Visa Ruling: A New York judge struck down a Trump administration nationality-based visa ban that included Antigua and Barbuda, saying the directive exceeded authority and was unlawful. Security & Trade: Antigua and Barbuda will buy X-ray machines to scan entire shipping containers and pallets to better catch illegal firearms and disguised components at ports of entry. Public Safety Policy: Cabinet approved new measures to tackle gun crime, including planned minimum/maximum sentencing legislation for serious gun offences and sexual offences against minors. Cruise Industry: Antigua Cruise Port earned a nomination for Caribbean’s Best Cruise Terminal 2026 after upgrades like a fifth berth and a new purpose-built terminal. Tourism & Heritage: Antigua and Barbuda is set to benefit from early Carnival 70 planning, with government pushing stakeholder engagement and global marketing. Education & STEM: The Halo Foundation donated air-conditioning units to support the TechByte STEM Academy launch in September 2026. Agriculture Skills: Antigua and Barbuda participants completed agricultural training in China focused on irrigation, soil monitoring, water management and smart farming. Tax Relief: ABST will drop to zero for qualifying school supplies and food items on Aug 28–29. Energy Costs: ECCB data shows Antigua and Barbuda recorded the lowest gas and diesel prices in the ECCU in July 2026. Health Recall: Antigua’s Department of Pharmaceutical Services recalled specific batches of Diovan, Atorstan and cetirizine tablets, urging patients to check lot numbers and not stop treatment without medical advice.