Newly appointed Minister of State in the Ministry of Tourism, Honourable Michael Freeland, has hit the ground running ahead of CHTA Caribbean Travel Marketplace 2026, joining tourism officials and stakeholders at Sir V.C. Bird International Airport on Sunday, May 10, for meet and greet activities and delegate arrivals.
With Antigua and Barbuda proudly hosting the 44th Annual Caribbean Travel Marketplace which runs from May 12-15, Minister Freeland’s presence at the airport highlighted the government’s commitment to ensuring a warm and memorable welcome for regional and international delegates attending the Caribbean’s leading tourism marketing event.
Arriving delegates were greeted with the signature hospitality of Antigua and Barbuda as the destination prepares for a week of business meetings, networking, and tourism engagement. Minister Freeland took the opportunity to personally welcome Tourism Minister for Anguilla; Honourable Cardigan Connor, and Mrs. Chantelle Richardson Director of Tourism for Anguilla.
“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 and regional exposure. Hosting this prestigious event again reinforces confidence in Antigua and Barbuda as a premier tourism destination and demonstrates our capacity to successfully deliver world-class experiences on the regional and international stage”.
Organized by the Caribbean Hotel and Tourism Association, Caribbean Travel Marketplace brings together tourism suppliers and buyers from across the region and key international markets to conduct business and strengthen partnerships that drive Caribbean tourism forward.
Antigua and Barbuda’s selection as host destination underscores its growing prominence within the regional tourism industry and its ability to successfully stage major international events.
The Ministry of Tourism, the Antigua and Barbuda Hotels and Tourism Association in collaboration with public and private sector stakeholders, continues preparations to deliver an exceptional Marketplace experience that highlights the best of Antigua and Barbuda.
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