New deadline in Antigua / US talks

The online gambling feud between the US and Antigua is set to continue for at least several more months following the arrival of an American trade delegation to the tiny Caribbean nation last week for another round of talks.

The countries have been at odds since the World Trade Organization ruled last year that the island could impose retaliatory sanctions up to USD 21 million for a US ban on online betting, which had become a major staple in the Antiguan economy.

Antigua has accused the US of crippling its gambling industry by banning Americans from placing online bets with gambling operators including those in the twin-island country.

Errol Cort, Finance Minister for Antigua, announced that officials will know in about three months whether a compromise agreement is feasible after agreeing to extend a July 11 deadline.