The Caribbean Hotel and Tourism Association has introduced a new comprehensive framework designed to help Caribbean destinations manage the rapid growth of short-term vacation rentals (STRs), promoting sustainable development that balances economic opportunity, visitor safety, and the protection of local communities.

The organization highlighted that short-term rentals have become a permanent component of the regional tourism ecosystem. According to data released by the association, in one of the leading Caribbean destinations, STR nights booked increased by 118% between 2019 and 2025, accounting for 39% of total tourism accommodation in the first quarter of 2026.

CHTA President Sanovnik Destang stated that short-term rentals represent both “an economic opportunity and the need for smart regulation.” He explained that the goal of the new framework is to drive balanced growth that supports local entrepreneurship, expands tourism offerings, and ensures fair competition conditions.

CHTA CEO Vanessa Ledesma added that destinations implementing transparent registration and regulatory systems can strengthen their tourism brand, improve visitor safety, and ensure the long-term sustainability of the industry.

The framework presented by CHTA draws on models already implemented in destinations such as Turks and Caicos, Saint Lucia, and Bonaire. Proposed measures include mandatory registration systems, simplified tax collection mechanisms, safety standards, data transparency, and support programs for hosts and property owners.

The organization also warned that lack of regulation and oversight can lead to significant fiscal losses for governments. As an example, the report estimates that in the Dominican Republic, the annual tax gap related to tourist accommodation exceeds 170 million dollars. The comprehensive framework aims to provide concrete tools for Caribbean countries to strategically integrate the STR market into their national tourism policies.