Caribbean Tourism Organization Secretary-General and CEO Dona Regis-Prosper will deliver the keynote address at the 2026 Caribbean Food Forum, set for Thursday, May 21 in Antigua. According to Antigua News Room, the forum will be held both virtually and in-person at the John E. St. Luce Finance and Conference Center.
The event is hosted by the Antigua and Barbuda Tourism Authority (ABTA) and presented by Grace Foods, forming a centrepiece of Antigua and Barbuda's Annual Culinary Month. This year's theme — "The Future Is Local: Caribbean Food at the Crossroads of Global Impact" — frames a one-day gathering of leaders across tourism, agriculture, culinary arts, hospitality and investment.
Regis-Prosper's keynote will examine regenerative tourism, sustainable food systems and the Caribbean's role in the global food economy. Narendra Ramgulam, CTO's Deputy Director of Sustainable Tourism, will also address the hybrid event, focusing on agritourism and destination branding as drivers of Caribbean economic growth.
ABTA CEO Colin C. James described the forum as a strategic step forward for the region. "The Caribbean Food Forum is a timely and strategic initiative that aligns with our vision for sustainable tourism development," James said. "Elevating our food systems and connecting them to global opportunity strengthens the value of our destination while creating immersive cultural visitor experiences, and meaningful pathways for local and regional producers and entrepreneurs."
The programme includes three strategic panel discussions covering climate resilience, agritourism, diaspora engagement and food entrepreneurship. A lunch and marketplace experience will showcase local producers, culinary artisans and Caribbean brands. Additional sessions will explore technology, sustainability and global market access.
Donyelle Bird-Browne, USA Senior Business Development Manager for Strategic Partnerships and one of the forum's organisers, said the event is built for impact. "CTO's participation and endorsement underscores the critical role of food systems in shaping the future of Caribbean tourism and economic resilience," Bird-Browne said. "This platform is designed to move beyond just conversation, and bring together policy, innovation, culture, and investment to open the doors to tangible opportunities for the region."
Organisers expect the forum to produce a white paper containing key recommendations and actionable roadmaps for regional collaboration.
Registration is open until Tuesday, May 19. Participants may register online at https://us06web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_pC0oONwQRsiix3jNGXyTvw or by contacting the Antigua and Barbuda Tourism Authority at 1-268-562-7600. Additional information on Antigua and Barbuda Culinary Month is available at https://www.antiguabarbudaculinarymonth.com/.
