Prime Minister Gaston Browne says the government’s plan to improve festival production standards is aimed at strengthening Antigua and Barbuda’s ability to host major international events, not criticising local providers.

During his weekly radio programme on Saturday, Browne addressed debate over whether the government should acquire its own sound system for national events such as Carnival and One Nation. He said the goal is to raise the quality of stage and sound production as the country expands its role as a regional events destination.

“We are leveling up. It is not a derogatory term and it is not about being ungrateful to anyone who has provided services in the past,” Browne said. “It is about improving standards so that Antigua and Barbuda can compete internationally.”

Browne disclosed that the government has already purchased a new stage — about 119 feet long and more than 60 feet wide — which is expected to arrive within two weeks and replace the wooden structures traditionally built at the Recreation Ground. He said the structure should last more than a decade and prove more cost-effective over time.

Responding to objections from local sound provider Whitney Williams, Browne said Cabinet has not yet made a final decision but could move to purchase its own system if acceptable proposals are not received.

He noted that during the Small Island Developing States conference, Antigua and Barbuda had to import production equipment at a cost of more than US$1 million because local systems did not meet international requirements.

Cabinet is expected to review proposals from local operators in the coming week before deciding on the next step.