More tourism standards in the works

In 2025 and 2026, the St. Vincent and the Grenadines Tourism Authority (SVGTA) will seek to implement more tourism standards while updating the ones that already exist.

Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the SVGTA, Annette Mark, explained on Saturday, November 30, 2024, that the SVGTA, established in 2009, has the responsibility of promoting the country as a tourist destination, developing standards, and regulating the quality of local tourism service providers.

She said in this regard, the SVGTA has plans to bring other service providers in the industry under their umbrella as they develop additional standards and seek to improve the current standards.

“We will undertake the exercise to benchmark ourselves with other countries providing similar services in the tourism sector. It is important that we continue to strive to be ahead of the game and to be competitive in the tourism industry,” Mark told a gathering at the 2024 Tourism Award and Cocktail ceremony which was held at Beachcombers Hotel, Villa.

The CEO said the SVGTA has started discussions with Cuba, “where we will be hosting a technical mission to assist with hospitality training in areas such as bar services, butchering, housekeeping, and commercial service food preparation to name a few.”

She said that the SVGTA is also hoping to take steps to implement three already developed tourism service standards, namely, the national standard for sites and attraction; code of practice for spa and wellness; and code of practice for vending of tourism craft and merchandise.

Commenting on the 34 awards handed out last Saturday, the CEO said the awards highlight those who lead by example and can inspire their peers and enhance visitor experience.

She said recognising the various stakeholders in the tourism industry is important as the growth of the industry is fuelled by the persons who work in the sector.

Mark noted also that achieving certification through the SVGTA is no small feat, and is a testament of commitment to quality, safety and sustainability, and that certification recognizes a promise to deliver exceptional experiences.

“Certified stakeholders are true ambassadors for St Vincent and the Grenadines… compliance with standards ensures that St Vincent and the Grenadines will remain competitive and attractive in the global marketplace where excellence is expected and required,” Mark said, while noting that her organization understands the journey for excellence is not one that can be taken alone, and collaboration has been and will continue to be the cornerstone of success.

She said as well that the authorities will remain steadfast in their commitment to support stakeholders, and must work together to build an industry that meets and exceeds the expectation of visitors who come to experience SVG.

“Dedication reflects positively on the tourism product and contributes to visitors’ lasting memories…Continued efforts will ensure that St Vincent and the Grenadines stands out as a must visit destination,” adding that the tourism sector is ever evolving, and with that comes the opportunity to innovate and grow.

“Let’s continue to strive for sustainability, inclusivity and excellence in all we do, as compliance with high standards enhances the country’s offerings and fosters economic growth and community development,” Mark said.

The award ceremony is an annual event by the Ministry of Tourism, the SVG Tourism Authority (SVGTA), and the SVG Hotel and Tourism Association (SVGHTA).