Antigua and Barbuda’s long-awaited number portability service is now expected to be implemented by the end of the year, despite missing its initial June deadline.

Information Minister Melford Nicholas said delays were largely due to challenges faced by the Antigua Public Utilities Authority (APUA), which is still finalising its part of the transition.

Speaking on state media this week, Nicholas explained that while Digicel and Flow are ready to proceed, APUA encountered setbacks, including the loss of a key consultant and competing project priorities.

“They had to regroup after the passing of their lead consultant, which caused a six-month delay. A replacement is now on board, and APUA is working with a new consultant to push the project forward,” Nicholas said.

He noted that regular updates are being provided and estimated that full implementation could be achieved within three months.

Number portability will allow customers to switch mobile providers without changing their phone numbers, increasing competition and consumer choice in the telecoms sector.