Capital City: St. Johns
Population: 69, 842 (2008 est.)
Official Language:English
Main religion: Christian
Ethnicities: African decent, British, Portuguese, Lebanese, Syrian
Currency: East Caribbean Dollar (EC)
Exchange rate: $2.72 EC = $1 US (fixed rate since 1976)
Climate: Tropical

The Country

Antigua and Barbuda are sister tropical islands situated approximately 30 miles apart, in the Eastern Caribbean. Expanding a total of 442 sq. km (Antigua 281 sq. km., Barbuda 161 sq. km.), enchanting sugar sand beaches, volcanic terrain and tropical valleys cover the islands.

The Government

In 1981 Antigua and Barbuda gained independence from England and joined the Commonwealth of Nations as an independent state. The government of the two islands is a stable consitutional monarchy modeled after that of the United Kingdom, with a legal system based on English law. Queen Elizabeth II, the chief of state, is represented by the Governor General Sir James B. Carlisle. The head of the government is the Prime Minister Winston Baldwin Spencer.

Trade Highlights

Imports: Food and live animals, machinery, transport equipment, manufactured goods, lubricants, lumber, fuels.
Total imports: US$522.8 million (2007)
Imports from the US: $240 million (2007)
US Imports Market Share: 21% (2007)

Economic Outlook

The spectacular topography and scenic views attract tourists from around the world to the island getaways. Antigua and Barbuda has built its economy off of its tourism, financial services and government services sectors.

GDP: $1.52 billion (2007)
GDP growth rate: 6.1% (2007)
Per capita GDP: $18,300 (2007 est.)

Reasons to Enter or Expand into Antigua and Barbuda

Trade Incentives: Antigua and Barbuda welcome international trade with an exemption from import duties on all production machinery, equipment and raw materials.

Acceptance of US products: Antigua and Barbuda enjoy the high quality, reliable, low cost goods available in the United States market. The amicable trade relations and ethical business practices maintained by the US with Antigua and Barbuda have also contributed to importers favoring US suppliers.

Best Prospects

• Pharmaceuticals
• Construction Equipment
• Hotel Equipment
• Yachting equipment

"Your Connection to Antigua and Barbuda

Our Carribean Regional Office in Santo Domingo assists U.S. companies with their business needs in Antigua and Barbuda by working with the U.S. Embassy, American Chamber of Commerce and other contacts in-country.  

Please contact Mrs. Maria Elena Portorreal at maria.portorreal@N0SPAM.mail.doc.gov to learn how we can help your company enter or expand into this market.