Antigua and Barbuda is developing legislation to regulate possible deep-sea mining while maintaining that commercial extraction should not proceed without stronger scientific evidence and environmental safeguards.

The government has drafted the Blue Economy Bill of 2024 and the Antigua and Barbuda Seabed Minerals Act of 2025. The laws could regulate seabed mining, issue exploration licences and allow the country to sponsor companies operating in international waters.

The move follows Prime Minister Gaston Browne’s declaration at the United Nations General Assembly in September 2025 that Antigua and Barbuda supported a moratorium on deep-sea mining.

Blue Economy Director Ann-Louise Hill said the government remains cautious.

“We want to get the legal framework finalized before we even touch on deep-sea mining,” Hill said.

Polymetallic nodules containing minerals such as cobalt and nickel are believed to exist in Antigua and Barbuda’s maritime area, but no scientific exploration has determined their quantity, composition or value.

Marine ecologist Ruleo Camacho said the country lacks the technology and capacity to monitor mining activities, while Dr. Diva Amon described deep-sea mining as an “incredibly destructive activity.”

Concerns have also been raised about whether mining would deliver the promised economic benefits and its potential impact on tourism, fisheries, yachting and food security.

Environmental Awareness Group Marine Conservation Programme Coordinator Joshel Wilson said small islands could feel the effects of mining even when it occurs beyond their waters.

“The people who are going to be affected must have a say,” Wilson said.

There are currently no plans to begin deep-sea mining in Caribbean waters, but the proposed legislation would prepare Antigua and Barbuda if that changes.

Source: Antigua News Room Antigua and Barbuda Drafts Laws to Prepare for Possible Deep-Sea Mining.