Antigua and Barbuda has been selected to host the Caribbean Hotel and Tourism Association’s (CHTA) 43rd Caribbean Travel Marketplace (CTM).
The news was announced yesterday as Caribbean stakeholders met in the Cayman Islands for the State of the Tourism Industry Conference (SOTIC).
The event is set to take place between May 18 and 22, 2025 at the University of Antigua (AUA) campus, which recently hosted the United Nations’ Fourth International Conference on Small Island Developing States (SIDS).
It’s the first time Antigua and Barbuda is hosting the conference, which brings together global buyers and regional suppliers in the tourism industry.
“With a 16 percent increase in stay-over arrivals this year, surpassing 2019’s record levels, our twin-island nation has become a focal point for international travel and investment,” said Colin James, CEO of the Antigua and Barbuda Tourism Authority.
CHTA President Nicola Madden-Greig expressed her excitement about producing the next edition of its signature event in Antigua and Barbuda: “Marketplace is undisputedly the Caribbean’s largest and premier marketing event, and we are delighted that Antigua and Barbuda will be the site for this important gathering of Caribbean suppliers and global buyers, where new and established stakeholders can gain access to the diverse offerings of travel products and experiences throughout the region.”
“With major infrastructure and hotel developments as well as robust airlift, we are not only a premier regional destination but conveniently accessible to travellers,” stated Charles “Max” Fernandez, Minister of Tourism, Civil Aviation, Transportation and Investment.
“As a natural hub for the Eastern Caribbean, Antigua and Barbuda is served by every major airline flying to the region. That makes us accessible from all primary and secondary markets in The Americas, UK/Europe and the Caribbean, by nonstop service and easy connections,” he added.
“This is an incredible opportunity for our twin-island nation to be on full display to industry leaders, potential investors, and key stakeholders in the global tourism sector. Hosting such a prestigious event not only places us at the centre of regional attention but also brings significant economic benefits,” said Craig Marshall, Chairman of the Antigua and Barbuda Hotels and Tourism Association.
“The influx of visitors, media coverage, and business engagements will provide a substantial boost to our local economy, create new opportunities for our tourism and hospitality sectors, and further solidify Antigua and Barbuda as a premier destination in the Caribbean. We look forward to showcasing the unique charm, culture, and hospitality that make our islands truly special,” he added.
The CHTA said next year’s edition of Marketplace promises a dynamic program, featuring the Responsible Tourism Day, highlighting the importance of sustainable tourism practices through community engagement activities.
The Caribbean MICE Exchange returns next year, and CHTA will introduce a new component to the program: a day focused on maximising direct online bookings using the latest technology and trends in digital marketing and Artificial Intelligence.
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