The Ministry of Trade has begun consultations that could lead to a ban on certain chemicals found in popular sunscreen products, citing threats to coral reefs and marine life.
Senior Trade Policy Analyst Jomica Carbon said the initiative aims to develop a World Trade Organization (WTO)-compliant and CARICOM-aligned policy to restrict the importation, manufacture, and sale of sunscreens containing harmful chemicals such as oxybenzone, octinoxate, avobenzone, homosalate, and octocrylene.
“This initiative is driven by the urgent need to protect Antigua and Barbuda’s coral reef ecosystems, which are vital to the country’s tourism-dependent economy,” Carbon said during a recent task force meeting. She noted that the proposed approach follows international best practices, referencing Palau’s ban on reef-toxic chemicals to preserve marine biodiversity.
Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Trade, Ambassador Dr. Clarence Pilgrim, chaired the meeting and underscored the government’s commitment to balancing public health with environmental protection. “The goal is to take a closer look at how we can strengthen environmental policies and protect both our people and our ecosystems,” he said.
Recent scientific findings have shown that while sunscreen products play an essential role in protecting human skin from ultraviolet radiation and preventing skin cancer, certain organic UV filters can bioaccumulate in corals, algae, and marine species. These substances have been linked to coral bleaching, endocrine disruption, and neurological harm.
The Ministry’s consultations will continue with stakeholders across the tourism, health, and environmental sectors as Antigua and Barbuda works toward adopting a comprehensive policy to safeguard both human health and marine ecosystems
