCOMES A&B’S CONTINUED ECONOMIC EXPANSION

The executive board of the International Monetary Fund says it welcomes Antigua and Barbuda’s continued economic expansion, “supported by construction activity and resilient tourism.”

The executive directors also point to what they describe as “a welcome moderation of inflation.”

The executive board has outlined its assessment as it concludes the 2026 Article IV Consultation with Antigua and Barbuda, following a staff visit earlier this year.

Directors have also welcomed the decline in public debt as a share of Gross Domestic Product, moving from 101 percent of GDP in 2020, to an estimated 68 percent in 2025, aided by an improved fiscal position.

The earlier IMF staff-level report pointed to continuing economic expansion in Antigua and Barbuda.

The executive board has noted that persistent arrears and elevated gross financing needs remain challenges for the authorities in St John’s.

The IMF board has pointed to the downside risks from the war in the Middle East and the country’s long-standing debt challenges.

The directors want the government to develop and implement a credible and comprehensive strategy for addressing all arrears, as well as broaden financing options.