A comprehensive report on the state of the tourism industry in Antigua and
Barbuda was unveiled on Thursday at a special gathering of industry partners and
media representatives.
The report was a joint undertaking of the Ministry of Tourism, the Antigua and
Barbuda Tourism Authority, the Antigua and Barbuda Hotels and Tourist
Association (ABHTA) and the Antigua and Barbuda Workers Union, which
represents the vast majority of workers in the industry.
Using a multi-media format as well as booklet, the officials indicated that the state
of the industry is generally good with improvements on the horizon.
Tourism Minister the Honourable Charles Fernandez provided an overview of
developments taking place in the key sectors of airlines (air-lifts), hotels
(accommodation) as well as future developments. The minister also unveiled what
he dubbed Vision 2032, which is a ten-year development plan for the industry.
“Our vision for the tourism industry, simply put, is for all partners inclusive of the
citizens and residents of our twin-island nation to buy into the policies and plans
set forth that would keep the industry on a positive trajectory. A key component to
this is Vision 2032 – Vision 2032 strives through partnership to actively contribute
towards ensuring that the industry is sustained while benefiting all,” he remarked.
The minister also- highlighted five crucial focus areas for the destination's
development. These areas encompass sustainability, the creation of authentic local
experiences, the establishment of a robust legislative and policy framework,
investment in a highly skilled workforce, and the cultivation of an industry that
benefits all Antiguans and Barbudans through economic linkages.
In his remarks, President of the ABHTI, Craig Marshall of Royalton
Resort, stressed the importance of advancing the tourism industry by concentrating
on key factors, particularly bolstering airlift, especially from primary source
markets like the UK. He pointed out that a reduction in flights from the UK during
the past summer significantly impacted the performance of many ABHTA
members. Marshall emphasized the need to prioritize sustained airlift during the
summer months for the destination's year-round success.
He disclosed that the ABHTA has embarked on a significant mission for the
upcoming year – the re-imaging of the hospitality sector.
The ABWU representative, Chester Hughes, spoke of the need for tripartism
noting that if tourism is every body’s business as the slogan says then workers, the
backbone of the industry must share equitable in the proceeds of the industry. He
also raised issues of continued learning for workers as well as issues related to the
absence of a public transportation system.
ABTA Chief Executive Officer, Colin C. James highlighted that “Key to our airlift
strategy is the need to balance airlift with the growth in room stock and demand for
the destination. For the 2024, winter season, Antigua and Barbuda will benefit
from increased service out of the USA, Canada and the Caribbean. New flights are
also expected, with Silver Airways scheduled to begin servicing the destination as
of November 16.”
