GEORGETOWN, Guyana, Sept 3, CMC – Guyana President Irfaan Ali will deliver the keynote address at next month’s Caribbean Tourism Organisation’s (CTO) State of the Tourism Industry Conference (SOTIC), which will focus on the future of Caribbean tourism amid changing technology, climate pressures and evolving traveller expectations.
SOTIC 2026 will be held in Georgetown, for the first time, from October 5–9, under the theme “Tourism Futures: Smart, Sustainable and Inclusive”.
President Ali’s keynote will frame discussions on how Caribbean destinations can harness innovation and technology, strengthen environmental and economic resilience, and ensure tourism growth creates meaningful opportunities for communities across the region.
“President Ali’s participation brings an important dimension to SOTIC at a time when we are asking fundamental questions about what the future of Caribbean tourism should look like,” said Dona Regis-Prosper, secretary-general and CEO of CTO.
“He brings the perspective not only of a regional head of government but also of a leader who understands sustainable tourism and its connection to national development. As we explore a future that is smarter, more sustainable and more inclusive, his voice will help set the stage for the bold thinking and collaborative action our region needs.”
Guyana’s Minister of Tourism, Industry and Commerce Susan Rodrigues said hosting SOTIC and welcoming regional and international tourism leaders to Georgetown presents an opportunity to advance the Caribbean tourism conversation while showcasing Guyana’s evolving visitor economy.
“We are honoured to welcome President Ali to deliver the keynote address and to host the Caribbean tourism community here in Guyana,” said Minister Rodrigues.
“The conference theme speaks directly to the kind of tourism future we are working to build — one that embraces innovation, protects what makes our destinations distinctive and ensures that the benefits of tourism reach our people and communities. Guyana is proud to provide the setting for this important regional dialogue.”
Guyana has placed sustainable tourism, biodiversity conservation and community participation at the centre of its tourism development strategy while pursuing broader economic diversification and investment in the sector.
SOTIC is CTO’s principal forum for bringing together tourism ministers, commissioners and directors of tourism, private-sector executives, regional and international partners, academics, media, young people and other industry stakeholders to examine issues shaping Caribbean tourism.
The 2026 programme will focus on data, tourism intelligence, innovation, emerging technology, climate resilience and regenerative tourism, destination competitiveness, inclusive growth and the role of the region’s next generation of tourism leaders.
CTO business meetings will take place October 5–6, followed by the main SOTIC conference on October 7–8, including the Regional Tourism Youth Congress on October 8. Destination Media Briefings will conclude the week on October 9.
CMC/ed/2026