Barbados has been selected as the host destination for the 2027 Caribbean Travel Marketplace (CTM), one of the Caribbean's most significant annual tourism industry events. According to Antigua.news, the announcement was made during this year's Caribbean Travel Marketplace held in Antigua and Barbuda, with regional tourism leaders citing Barbados' strong reputation and continued leadership within the Caribbean tourism sector.
Organized by the Caribbean Hotel and Tourism Association (CHTA), the Caribbean Travel Marketplace is the region's premier business-to-business tourism gathering. The event brings together tourism suppliers, hotels, attractions, transportation providers and destination representatives with international buyers through pre-arranged meetings designed to generate business opportunities and strengthen industry partnerships.
The 2027 edition carries added significance as it will mark the 45th Caribbean Travel Marketplace — a milestone expected to draw strong participation from tourism stakeholders across the region and international markets.
CHTA Chief Executive Officer Vanessa Ledesma said Barbados has played an important leadership role in Caribbean tourism and within the association for many years. She noted that organizers are planning a reimagined and elevated experience for attendees, featuring innovative formats and expanded opportunities for global business engagement.
Barbados Minister of Tourism and International Transport Ian Gooding-Edghill described the selection as an important opportunity for the island and a reflection of confidence in the country's tourism product, people and infrastructure. He said the event is expected to generate economic benefits, strengthen regional collaboration and further reinforce Barbados' standing as a leading Caribbean destination.
The Barbados Hotel and Tourism Association also welcomed the news. Chairman Javon Griffith said the event provides an ideal platform to showcase Barbados to the world while creating opportunities to strengthen business relationships and advance tourism development across the region.
With preparations now underway, Barbados is expected to welcome hundreds of tourism professionals, industry leaders and international buyers for what promises to be one of the Caribbean's most significant tourism events in recent years.
