Prime Minister Gaston Browne says the government will not allow any supplier to “hold this country hostage” when it comes to delivering major productions and international-standard events in Antigua and Barbuda.

Speaking on the Browne and Browne Show on Pointe FM, Browne said the country must ensure it has the capacity to stage high-level conferences, festivals and international performances without being dependent on a single provider.

“We are leveling up,” Browne said during the discussion, adding that the government will not permit any individual or company to dictate terms in a way that compromises national development goals.

The prime minister stressed that Antigua and Barbuda must be able to provide large stages, top-tier sound systems and professional production standards in order to compete regionally and internationally.

He noted that certain high-profile artists and major events require advanced staging and technical infrastructure, and said the country cannot afford to fall short when positioning itself as a destination for global conferences and entertainment.

Browne also called for greater professionalism within the events sector, saying training and certification in areas such as sound engineering are necessary to raise standards and reduce reliance on overseas technicians.

He framed the issue as part of a broader effort to modernize Antigua and Barbuda’s tourism and conference offerings, arguing that delivering an “international experience” is essential as the country continues to expand its role in hosting global meetings and major cultural events.