By Antonio Dey | HGP Nightly News
Antigua & Barbuda – Teachers Strike Forces School Closures
Public schools across Antigua and Barbuda were closed on Monday as industrial action led by the Antigua and Barbuda Union of Teachers (ABUT) continues. The union protests the government’s failure to resolve long-standing payment disputes and uphold collective bargaining agreements.
The Ministry of Education, Sports, and Creative Industries confirmed the cancellations in a statement, citing safety and security concerns.
“Children should remain at home until all outstanding matters with ABUT are settled and the notice of resumption of classes is issued.”
However, the ministry clarified that public school teachers are still required to report for duty, and there will be no disruption to the Caribbean Examinations Council (CXC) exams currently underway.
Caribbean – PAHO Urges Mosquito Control Amid Virus Surge
Turning to regional health, the Pan American Health Organization (PAHO) is urging Caribbean governments to ramp up mosquito surveillance and eliminate breeding grounds.
PAHO Director Dr. Jarbas Barbosa said:
“Climate change has increased the spread of the Aedes aegypti mosquito, and with it, the prevalence of arboviral diseases like dengue, Zika, and chikungunya.”
The region has reported over 30 million suspected dengue cases in 2024, a staggering 283% increase over 2023. Cases of chikungunya and Zika are also climbing, putting vulnerable populations — especially children, the elderly, and pregnant women — at greater risk.
United States – Tariff Relief on Chinese Imports Amid Trade Talks
In international news, the White House has announced reduced tariffs on low-value goods imported from China. The move is part of a broader agreement between Washington and Beijing to end the trade war.
Effective May 14, tariffs on items valued up to $800 will be reduced from $120 to a flat rate of 54% or $100 per package — depending on the shipment.
This policy shift is expected to impact major Chinese e-commerce platforms, such as Shein and Temu, as logistics providers and freight forwarders prepare to adjust how they collect fees from sellers in China.
