Antigua Moves Towards Ban on Harmful Sunscreen Chemicals to Protect Coral Reefs
ST JOHN’S, Antigua – The Ministry of Trade has commenced stakeholder consultation that will lead to a possible ban on certain chemicals that are used in many popular sun-screen lotions.
Senior Trade Policy Analyst in the Ministry, Jomica Carbon explained that the Ministry is undertaking the consultation to support the development of a WTO-compliant and CARICOM aligned policy to ban the importation, manufacture, sale, and distribution of sunscreens containing harmful chemicals, such as; Oxybenzone, Octinoxate; Avabenzone, Homosalate; and Octocrylene, Octisalate.
“This initiative is driven by the urgent need to protect Antigua and Barbuda’s coral reef ecosystems, which are vital to the country’s tourism-dependent economy, and to address emerging public health concerns related to these chemicals.
The proposed approach draws inspiration from international best practices, particularly the successful ban implemented by Palau, which prohibits a range of reef-toxic chemicals to preserve marine biodiversity,” said Carbon who was speaking at a meeting of the task force this week.
Permanent Secretary in the Ministry, Ambassador Dr. Clarence Pilgrim welcomed the members of the task force to the consultation noting that the goal is to take a closer look at the trade, consumer, environmental, and health implications of sunscreen products and explore the path toward a possible national policy and ban on harmful chemicals.
“We know that sunscreen plays a vital role in protecting human skin from ultraviolet rays and in preventing skin cancer. Yet, recent scientific research reminds us that the same products designed to protect human health are now causing harm to marine life and ecosystems.
“As noted in one study, organic UV filters have been found to bio-accumulate in corals, algae, mollusks, and marine vertebrates, leading to coral bleaching, endocrine and neurologic disruption, and other toxic effects,” he noted.
According to Pilgrim this issue is particularly pressing for Antigua and Barbuda, being a Small Island Developing State whose economy, environment, and cultural identity are intimately tied to its oceans and coral reefs.
“The Cabinet recognised the urgency of this matter and has called for decisive policy and action. As a member of the OECS, CARICOM, and the global SIDS community, Antigua and Barbuda has an opportunity to lead on developing environmentally responsible standards and legislation in this area,” he observed.
The framework for the scope of work presented by Corbin indicates that October 2025-January 2026 has been set aside for meetings of the task force; February to March, 2026, Circulation of draft policy and feedback collection; April, 2026, final policy revision and submission to Cabinet; mid-2026, has been earmarked for policy implementation pending the approval of the Cabinet.
