Citizenship by Investment (CBI) programmes have become a major source of revenue for Eastern Caribbean economies, accounting for 75 cents of every non-tax dollar earned in the region, according to the Governor of the Eastern Caribbean Central Bank (ECCB).

Speaking at the Eastern Caribbean Currency Union chairmanship handover at the AUA Conference Centre, Timothy Antoine described the CBI initiatives as “critical” to the fiscal stability of OECS countries, especially Antigua and Barbuda.

He said the ECCB is leading efforts to safeguard these programmes through a proposed legislative framework and the creation of a regional regulator to boost transparency and credibility.

The draft legislation—shared with governments and international partners including the US, UK, and EU—has been opened for public feedback.

Antigua and Barbuda’s Prime Minister Gaston Browne echoed the importance of the programmes, stressing their role in sustaining economic growth and calling for continued support.

The future of CBI remains under close watch, as the region moves to ensure its sustainability amid international scrutiny.