Tourism

As efforts to restore macroeconomic stability and diversify Trinidad and Tobago’s economy gather pace, the political emphasis on tourism is likely to continue, along with increasing private sector pressure to boost marketing. Tourism contributed 2.9% of GDP in 2016, generating $806.4m. The mixed performance of recent years could continue in the near term. However, the sector is expected to undergo significant change in the medium term, with private stakeholders leading the way. Examples include ride-hailing app Uber launching in Trinidad in January 2017, the presence of homestay network Airbnb and Sandals’ proposed site in Tobago. Long term, a move towards an open skies agreement, coupled with incentives for firms to move into the regional travel niche, presents a vital opportunity to unleash immense potential.

This chapter contains an interview with Adam Stewart, Deputy Chairman and CEO, Sandals Resorts International.