What’s next for tourism in the Caribbean? Whether it’s climate adaptation, workforce development or diversification, the region’s most important industry continues to change and evolve, with new challenges continuing to emerge.
Tackling those challenges is at the core of this year’s push for the Barbados-based Caribbean Tourism Organization, which says it is focusing this year on Caribbean “resilience.”
The theme, “Crafting Tomorrow’s Tourism,” is about embracing strengths, addressing problems and creating what executives call a “future-ready” tourism sector.
“It is a rallying call to strengthen partnerships, invest in our people, and prioritize sustainability while harnessing technology and innovation to redefine how the Caribbean engages with global travelers,” says Ian Gooding-Edghill, Barbados’ Minister of Tourism and the CTO’s Chairman.
“We must commit to building a tourism sector that not only meets today’s demands but also anticipates tomorrow’s opportunities,” he says.
Resilience, according to Gooding-Edghill is “at the core of the Caribbean’s identity.”
The 2025 push will include events, workshops and other initiatives designed to embrace resilience and foster innovation around the region, according to the CTO.
“This theme is an invitation to celebrate our collective resilience and to take bold steps toward a future where the Caribbean continues to shine as a center of innovation, sustainability and unmatched hospitality. Together, we will craft a tourism industry that embodies the true spirit of the Caribbean,” said Gooding-Edghill.