Antigua and Barbuda to Drive Caribbean Tourism Growth at Caribbean Travel Marketplace 2026

Antigua and Barbuda will host the Caribbean’s premier tourism event, the Caribbean Travel Marketplace (CTM), from May 12 to 15, 2026, according to the announcement by the Caribbean Hotel & Tourism Association (CHTA). The 44th edition of the CTM is going to be held in this beautiful island nation, and this again adds to the already existing milestones in the international tourism sector of Antigua and Barbuda.

The Caribbean Travel Marketplace is renowned as the region’s largest tourism conference, connecting suppliers from across the Caribbean with global buyers to foster new business relationships and reinforce the region’s commitment to resilience and innovation. This year’s event will follow the success of the 2025 edition, highlighting Antigua and Barbuda’s leadership in Caribbean tourism and its commitment to advancing the region’s visitor economy.

A Strategic Destination for the Caribbean’s Largest Tourism Forum

The Caribbean Travel Marketplace serves as a vital platform for tourism professionals, offering opportunities for networking, business development, and showcasing the unique offerings of the Caribbean region. The event brings together tourism leaders, suppliers, and buyers from around the world, highlighting the strength and unity of Caribbean tourism.

Antigua and Barbuda’s selection as the host for CTM 2026 reaffirms its role as a dynamic player in the Caribbean’s tourism sector. The country’s ongoing efforts to enhance infrastructure, maintain exceptional service standards, and expand its appeal in the international meetings and incentives market have made it a top destination for major events.

Colin C. James, CEO of the Antigua and Barbuda Tourism Authority, expressed pride in the nation’s ability to host such a significant event. The CTM conference will not only bolster Antigua and Barbuda’s visibility on the global stage but also stimulate regional collaboration, further driving growth in Caribbean tourism.

A Focus on Regional Connectivity and Accessibility

A significant feature of CTM 2026 will be the focus on enhancing regional connectivity and ensuring accessibility for both business and leisure travel. Government partners, aviation stakeholders, and tourism officials will continue to work together to improve air links, making it easier and more affordable for international visitors to access the Caribbean.

For Antigua and Barbuda, CTM 2026 presents an excellent opportunity to showcase its airlift options and visitor access to other Caribbean destinations. With continued efforts to expand direct flights and improve connectivity, Antigua and Barbuda is positioning itself as a gateway to the wider Caribbean region, welcoming more international tourists and connecting them to neighbouring islands.

Strengthening the Meetings and Incentives Sector

Antigua and Barbuda’s success in hosting large-scale events, such as CTM and the OAS Conference, alongside its preparations for the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM), underscores the country’s growing stature as a prime destination for meetings and incentives. The island’s ability to host such prestigious gatherings highlights its world-class facilities and commitment to delivering exceptional experiences for global delegations and visitors.

Recently recognised as the Caribbean’s Best Meetings and Conference Destination by the World Travel Awards, Antigua and Barbuda continues to invest in its hospitality infrastructure, further cementing its position as a hub for business tourism and corporate events in the Caribbean. CTM 2026 will serve as another opportunity to showcase the island’s state-of-the-art conference venues, hotels, and event spaces, making it an attractive choice for future international conferences and corporate meetings.

Supporting Disaster Recovery and Regional Collaboration

In addition to promoting business and tourism, the Caribbean Hotel & Tourism Association (CHTA) has activated its Disaster Response Fund to support destinations affected by Hurricane Melissa. This initiative reflects the Caribbean’s collective strength, with tourism partners banding together to aid recovery efforts for impacted regions. This sense of unity and mutual support remains one of the Caribbean’s greatest assets, enabling the region to bounce back stronger after challenges.

For the tourism industry, the response to natural disasters and other setbacks highlights the resilience of Caribbean destinations, and CTM 2026 will offer an opportunity for the region to further demonstrate its recovery and long-term sustainability.

Antigua and Barbuda’s Continued Growth in Caribbean Tourism

Antigua and Barbuda’s hosting of the Caribbean Travel Marketplace in May 2026 marks an exciting chapter in the nation’s tourism journey. The event will not only showcase the island’s strengths as a tourism destination but also highlight its ongoing investments in infrastructure, service excellence, and regional partnerships.

As the Caribbean’s largest tourism forum, CTM will continue to provide valuable business opportunities, foster international connections, and promote the Caribbean’s collective resilience. With Antigua and Barbuda leading the charge in 2026, the future of Caribbean tourism looks bright, promising new opportunities for suppliers, buyers, and travellers alike.

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