AI in Hospitality Sector: Tourism Minister Highlights Both Benefits and Concerns
During the Caribbean AI Conference at the University of the West Indies’ Five Islands Campus, Antigua and Barbuda’s Tourism Minister Charles Fernandez discussed the impact of artificial intelligence (AI) on the regional hospitality sector.
He acknowledged the potential benefits of AI in improving visitor experiences through seamless service delivery, particularly during peak tourist seasons.
However, he also expressed concerns about potential job losses as a result of increased AI integration.
Fernandez emphasized the need for dialogue with unions and government intervention to address the potential impact on employment.
He suggested that collaboration with the unions and providing incentives to hotel owners to retain local employees could help mitigate job losses. Additionally, he stressed the importance of preparing citizens for a future where AI is integrated into everyday life.
Dr. Luz Longsworth, Senior Corporate Director at Sandals Corporate University, emphasized that while AI is being embraced by the resort, the focus is on upskilling their existing workforce rather than replacing employees.
This approach aims to enhance customer engagement and the overall quality of service in the tourism industry.
Both Fernandez and Longsworth highlighted the need for collaboration and the establishment of universal standards for AI use in the hotel and tourism industry.
Fernandez expressed his appreciation for Sandals’ commitment to not cutting jobs due to AI, and he hopes other companies will adopt a similar approach.
This story was first published by Antigua News on July 11, 2024: antigua.news/2024/07/11/ai-in-hospitality-sector-tourism-minister-highlights-both-benefits-and-concerns. © 2024 Antigua News. Republication without permission is not allowed.
About the author
The Editorial Staff refers to all reporters employed by Antigua.news. When an article is not an original creation of Antigua.news—such as when it is based on a press release, other media articles, letters to the editor, or court decisions—one of our staff members is responsible for overseeing its publication.
Read our editorial standards and corrections policy. Spotted an error? Contact the newsroom.
More from Tourism
View section
Freeland Congratulates Fernandez on Election as CTO Chairman
Minister of State pledges support for Fernandez’s regional tourism leadership and welcomes his focus on women, youth and connectivity.
By Shermain Bique-Charles
Antigua has 365 beaches. Can it make AI’s shortlist?
As travellers ask chatbots to find their ideal holiday, Antigua and Barbuda faces a new challenge: being recommended before anyone thinks to search for it.
By Dario Item
Nikki Beach Antigua Makes Waves in Monaco as Freeland and Sales Team Meet 30 Potential Buyers
By Shermain Bique-Charles
Freeland Heads to Monaco to Promote Antigua and Barbuda’s Yachting Sector
By Editorial Staff
Comments
Be the first to comment.