Prime Minister Gaston Browne has criticised landowners who purchase property earmarked for tourism development but fail to build, saying the practice is limiting opportunities for greater local participation in Antigua and Barbuda’s tourism industry.

Browne said land at Pensioners Beach, Shell Beach and other locations had been acquired for accommodation projects, but construction had not progressed as expected.

He encouraged local investors to develop villas and short-term rental properties, arguing that simply owning land does little to generate economic activity.

The prime minister also urged people with substantial savings in banks to consider investing in income-generating assets rather than allowing inflation to erode the value of their money.

He suggested that investment seminars could help residents make better financial decisions, including how to balance savings with investments that offer opportunities for long-term returns.

Browne said the government remained willing to support viable tourism projects undertaken by local investors but stressed that landowners must take practical steps toward development.

He maintained that expanding local ownership of tourism accommodation would create additional opportunities for Antiguans and Barbudans to benefit directly from the industry.

This article was originally published by Antigua News Room. Read the original article here: PM Browne criticises landowners for leaving tourism development sites idle.