The Caribbean Hotel and Tourism Association (CHTA) has chosen Antigua and Barbuda as the host destination for the 43rd Caribbean Travel Marketplace (CTM), slated to take place from May 18 to 22, 2025. This decision marks the first time that this premier event will be held in the Eastern Caribbean nation.

"The Caribbean Travel Marketplace is undisputedly the Caribbean’s largest and premier marketing event," stated Nicola Madden-Greig, President of CHTA. "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."

Antigua and Barbuda's selection underscores its rapid growth in the tourism sector. Colin James, CEO of the Antigua and Barbuda Tourism Authority, noted, "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."

Minister Charles “Max” Fernandez, responsible for Tourism, Civil Aviation, Transportation, and Investment, highlighted the nation's accessibility: "As a natural hub for the Eastern Caribbean, Antigua and Barbuda is served by every major airline flying to the region, offering nonstop service and easy connections from primary and secondary markets in The Americas, UK/Europe, and the Caribbean."

Craig Marshall, Chairman of the Antigua and Barbuda Hotels & Tourism Association, emphasized the economic benefits of hosting such a prestigious event: "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."

The 2025 edition of Caribbean Travel Marketplace promises a dynamic program, including Responsible Tourism Day and the Caribbean Travel Forum. These events will focus on sustainable tourism practices and critical issues in regional tourism, showcasing excellence through awards for outstanding individuals and organizations. Additionally, the Caribbean MICE Exchange will introduce a new component aimed at maximizing direct online bookings using the latest digital marketing and AI trends.

The main venue for conference activities will be the American University of Antigua (AUA), a state-of-the-art facility that recently hosted the United Nations’ 4th International Conference on Small Island Developing States (SIDS).

The decision to host the CHTA conference was announced during the Caribbean Tourism Organization’s (CTO) State of the Tourism Industry Conference (SOTIC) in Grand Cayman. CEO Colin James used the opportunity to highlight Antigua and Barbuda's year-round tourism product focused on sustainability and cultural promotion, supported by significant investments in the tourism sector.

Sandra Joseph, Permanent Secretary in the Antigua and Barbuda Ministry of Tourism, Civil Aviation, Transportation, and Investment, emphasized, "Hosting CHTA 2025 reflects our commitment to enhancing our diverse tourism offerings and setting new records in collaboration with the private sector."

Antigua and Barbuda looks forward to welcoming industry leaders, potential investors, and key stakeholders to the 43rd Caribbean Travel Marketplace, aiming to showcase its unique charm, culture, and hospitality on a global stage.