Business Stakeholders Say Opportunities Could Result from CARICOM Heads of Government Conference

Jamaica is gearing up to host a major regional event that promises to bring new opportunities for the country and the wider Caribbean.

The 49th CARICOM Heads of Government Conference will be held from July 6 to 8 at the Montego Bay Convention Centre (MBCC), bringing together leaders from across the Caribbean to discuss common challenges and explore ways to grow and strengthen the region.

For many business stakeholders in the host city and tourism capital, Montego Bay, St. James, the conference is not just about talk. It is about action, collaboration, and creating opportunities that benefit everyone, especially in tourism, which is vital for Jamaica’s economy.

When Caribbean countries work together, they can attract more visitors, improve transportation links, and promote their shared culture and natural beauty.

Area Chairperson for the Jamaica Hotel and Tourist Association (JHTA), Montego Bay Chapter, Kerry Ann Quallo Casserly, has been an active voice in advocating for regional cooperation.

“CARICOM is our regional family. It’s about us coming together to find solutions to our common problems and to grow stronger as a region,” she tells JIS News in an interview.

She explains that for Jamaica, hosting this summit is a chance to highlight what makes the island special, its friendly people, vibrant culture, and stunning attractions, and to show that Jamaica is ready to welcome more visitors from around the world.

CARICOM, or the Caribbean Community and Common Market, is a group of 15 Caribbean countries working together to promote economic integration, cooperation, and development.

Formally established by the Treaty of Chaguaramas, Trinidad and Tobago on July 4, 1973, and which became effective a month later on August 1, its goals include improving trade and investment, coordinating policies, and fostering regional stability.

For Jamaica, being the host of this important gathering is a chance to showcase its leadership and commitment to regional unity.

New CARICOM Chairman, Jamaica’s Prime Minister, Dr. the Most Hon. Andrew Holness, will lead the discussions, which are expected to focus on economic recovery, sustainable development, and strengthening tourism – the backbone of the Caribbean economy.

Dr. Holness takes over from Barbadian Prime Minister, Mia Mottley.

The conference’s location at the MBCC, the largest convention centre in the English-speaking Caribbean, is no coincidence. It demonstrates Jamaica’s capacity to host large-scale international events, which can bring direct benefits to local businesses and communities.

“Hosting such a high-profile event puts Jamaica in the spotlight. It’s an opportunity to attract not just the delegates attending the conference but also future visitors who see Jamaica as a world-class event destination,” says Mrs. Quallo Casserly.

Deputy Executive Chairman of Chukka Caribbean Adventures, John Byles, believes the summit will help promote tourism activities like eco-adventures, waterfalls, and outdoor experiences.

“This is a perfect platform to showcase what Jamaica offers in terms of adventure tourism. When our leaders promote the region, more travellers will come to enjoy our beaches, zip lines, and natural attractions, which means more income and jobs for local communities,” he tells JIS News.

Owner of the popular restaurant, Smokeez, in Rose Hall, St. James, Lowell Spence, emphasises that regional cooperation can boost the hospitality sector.

When Caribbean countries promote each other’s attractions, it encourages tourists to explore more than just one island. That’s good for restaurants, hotels, and local workers,” he explains.

Owner of Garfield’s Diving in Ocho Rios and Montego Bay, Garfield Dussard, says that marine tourism can grow through regional efforts.

“Our reefs and beaches are world-class. More collaborations mean more divers and snorkellers will visit, which benefits everyone involved in marine adventures,” he notes.

Meanwhile, representing the transport sector, Allan Brown, stresses the importance of better travel links between Caribbean countries.

“We need more flights and boat services that connect our islands. Making it easier for tourists to visit multiple islands on one trip will increase their spending and length of stay, which benefits our economies,” he says.

The conference will also focus on preserving Caribbean culture – from Jamaica’s reggae and food festivals to Trinidad’s carnival and Guyana’s heritage. Promoting these cultural assets can make the region more attractive to tourists seeking authentic experiences.

Environmental sustainability is another key issue. The Caribbean’s natural beauty – its beaches, reefs, and rainforests – is what draws millions of visitors each year. Leaders will discuss ways to protect these assets while still growing tourism.

“We want to grow, but not at the expense of our environment. We need to ensure future generations can enjoy the same natural beauty that brings tourists here now,” says Mrs. Quallo Casserly.

“For Jamaica, hosting this regional summit is a chance to shine on the world stage. It demonstrates the country’s leadership and readiness to host major international events. It also opens doors for more visitors, more business opportunities, and a stronger economy,” she tells JIS News.