In 2026, Belize, along with other Caribbean nations like Antigua and Barbuda, the Bahamas, St. Maarten, and Jamaica, will host significant tourism trade events aimed at revitalizing the region’s travel industry. These gatherings will serve as a vital platform for showcasing the Caribbean’s diverse culture, luxury travel options, sustainable tourism practices, and breathtaking landscapes, establishing the region as a premier destination for global travellers.
Belize’s stunning beaches, rainforests, and rich heritage are set to attract significant attention during these events. As global travel recovers, Belize and its Caribbean allies are eager to connect with tourism buyers, investors, and industry professionals, enhancing collaboration and fostering economic growth in the region. The upcoming tourism trade events promise to spotlight the Caribbean’s readiness to reforge its place on the global travel map.
Antigua and Barbuda will once again host the Caribbean Travel Marketplace (CTM) from May 12 to 15, 2026. This pivotal event is expected to draw a vast array of buyers and suppliers from around the world, focusing on building partnerships to expand the Caribbean tourism sector. With enhanced accommodations and venues, Antigua’s reputation for hosting exceptional meetings puts it in the spotlight as a leader in Caribbean tourism.
Cuba will also play a crucial role in this tourism revival with the 44th International Tourism Fair (FITCuba 2026), scheduled for May 6 to 10, 2026. Taking place at the Plaza América Convention Center in Varadero, this event will highlight Cuba’s tourist attractions, promoting not only its sandy beaches but also its cultural heritage.
St. Maarten is preparing for SMART 2026, a regional trade show set for late June, uniting tourism businesses from both Dutch and French territories of the island. This collaborative event will offer networking opportunities and promote sustainable tourism initiatives, reinforcing the region’s long-term commitment to eco-friendly practices amidst recovery efforts.
While the Dominican Republic has not yet announced specific events for 2026, its strong history in hosting tourism exchanges suggests that future announcements may emerge, keeping an eye on industry developments.
Meanwhile, Jamaica will continue to focus on nurturing its tourism connections and enhancing air travel as it prepares for future growth beyond the Jamaica Product Exchange (JAPEX). Similar recovery-focused initiatives are seen in Barbados, which is honing in on improving tourism infrastructure while hosting smaller festivals and events.
In the Bahamas, rather than large trade shows, the emphasis will be on cultural festivals and local heritage events aimed at celebrating tourism within communities. Belize will concentrate on sustainable tourism, progressing initiatives that promote public-private partnerships and bolster tourism security without making substantial trade event plans for 2026. Trinidad and Tobago will also pivot towards niche conferences, showcasing its unique cultural offerings through smaller events.
As smaller Caribbean nations participate in regional fairs, they remain committed to collaboration, joining larger events like CTM 2026 and SMART 2026 for better visibility and engagement in the tourism marketplace.
As the Caribbean anticipates these pivotal events in 2026, the region’s spirit of resilience and innovation shines through. With a focus on sustainability, collaboration, and enhancement of travel experiences, the Caribbean is ready to welcome global visitors with open arms, promising an exciting and transformative year ahead.