Cabinet in Antigua and Barbuda takes actions on sand mining

The Antigua and Barbuda government has taken steps to limit importing sand from Barbuda to Antigua, and has banned its export to other countries.

The news was announced by Foreign Affairs Minister Charles Ferbandez.

Speaking at a post-cabinet briefing, he was questioned on how much sand will still be allowed to move between islands.

"My understanding is that if not all certainly most of it will be restricted. I think we are going towards all.

"My understanding is that it will be cut off totally. But if there is any sand to be used it will be given priority to the project in Bermuda.

As a result of the new measures, the duty and revenue recovery charge will be waived on sand imported from Guyana, Montserrat and Dominica.

Sales tax will still be charged, along with a $5 fee per ton.

The fee will go to Barbuda Council in place of revenue lost from sand exports. An official figure isn't know, but some estimates put revenue from sand mining at $5 million a year.

Damage to the island

The Environment Division has called for sand mining to be restricted for more than 20 years.

And it would also like to see it ended as soon as possible.

Environmentalists blame the sand mining industry for severely damaging the island.

This could leave people on the island vulnerable to natural disasters, experts warn.