Prime Minister Gaston Browne has dismissed claims by the opposition United Progressive Party (UPP) that Antigua and Barbuda is behind on loan payments for the airport and seaport projects, calling the allegations “false and misleading.”
Speaking in Parliament, Browne insisted that the government remains current on all its financial obligations to the Export-Import Bank of China (China Exim Bank) and denied suggestions that the country risks losing control of key infrastructure due to loan defaults.
“I wish to state categorically that these claims are a figment of the opposition’s imagination,” Browne said. “We are fully up to date with all of our loan payments to China Exim Bank, and there is absolutely no risk of losing our seaport or airport.”
The opposition has repeatedly questioned the government’s management of external debt, particularly loans from China. Concerns have been raised about the long-term financial implications and whether the country’s borrowing strategy puts national assets at risk.
UPP officials have pointed to reports of other nations facing difficulties in repaying Chinese loans, leading to fears that critical infrastructure in Antigua and Barbudacould be used as collateral. However, the government has rejected such concerns as baseless speculation.
Browne reiterated that his administration is managing the country’s debt responsibly and that China remains a key development partner. He argued that opposition claims were politically motivated and aimed at creating unnecessary public fear.
“We continue to engage in prudent financial management to ensure that our debt obligations are met,” Browne said. “Our partnership with China remains strong, and we will continue to develop infrastructure that benefits the people of Antigua and Barbuda.”
While the government maintains that the loans are being serviced on schedule, opposition members have called for greater transparency in financial reporting to ensure accountability in debt management.
