Maritime Security & Sanctions: Antigua and Barbuda co-hosted the U.S.-backed Global Maritime Security and Sanctions Enforcement Symposium in St. John’s (July 13–15), bringing together ship registries and authorities from 26 countries to tighten enforcement against sanctions evasion and shadow fleets. U.S. Pressure on Illicit Shipping: Washington also escalated action against the Iran-linked Shamkhani network, issuing a new OFAC general license and adding more than 50 people, firms and vessels to its blocked lists. Local Governance & Finance: Parliament passed the Banking (Amendment) Bill, 2026, creating a new framework for unclaimed bank deposits so governments can use idle funds while depositors retain the right to reclaim indefinitely. Immigration Negotiations: Lawmakers approved a resolution setting strict terms for any U.S. third-country transfer talks, with Antigua and Barbuda keeping full discretion and rejecting any automatic or open-ended arrangement. Industrial Relations: Ministry of Works employees briefly blocked access over outstanding pay, then resumed duties after talks. Tourism & Aviation: LIAT launched a historic nonstop link between Guadeloupe and Montego Bay, while PM Browne renewed calls for an OECS airline to fix chronic regional flight delays. Water Supply: APUA scheduled maintenance at the Fort James RO plant, causing intermittent service in several communities. Business Community: The Antigua and Barbuda Chamber of Commerce named its 2026–2027 executive team, spanning banking, tech, telecoms, shipping and retail.