NEW YORK, CMC – Chairman of the Caribbean Tourism Organisation Kenneth Bryan has called international investors to join the sustainable tourism development movement.
Bryan, also the Tourism Minister of the Cayman Islands, was addressing the inaugural USA-Caribbean Investment Forum in New York.
Bryan, who was speaking on behalf of the 25 nations and member territories of CTO, said the region has long been admired for its pristine beaches, crystal-clear waters, vibrant cultures, and warm people, making it an exceptional choice for investment.
However, he lamented the unique challenges, such as vulnerability to climate change, a reliance on imported fossil fuels, and the need for inclusive economic growth.
“Today’s travelers are increasingly conscious about the environment and actively seek destinations and properties that embrace sustainability and eco-friendliness.
“Sustainable tourism is, therefore, not just a buzzword; it is a commitment that Caribbean leaders are taking seriously,” Bryan remarked.
He invited the attending investors to become part of the Caribbean story of economic growth, community empowerment, sustainability, and unforgettable travel experiences while contributing to the sustainable tourism development movement through projects that embrace environmentally responsible practices, such as energy-efficient designs, waste reduction, and reliable water management.
The Caribbean leader reported that sustainable tourism and renewable energy are two sectors on the forefront for growth and was encouraged that G20 leaders recently committed to scaling up financing for these as well as other sustainable development goals.
“As Caribbean leaders, while we welcome foreign direct investments, we remain committed to ensuring that investments in our tourism industries benefit the local population and create a positive social impact,” he added.
Sustainable tourism goes beyond greener initiatives and should also contribute to the local economy, which supports the Caribbean’s culture and traditions. It also provides a unique selling proposition in keeping with the recognition that countries should focus on attracting foreign direct investments in sectors that advance their national development objectives.
The two-day USA-Caribbean Investment Forum, organized by the Caribbean Association of Investment Promotion Agencies (CAIPA), was held under the theme “Partnering for Sustained Development in the Caribbean.”
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