Tourism Industry Stakeholders’ Conference set for September 15

THE MINISTRY OF Tourism, Civil Aviation, Sustainable Development and Culture, in collaboration with the St. Vincent and the Grenadines Tourism Authority will host the ‘State of the Tourism Industry address and Stakeholders’ Conference’ on Monday, September, 15, 2025 under the theme: “Strength in Unity: Advancing the Vincentian Visitor Experience”.

The ministry said in a release that this annual forum serves as one of the most important gatherings of tourism leaders, stakeholders, and partners across St.Vincent and the Grenadines (SVG) and is designed to take stock of the industry’s performance, highlight challenges, and set the direction for growth in the coming year.

Minister of Tourism,Carlos James, will deliver the keynote ‘State of the Tourism Industry’ address, providing an update on the sector’s performance and announcing new initiatives to strengthen St Vincent and the Grenadines’ position in the global tourism market.

The event will bring together voices from across the industry- government, airlines, cruise lines, hoteliers, tour operators, community leaders, and youth representatives, ensuring that the Vincentian tourism product continues to evolve in a unified and sustainable manner.

“Tourism is not just one industry among many, it is a connector that impacts aviation, hospitality, culture, sport, and communities,” Minister James is quoted in the release as stating.

“ This conference provides a unique platform for all stakeholders to engage, collaborate, and help shape the future of tourism in St Vincent and the Grenadines.”

l In addition to remarks and cultural performances at the opening session, the event will feature two panel discussions the first of which is, ‘Translating Vision into Action: Stakeholders’ reflections on the Minister’s priorities, with emphasis on collaboration, financing, and community impact’; while the second panel is themed, ‘The Connected Journey: A deep dive into cruise, community tourism, and vacation partnerships’ and will feature executives from cruise lines, airlines, hotels and community leaders.

l A presentation on the Coastal and Beach Vending Bill, with question and answer engagement will be examined. Also listed is a youth panel – ‘Next Gen, Next Level: A showcase of youth perspectives on enhancing SVG’s tourism product’ featuring the Junior Minister of Tourism, hospitality students, and young entrepreneurs from the creative sector.

The Ministry of Tourism, in encouraging participation, said the conference provides a rare opportunity for stakeholders to gain first-hand insights on the current state and future direction of tourism in SVG; participate in panel discussions that address connectivity, product development, service standards, and cultural integration; network with local and international industry leaders; and engage with and hear from the next generation of Vincentians shaping the future of the sector.