Minister of State in the Ministry of Tourism Michael Freeland led arrival and meet-and-greet activities at Sir V.C. Bird International Airport on Sunday as Antigua and Barbuda began welcoming delegates for the 44th Annual Caribbean Travel Marketplace.
The regional tourism event, scheduled for May 12–15, will bring together tourism leaders, suppliers, buyers, and industry stakeholders from across the Caribbean and major international markets for several days of business meetings, networking, and strategic tourism engagement.
Among those personally welcomed by Minister Freeland were Anguilla's Minister of Tourism, Cardigan Connor, and Anguilla Director of Tourism Chantelle Richardson.
Freeland's hands-on involvement in the delegate arrivals signals the government's commitment to ensuring visitors receive a strong first impression of the country's hospitality.
"Antigua and Barbuda is proud to host the Caribbean Travel Marketplace for the second consecutive year, and the economic impact of this event cannot be overstated," Minister Freeland said. "From our hotels and restaurants to transportation providers, small businesses, vendors, and tourism partners, Marketplace creates direct opportunities for economic activity, investment, and regional exposure. Hosting this prestigious event once again reinforces confidence in Antigua and Barbuda as a premier tourism destination and demonstrates our capacity to successfully deliver world-class experiences on both the regional and international stage."
Organised by the Caribbean Hotel and Tourism Association (CHTA), Caribbean Travel Marketplace is regarded as the Caribbean's leading tourism marketing event, connecting tourism businesses with key buyers and decision-makers to strengthen partnerships and drive growth across the region's tourism sector.
Antigua and Barbuda's selection as host destination for a second consecutive year reflects the country's growing influence within the regional tourism industry and its proven track record in staging major international events.
The Ministry of Tourism, the Antigua and Barbuda Hotels and Tourism Association, and a broad cross-section of public and private sector stakeholders are continuing preparations to deliver what organisers are billing as an exceptional Marketplace experience, with a focus on showcasing the best of Antigua and Barbuda's culture, hospitality, and tourism product.
