The Caribbean tourism sector remains on a positive growth trajectory despite global economic uncertainties and shifting geopolitical conditions, according to Ian Gooding-Edghill, chairman of the Caribbean Tourism Organization (CTO).
Speaking at the opening of Caribbean Tourism Week in New York on Monday, Gooding-Edghill expressed confidence in the region’s tourism outlook, highlighting strong visitor arrivals and sustained international interest in Caribbean destinations.
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The weeklong event, hosted by the Barbados-based CTO under the theme “One Caribbean: Infinite Experiences,”coincides with the start of Caribbean American Heritage Month and brings together tourism officials, industry leaders, and stakeholders from across the region.
Gooding-Edghill reported that Caribbean tourism continued to expand in 2025, recording a 2.5 percent increase in visitor arrivals over the previous year. The region welcomed approximately 900,000 additional visitors, with overall arrivals surpassing pre-pandemic levels.
Cruise tourism also delivered strong results, with cruise passenger visits increasing by 5.2 percent and exceeding 2019 figures by more than 16 percent.
“These figures demonstrate the enduring strength of the Caribbean brand and the continued global demand for authentic Caribbean experiences,” Gooding-Edghill said.
Looking ahead, he noted that CTO projections for the remainder of 2026 remain cautiously optimistic. He cited improved air connectivity, stronger regional cooperation, and growing demand for experience-driven travel as key factors expected to support continued growth.
“We anticipate moderate but steady growth,” he said. “But while the outlook remains positive, we cannot afford complacency. Competitiveness must be continuously protected, strengthened, and modernized.”
The CTO chairman emphasized the importance of diversifying source markets, particularly as the region seeks to reduce its dependence on traditional tourism markets.
He identified Latin America as a rapidly growing opportunity for Caribbean tourism, driven by geographic proximity, expanding airline connections, and increasing demand for multi-destination travel experiences.
“This is no longer simply an emerging opportunity; it is an accelerating one,” Gooding-Edghill said.
He also pointed to increasing engagement with African markets through cultural partnerships, diaspora connections, and future airlift opportunities, describing Africa as an important long-term growth frontier for the region’s tourism industry.
Tourism continues to serve as a critical pillar of many Caribbean economies, generating employment, investment, entrepreneurship, and economic opportunities throughout the region.
“It connects our cultures to the world and allows the world to experience the richness of the Caribbean spirit,” Gooding-Edghill said.
While acknowledging challenges posed by geopolitical developments and rising global costs, he stressed that the Caribbean has repeatedly demonstrated resilience in the face of adversity.
“Each crisis makes us stronger and more resilient,” he said. “It is our responsibility as Ministers of Tourism and partners to continue guiding the Caribbean Tourism Organization and ensuring that the millions of people who depend on tourism for their livelihoods can look to the future with confidence.”
Gooding-Edghill concluded by urging regional stakeholders to remain united and forward-looking.
“This is a region with serious talent, serious resilience, and serious ambition,” he said. “If we remain united, disciplined, and focused on the future, there is absolutely no limit to what the Caribbean can achieve together.”
