Belize will be playing host the Caribbean Conference on Sustainable Tourism Development (STC 2026) from April 27-30 in San Pedro, Ambergris Caye, Belize, Caribbean Journal has learned.

It’s a natural fit for a destination with some of the premier sustainable tourism offerings in the broader region.

Now in its 17th edition, the conference will bring together regional and international tourism leaders under the theme “Tourism in Full Color: Integrating Blue, Green, Orange and Beyond Economies into Sustainable Planning and Development.”

“STC 2026 reflects the Caribbean’s commitment to reimagining tourism as a powerful driver of inclusive growth, climate resilience and cultural vitality,” said Dona Regis-Prosper, the CTO’s Secretary-General and CEO. “By embracing a Tourism in Full Color approach, we are encouraging destinations to move beyond fragmented planning and instead adopt integrated models that balance environmental stewardship, cultural identity, community well-being and economic opportunity.”

Belize’s Minister of Tourism Anthony Mahler, said the destination was “deeply honored” to host the conference, in a statement provided to Caribbean Journal.

“This conference underscores Belize’s commitment to sustainable tourism and reinforces our role as a catalyst for innovation and responsible growth in the Caribbean,” he said. “STC 2026 will serve as a dynamic platform for bold ideas and strategic partnerships. I invite industry partners and policymakers to join us as we help shape a sustainable future for Caribbean tourism.”

A “Tourism in Full Color” Approach

The CTO said the conference will be anchored in an integrated development framework that links multiple tourism economies, including the Blue Economy focused on responsible use of marine and coastal resources; the Green Economy advancing climate-resilient, low-carbon and nature-positive tourism solutions; and the Orange Economyemphasizing culture, heritage and creative industries.

The conference will also explore “Beyond economies,” including the Purple Economy, which focuses on values, social cohesion, identity, well-being and inclusive growth.

Four Days of Programming in Ambergris Caye

STC 2026 will include a four-day program featuring a ministerial roundtable, expert plenaries, concurrent technical sessions, master classes and field-based learning experiences focused on sustainable tourism practices.

According to the CTO, sessions will address topics including blue and green financing, climate risk management, regenerative tourism, cultural tourism, creative industries and governance models for emerging tourism frameworks.