The Organisation of Eastern Caribbean States (OECS) is taking a significant step forward in enhancing the resilience and competitiveness of its tourism sector. A recent two-day Regional Consultation in Antigua and Barbuda convened by the OECS Tourism Policy Regional Task Force has laid the groundwork for a new common Tourism Policy aimed at addressing the current challenges and unlocking the potential of the tourism industry within the member states.
This initiative, supported by the World Bank through its Unleashing the Blue Economy Project, aims to revise the OECS Common Tourism Policy with an added focus on the blue economy. The updated policy is expected to promote sustainable tourism development, incorporating climate-smart and resilience strategies to ensure a thriving and equitable tourism sector across the OECS.
The consultation saw the participation of Regional Permanent Secretaries and Senior Technical Officers from the Ministries of Tourism, who engaged in collaborative discussions to envision the future of regional tourism. The revised policy will advocate for greater community participation, balanced growth, and increased benefits to local communities, in line with the Revised Treaty of Basseterre.
Director General of the OECS, Dr. Didacus Jules, emphasized the policy’s role in supporting competitiveness and introducing new opportunities, particularly within the blue economy. Meanwhile, Colin James, CEO of the Antigua and Barbuda Tourism Authority, highlighted the economic benefits of a collective approach to tourism development.
The Regional Task Force reviewed initial findings from national stakeholder consultations and worked towards crafting a vision and mission for the new policy. The revised OECS Common Tourism Policy will direct the OECS Commission’s tourism initiatives and assist governments in tourism development over the next five years, focusing on sustainable and climate-smart strategies.
The Unleashing the Blue Economy Project, funded by the World Bank, seeks to harmonize regulations and enhance cooperation among OECS Member States to address transboundary issues like fisheries, tourism, and marine waste management. The project aims to establish the OECS as a benchmark for the blue economy, attracting international support and sustainable investments.
As the OECS moves forward with this ambitious project, the region is poised to benefit from a more resilient, competitive, and sustainable tourism industry, contributing to the overall economic growth and well-being of its communities.
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