Guyana is preparing to welcome tourism leaders from across the region when the Guyana Expo is held in Guyana this fall. Caribbean Tourism Board’s State of the Tourism Industry Conference For the first time.
It is better known as the Representative Regional Conference. sotikIt will be held in Pegasus Corporate Suite to Georgetown (October 5-9)It brings together hundreds of tourism officials, policy makers, journalists, youth representatives and private sector executives.
The annual gathering is the CTO’s main forum for reviewing the Caribbean tourism industry, from regional air connections and investments to sustainability, technology and destination development.
Guyana’s selection comes as the South American country (CARICOM seat) continues to expand its tourism sector with an increasing focus on nature, adventure, cultural heritage and business travel.
Guyana’s first
Susan Rodrigues, Guyana’s Minister of Tourism, Industry and Commerce, said the selection is a milestone for the country and a reflection of Guyana’s growing role in regional tourism discussions.
“This conference is the premier gathering of CTOs for Caribbean tourism leaders and will attract hundreds of regional and international delegates, positioning Guyana as a major player in the development of MICE tourism. MICE tourism is a specialized, high-value business travel sector focused on meetings, incentives, conferences and exhibitions,” said Rodrigues.
The conference will give Guyana the opportunity to showcase Georgetown’s expanding business facilities while also introducing delegates to Guyana’s extensive tourism offering.
Guyana has long been known for its rainforests, rivers, wildlife and indigenous communities. Kaieteur Falls, republic and the country’s interior eco-lodges. Hosting SOTIC puts these experiences in front of an influential audience of tourism decision-makers and international media.
Regional profile growth
Guyana’s tourism profile has risen with new hotel developments, infrastructure investment and increased international interest in the country.
The conference is also expected to support Georgetown’s meetings and events sector, filling hotel rooms and generating business for restaurants, transportation operators, travel agencies and local suppliers.
CTO Secretary General and CEO Donna Regis-Prosper Guyana said it reflects the organization’s focus on tourism experiences rooted in local communities.
The theme of CTO in 2026 is “One Caribbean: Infinite Experiences” It highlights the diverse culture, cuisine, nature and heritage found throughout the region.
“This event will allow Guyana to showcase its unique blend of ecotourism, adventure, cultural heritage and business facilities to a global audience, further raising Guyana’s profile within the Caribbean and beyond,” said Regis-Prosper.
local tourism forum
SOTIC typically includes ministerial discussions, research presentations, industry panels, youth programs and networking sessions involving representatives from the Caribbean region.
Topics frequently include aviation, investment, workforce development, sustainability, visitor trends and the use of new technologies within the tourism industry.
The Guyana meeting follows the most recent SOTIC. Barbadoswas held under the theme “Reimagining Caribbean Tourism: Research, Relevance and the Way Forward”.
The Georgetown Edition is expected to continue this conversation, giving Guyana a central role in the regional tourism agenda.
It will also allow delegates to experience a destination with a tourism identity that sets it apart from the traditional beach-centric Caribbean model.
With rainforest exploration, wildlife experiences, indigenous tourism and one of the world’s largest single waterfalls, Guyana is increasingly establishing itself as one of the region’s top adventure and eco-tourism destinations.
October will provide our biggest opportunity to bring these stories directly to the Caribbean tourism industry.
