The Caribbean Travel Marketplace, organized by the Caribbean Hotel and Tourism Association (CHTA), positions Antigua and Barbuda at the center of regional tourism business at a pivotal moment for global travel, consolidating its role as a strategic platform for the development of the tourism industry in the Caribbean. This was highlighted by the CEO of the Antigua and Barbuda Tourism Authority, Colin C. James, who noted that the arrival of key industry stakeholders to the destination not only showcases the strength of the national tourism product, but also deepens key partnerships between international and local stakeholders.

In this regard, James emphasized that such gatherings place the country in a privileged position to capitalize on concrete business opportunities, strengthen regional cooperation, and reinforce a strategy of sustained growth in visitor arrivals. The executive underscored that the event takes place in a decisive context for the global tourism industry, where connectivity, innovation, and strategic partnerships are essential for the future of the Caribbean tourism sector.

The Caribbean destination is preparing to welcome more than 500 tourism professionals from around the world for the 44th edition of the Caribbean Travel Marketplace, the premier business event organized by the Caribbean Hotel and Tourism Association (CHTA), scheduled to take place from May 12 to 15, 2026, at the conference center of the American University of Antigua.

This will be the second consecutive year that Antigua and Barbuda hosts the event, further consolidating its leadership in regional tourism and strengthening its positioning in the MICE segment (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences and Exhibitions). The Minister of Tourism, Civil Aviation, Transportation and Investment, Charles Fernandez, highlighted that the selection of the destination reflects the industry’s confidence in its organizational capacity and its growing relevance as a host of major international events.

The organization of the event is being carried out through close collaboration between the Ministry of Tourism, the Tourism Authority, and the Antigua and Barbuda Hotels and Tourism Association (ABHTA), with the aim of replicating and surpassing the success of the previous edition.

The program will also include key initiatives such as Responsible Tourism Day, focused on sustainable practices and environmental conservation, and the Direct Booking Summit, where industry leaders will analyze trends and innovations that are transforming the sector.

The event will also attract extensive international media coverage, enhancing the destination’s global visibility, and will coincide with Antigua and Barbuda’s annual Culinary Month, offering delegates a comprehensive experience that combines business and local culture.