Antigua and Barbuda Eyes Cargo Aircraft to Boost Food Security Amid Global Disruptions

• Amid mounting global tensions and rising concerns over supply chain disruptions, the Government of Antigua and Barbuda has announced its intention to acquire a cargo aircraft to strengthen food security and safeguard critical imports.
• Speaking on the matter, Director General of Communications in the Office of the Prime Minister, Maurice Merchant, said the move is in direct response to international developments, including the ongoing war in Ukraine and other global hotspots, which have been affecting shipping and trade flows, particularly those originating from North America.
• “That was why the Cabinet decided to focus its attention on South America,” he explained. Merchant noted that many of the food items found on supermarket shelves in Antigua and Barbuda already come from South American countries, including Brazil and the Dominican Republic.
• The new cargo aircraft would, therefore, enhance the country’s ease of access to these markets by improving logistics and shipping efficiency. “The Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the Cabinet of Antigua and Barbuda, will be examining closely what has been happening in North America, in the U.S. in particular, and will devise programs to ensure that Antiguans and Barbudans are not impacted severely.”
• While no specific model or type of aircraft has been confirmed, the Cabinet is in the early stages of planning for the acquisition, funding, and operation of the aircraft. There is also no set timeline for when the aircraft will be procured.

(Source: Antigua Observer)