Prime Highlights:
- Anguilla is experiencing a major financial boost from global demand for its “.ai” domain, turning a small island into a key player in the tech world.
- The government plans to use this income to improve infrastructure, reduce taxes, and support long-term development.
Key Facts:
- Anguilla earned around £29 million from domain sales in 2024, nearly a quarter of its total national revenue.
- Domain registrations have increased by more than 400% in the past five years, with each “.ai” address selling for several times more than a regular “.com.”
Background:
The small Caribbean island of Anguilla has become the center of a new digital boom. Known for its clear blue waters and luxury resorts like Cap Juluca, the island’s latest source of income comes not from tourism but from growing demand in the tech world.
Anguilla’s “.ai” internet domain is now one of the most popular web addresses in the tech industry. As AI-driven companies across the globe race to secure their digital identities, the island has turned its internet extension into a major source of national revenue. The government earned around £29 million from domain sales in 2024, nearly a quarter of its total income, and expects even greater earnings this year.
Technology Minister Jose Vanterpool said the rise in revenue came from growing tech demand, noting that domain sales once made up less than one percent of the national budget. Today, they make up nearly half. He described the phenomenon as “a blessing” for the island and hinted at using the funds to invest in infrastructure, education, and reducing the tax burden on citizens.
Registrations for .ai domains have grown by more than 400% over the last five years, according to domain registrar Ionos. Companies are willing to pay a premium, often six times more than a typical .com domain, to associate their brands with artificial intelligence.
Economists, however, urge caution. Dr. Stefan Fortuné from the Caribbean rating agency CariCRIS described Anguilla’s success as a “fortunate opportunity” but warned that the island should not depend too heavily on this single source of income. He suggested that the government use the profits for long-term investments, such as creating a national fund to ensure future stability.
