Antigua and Barbuda emerges as the prime location for the 43rd Caribbean Travel Marketplace in 2025.
- The twin-island nation will host around 2,000 attendees, showcasing its growing significance in hospitality.
- Significant rise in international arrivals highlights its appeal as an investment hub.
- Key industry figures highlight Antigua’s accessibility and strategic geographical positioning.
- The event will introduce new initiatives in responsible tourism and digital marketing.
Antigua and Barbuda has been selected to host the 43rd Caribbean Travel Marketplace next year, underscoring the nation’s growing stature in the hospitality and tourism sectors. The selection of Antigua and Barbuda highlights the destination’s increasing popularity among global travellers and investors.
The Caribbean Travel Marketplace, scheduled to take place from May 18-22, 2025, is anticipated to bring together approximately 2,000 participants, including major global buyers and regional suppliers. This gathering will provide an ideal platform for Antigua and Barbuda to demonstrate its expanding role in the hospitality industry.
With a remarkable 16% increase in stay-over arrivals, surpassing 2019’s record levels, Antigua and Barbuda is establishing itself as a focal point for international travel and investment. Colin C. James, CEO of the Antigua and Barbuda Tourism Authority, stated that the conference would further position the nation as a prominent MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions) destination.
Nicola Madden-Greig, president of the Caribbean Hotel and Tourism Association, commented on the significance of the Marketplace, emphasising that it is the premier marketing event in the Caribbean. She expressed delight that Antigua and Barbuda will host such an important assembly of stakeholders eager to explore the region’s diverse travel offerings.
Minister Charles ‘Max’ Fernandez highlighted Antigua and Barbuda’s excellent connectivity to major markets within the Americas, UK, Europe, and the Caribbean. This accessibility is facilitated through direct services and easy connections, making it an attractive destination for international visitors.
A noteworthy feature of the 2025 Marketplace will be the Responsible Tourism Day and the Caribbean Travel Forum, which will convene leaders from both public and private sectors to address critical issues affecting regional tourism. Moreover, for the first time, there will be a dedicated day focusing on enhancing direct online bookings through the latest advances in digital marketing and artificial intelligence. The conference will be held at the prestigious American University of Antigua, offering opportunities for both established and emerging players in the industry to engage in strategic discussions.
Antigua and Barbuda’s role as host of the 43rd Caribbean Travel Marketplace reflects its rising prominence in the global tourism industry.
