|
|
The islands of Antigua and Barbuda became an independent
state within the British Commonwealth of Nations in
1981. Some 3,000 refugees fleeing a volcanic eruption on nearby
Montserrat have settled in Antigua and Barbuda since 1995.
Tourism continues to be the dominant activity in the economy accounting
directly or indirectly for more than half of GDP. The budding offshore
financial sector has been seriously hurt by financial sanctions imposed
by the US and UK as a result of the loosening of its money-laundering
controls. The government has made efforts to comply with international
demands in order to get the sanctions lifted. Antigua and Barbuda was
listed as a tax haven by the OECD in 2000. The dual island nation's
agricultural production is mainly directed to the domestic
market; the sector is constrained by the limited water supply and labor
shortages that reflect the pull of higher wages in tourism and
construction.
|
Manufacturing comprises enclave-type assembly for
export with major products being bedding, handicrafts, and electronic
components. Prospects for economic growth in the medium term will
continue to depend on income growth in the industrialized world,
especially in the US, which accounts for about one-third of all tourist
arrivals.
Natural hazards: hurricanes and tropical storms (July to October);
periodic droughts. |
Antiqua travel guide
Antigua
Where to go
When to go
Getting there
Money and costs
Getting around
Food and drink
Phones and post
Best of Antigua
Holidays and festivals
Tours
Diving
& snorkeling
Dive operators
 Boats
&
catamarans
Boat operators
Economy, natural hazards
Exploring Antigua
-
Barbuda:
Getting there
Beyond
Cordrington
Great Fort George
Falmouth Harbour
River Fort
Cordrington
-
Falmouth and
English Harbour
Eating, drinking,
nightlife
Falmouth
 Heights,
Pigeon
Beach
|
|
