Caribbean Travel Marketplace Set for Antigua and Barbuda in May 2025
by Karen Rollins Apr 7, 2025
The 43rd Caribbean Travel Marketplace (CTM) will be held in Antigua and Barbuda from 18-22 May 2025.
The annual Caribbean tourism event, which attracts global buyers and regional suppliers, will feature an expanded and “dynamic” programme of activities this year, according to the Caribbean Hotel and Tourism Association (CHTA).
The schedule includes ‘Responsible Tourism Day’ on 18 May, highlighting the importance of sustainable tourism practices through community engagement activities, and ‘The Caribbean Travel Forum’ on 19 May which engages public and private sector representatives on critical issues in regional tourism.
The Caribbean MICE (Meeting and Incentive Travel Exchange) will also return with a new component to the programme – a Direct Booking Summit on 22 May focused on maximising direct online bookings using the latest technology and trends in digital marketing and Artificial Intelligence.
Chair of the Antigua and Barbuda Hotels & Tourism Association, Carig Marshall, said staging the event was “an incredible opportunity” for Antigua and Barbuda “to be on full display to industry leaders, potential investors, and key stakeholders in the global tourism sector.”
He stated: “Hosting such a prestigious event not only places us at the centre of regional attention but also brings significant economic benefits. The influx of visitors, media coverage, and business engagements will provide a substantial boost to our local economy, create new opportunities for our tourism and hospitality sectors, and further solidifying Antigua and Barbuda as a premier destination in the Caribbean. We look forward to showcasing the unique charm, culture, and hospitality that make our islands truly special.”
Chief executive officer at the CHTA, Vanessa Ledesma, added: “Caribbean Travel Marketplace is more than just a trade event—it’s a catalyst for business growth, collaboration, and innovation in our region’s tourism industry.”
“As we bring Marketplace to Antigua and Barbuda for the very first time, we are excited to create new opportunities for our members, to strengthen global partnerships, and to showcase the diversity of the Caribbean hospitality and tourism product. With many new program elements, CTM 2025 will be a pivotal moment in our industry’s continued evolution.”
The main venue for the conference activities will be the American University of Antigua, a new, state-of-the-art conference facility.
