New task force aims to boost local benefits from tourism

The Ministry of Tourism has established a new Visitor Spend Task Force aimed at ensuring more Barbadians benefit directly from the country’s main economic sector.Tourism Minister Ian Gooding-Edghill made the announcement on today during the opening of Connect Barbados 2025, stating that the initiative seeks to increase the portion of visitor spending that reaches small businesses, attractions, and communities.

“The overarching goal of this initiative is to ensure that every aspect of the visitor journey, from accommodation and dining to cultural engagement and community experiences translate into meaningful and widespread economic benefit,” he said.

The task force, which has been in operation for the past two months, will look at how to create new ways for tourists to spend, especially in areas that have been left out of the traditional tourism model.

Gooding-Edghill said there are also plans to improve and expand Barbados’ tourism offerings through more authentic, high-impact attractions.

He provided an update on airlift as well, noting that Barbados continues to receive growing support from international and regional carriers. He added that efforts are ongoing to secure additional routes, while the country also works to strengthen ties with emerging markets such as Africa, the Middle East, and Asia. (SM)