Rasona Davis-Crump, Antigua and Barbuda’s Representative on the eccb Board of Directors,
The Cabinet of Antigua and Barbuda received a presentation from Financial Secretary Rasona Davis Crump on preparations for the Business Forum, which will form part of the official side events associated with the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM) 2026.
The briefing outlined the importance of the Business Forum as a platform for bringing together business leaders, investors, policymakers, development partners and other stakeholders to explore investment opportunities and strengthen commercial partnerships across the Commonwealth.
The Forum is expected to complement the high-level discussions among Commonwealth leaders by providing opportunities for the private sector to engage directly with government representatives and potential business partners. It will also serve as a platform for showcasing Antigua and Barbuda as an attractive destination for investment and business development.
Cabinet was advised that the Business Forum will contribute to the broader objectives of CHOGM 2026, particularly the promotion of partnerships, investment and sustainable economic growth. The event will provide an opportunity to highlight the economic potential of Antigua and Barbuda and the wider Caribbean, while encouraging greater collaboration among Commonwealth countries.
The Government recognizes that hosting CHOGM presents a significant opportunity to strengthen Antigua and Barbuda’s international profile, deepen economic relationships and attract investment into priority sectors. The Business Forum is expected to support these objectives by facilitating dialogue on emerging opportunities, economic diversification and the role of private enterprise in advancing national and regional development.
The presentation by the Financial Secretary also underscored the importance of coordinated planning across Government and engagement with the private sector to ensure that the Forum delivers meaningful outcomes.
Cabinet welcomed the briefing and acknowledged the importance of the Business Forum as a component of the country’s preparations to host the Commonwealth gathering. The Government remains committed to ensuring that CHOGM 2026 provides tangible benefits for Antigua and Barbuda, including opportunities for investment, business development, job creation and stronger international partnerships.
Through the Business Forum and the wider programme of CHOGM activities, Antigua and Barbuda seeks to position itself as a forward-looking small state ready to engage with international partners, pursue new economic opportunities and contribute to a more prosperous Commonwealth.
This article was originally published by Antigua News Room. Read the original article here: Cabinet Briefed on Business Forum to be held alongside CHOGM 2026.