Minister Fernandez Highlights Antigua and Barbuda’s Strategic Miami Connection at Interamerican Conference

Minister of Tourism, Civil Aviation, Transportation and Investment, the Honourable H. Charles Fernandez, has highlighted the critical importance of Miami to Antigua and Barbuda’s tourism, trade, aviation and maritime sectors while participating in the 28th InterAmerican Conference of Mayors and Local Authorities in Miami.

Minister Fernandez was featured on the high-level panel, “Miami as the Gateway to the Americas – Ports & Airports: Integrated Hubs of the Future,” which explored the interconnected role of airports and seaports in facilitating trade, tourism, investment and economic development.

During his intervention, Minister Fernandez stressed that Antigua and Barbuda’s economy is profoundly connected to Miami, with South Florida serving as an important gateway for the movement of people, goods and services. “Miami is not simply another destination for Antigua and Barbuda. It is a critical gateway through which a significant portion of our trade, tourism and connectivity flows,” Minister Fernandez said.

Against this backdrop, the Minister outlined Antigua and Barbuda’s significant investments in strengthening its own gateway infrastructure, including continued development at V.C. Bird International Airport, the recent runway rehabilitation programme and the approximately US$100 million redevelopment of the St. John’s Deep Water Harbour.