Tourism’s Strong Growth Continues into 2025

The tourism industry in Antigua and Barbuda is on a remarkable trajectory, as evidenced by the latest data from the Antigua and Barbuda Hotels and Tourism Association (ABHTA). The strong performance seen in 2024 has carried over into early 2025, with promising occupancy rates reported for January and February.

Occupancy rates in January 2025 reached an impressive 82.6 percent, marking an increase from 80.8 percent in January 2024. This also surpasses the pre-pandemic figure of 79.0 percent recorded in 2019, signaling a robust recovery in the sector.

February saw further improvements, with occupancy rates climbing to 86.3 percent, compared to 85.5 percent in February 2024. However, it did show a slight dip from the 86.5 percent occupancy rate in February 2019.

Arrivals data for the first two months of 2025 also reflect a positive trend, with a total of 68,390 tourists visiting the islands, up from 61,996 in the same months of 2024 and significantly higher than the 59,912 arrivals in 2019.

The United States remains the leading source of tourists, accounting for approximately 49 percent of arrivals. The United Kingdom and Canada follow as the second and third largest markets, respectively.

Tourism plays a crucial role in the economy of Antigua and Barbuda, contributing to 70 percent of the nation’s GDP and providing around one-third of all jobs.

However, despite the current upswing, there are concerns about the economic outlook in the United States. Analysts warn that if a pessimistic scenario unfolds, it could negatively impact the momentum the tourism sector has been enjoying.

As the industry looks to the future, stakeholders remain optimistic about the potential for continued growth, while also keeping a cautious eye on external economic conditions.