St. Vincent: 75 % Growth in Tourism, The Highest in the Caribbean St. Vincent and the Grenadines . Photo: Pixabay St. Vincent and the Grenadines (SVG) has outpaced all Caribbean destinations in U.S. tourism growth, achieving a staggering 74.8% increase in American visitors during the first quarter of 2025 compared to 2024 – the highest jump in the region. The announcement came from Tourism Minister Carlos James following the Caribbean Tourism Organization’s (CTO) Caribbean Week in New York (June 1-8), where the island’s exceptional performance was highlighted in regional reports. Among 11 Caribbean destinations reporting U.S. market growth, SVG dominated, followed by: Curaçao (23.5%) Barbados (22%) Antigua (12.4%) “These numbers reflect SVG’s strategic transformation into a globally competitive destination,” Minister James stated. “Through innovation, data-driven marketing, and strong partnerships, we’re delivering unforgettable experiences while driving economic growth.” SVG’s tourism success extends beyond the U.S. market: 12.8% overall Q1 growth across all markets (3rd regionally behind Curaçao at 16.6% [...]

Caribbean Economies are looking beyond the Tourism Sector Photo: Shutterstock Economic headwinds and global instability have forced many in the Caribbean to recognise the importance of economic diversification. Recent tariffs have become the catalyst for pivoting away from some of the region’s core revenue streams - tourism and citizenship by investment (CBI) programmes - which are increasingly coming under threat. Tourism is a central component in almost every Caribbean economy. Despite its importance, economies cannot rely on the sector alone. Should the region want to develop faster and more sustainably, it must seek additional revenue streams and in particular those driven by foreign direct investment (FDI). Island nations have realised that in today’s economic climate, overreliance on tourism revenue limits their economic potential. Instead, what is required are long-term sustainable projects not tied to the tourism season, including but not limited to an expansion of energy and transport infrastructure [...]

Europe premieres first ‘Caribbean Days’ in Paris The inaugural edition of Caribbean Days — Journees des Caraibes — in Paris kicked off a four-day series of business and cultural events to spotlight the region’s best. Following a successful first edition in Brussels in 2022, the Caribbean Chamber of Commerce in Europe (CCCE) decided June 2 – 6 would be an ideal period to celebrate the region. “We are thrilled to partner with this historic Parisian institution for the launch of Caribbean Days in France,” Jo Spalberg, CCCE secretary general and director said. To punctuate his contention, he reportedly cited the culinary and arts provisions, fashion, film, literature, music, and dance as initiatives to lure regional and international guests to the festivities. He added that premium items such as cocoa, coffee, rum, and spirits will enhance the showcases slated for La Maison we l’Amerique Latine. Members of the diplomatic and business communities [...]