Guyana Lands Historic Bid to Host 2026 State of the Tourism Industry Conference
In a landmark decision for South American tourism, the Caribbean Tourism Organization (CTO) has named Guyana as the host for the 2026 State of the Tourism Industry Conference (SOTIC). The selection marks the first time the nation will stage the prestigious flagship event, scheduled to take place in the capital city of Georgetown from October 5 to 9, 2026.
The conference is regarded as the premier gathering for regional leaders, drawing hundreds of international delegates, policymakers, and journalists. For Guyana, the event represents a strategic pivot toward the MICE tourism sector—an industry acronym for Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions. Minister of Tourism, Industry and Commerce Susan Rodrigues hailed the move as a significant milestone that reflects surging regional confidence in Guyana’s leadership.
Under the 2026 organizational theme, "One Caribbean: Infinite Experiences," the summit will focus on community-centered tourism and sustainable development. CTO Secretary-General Dona Regis-Prosper noted that Guyana serves as a prime example of this vision, offering a rare blend of ecotourism, adventure, and deep-rooted cultural heritage. The conference is expected to leverage these assets to illustrate how the region can build an inclusive and future-ready tourism model.
The decision to move the conference to Georgetown follows a successful session in Barbados, where the industry focused on reimagining Caribbean tourism through research and relevance. By bringing SOTIC to Guyana, the CTO is signaling a broader geographic focus, acknowledging the country’s aggressive infrastructure investments and its rapid emergence as a dynamic destination within the traditional Caribbean circuit.
Economic experts suggest that hosting such a high-profile event will provide a massive boost to Guyana's business travel profile. The summit provides a global stage to showcase the country’s business facilities and hospitality readiness. Beyond the immediate economic impact of the delegation, the long-term goal is to cement Guyana’s reputation as a major player in high-value, specialized travel segments.
Key discussions during the October summit are expected to tackle innovation, resilience, and the ongoing sustainable development of the Caribbean’s most vital economic engine. As the industry faces shifting global demands, the Guyana-hosted SOTIC will serve as the principal forum for shaping the future direction of the region, emphasizing data-driven solutions and regional collaboration.
While specific venue details and registration deadlines are still being finalized by the Guyana Tourism Authority, the announcement has already generated significant buzz among industry stakeholders. The 2026 conference is poised to be a transformative moment, shifting the spotlight to the mainland and highlighting the diversity of the Caribbean experience.
