Antigua and Barbuda is set to host the 43rd Caribbean Travel Marketplace in 2025, showcasing its burgeoning status in the global tourism arena.
- The event is expected to draw approximately 2,000 attendees, including key global buyers and regional suppliers, underscoring the nation’s appeal as a destination for international travel and investment.
- A notable increase of 16% in stay-over arrivals this year marks Antigua and Barbuda’s rising prominence, surpassing pre-pandemic levels from 2019.
- The conference will focus on the MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions) market, further cementing the islands’ role as a hub for business tourism.
- The event will integrate a Responsible Tourism Day and innovations in digital marketing and AI, reinforcing a forward-thinking approach to tourism.
Antigua and Barbuda has been selected to host the 43rd Caribbean Travel Marketplace (CTM) next year, a decision reflecting its growing popularity and escalating status in the Caribbean hospitality and tourism industry. This significant event, scheduled from May 18-22, 2025, is anticipated to attract around 2,000 participants, including major international buyers and regional suppliers, highlighting the island nation’s burgeoning role on the global stage.
Colin C. James, the chief executive of the Antigua and Barbuda Tourism Authority, noted a remarkable 16% increase in stay-over arrivals this year, surpassing the record levels of 2019. This surge in visitors positions the twin-island nation as a critical focal point for both international travel and investment opportunities. Antigua and Barbuda aims to capitalise on this momentum to further establish itself as a leading destination in the MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions) market.
The president of the Caribbean Hotel and Tourism Association, Nicola Madden-Greig, emphasised that the Marketplace is the premier marketing event in the Caribbean. She expressed delight in having Antigua and Barbuda host such a pivotal gathering where both new and seasoned stakeholders can explore the diverse travel offerings throughout the region.
Minister Charles ‘Max’ Fernandez highlighted Antigua and Barbuda’s strategic accessibility from major markets across the Americas, UK/Europe, and the Caribbean, facilitated by numerous direct services and convenient connections. This accessibility is a key advantage for attracting business and leisure tourists alike.
The 2025 Marketplace will feature a Responsible Tourism Day and the Caribbean Travel Forum, which will engage public and private sector leaders in discourse on pressing regional tourism issues. Innovations for this year include a day dedicated to enhancing direct online bookings by leveraging the latest in digital marketing and artificial intelligence. This progressive agenda reflects a commitment to aligning with contemporary trends and technologies in the travel industry.
The hosting of the 2025 Caribbean Travel Marketplace is poised to significantly enhance Antigua and Barbuda’s reputation as a premier tourism and business hub.
