Caribbean Tourism Organization CEO to Keynote 2026 Caribbean Food Forum in Antigua

Why It Matters

The forum links food systems directly to tourism growth, positioning the Caribbean as a sustainable, high‑value destination and creating new investment pathways for local producers and entrepreneurs.

Key Takeaways

• CTO CEO Dona Regis‑Prosper will keynote the 2026 Food Forum.
• Forum theme: “The Future Is Local” linking Caribbean food to global impact.
• Panels will address climate resilience, agritourism, diaspora, and food entrepreneurship.
• Event aims to produce a white paper with actionable regional recommendations.
• Combines virtual and in‑person sessions during Antigua’s Annual Culinary Month.

Pulse Analysis

The Caribbean Food Forum arrives at a pivotal moment for the region’s tourism strategy, as policymakers recognize that culinary experiences are no longer a peripheral attraction but a core driver of visitor spending. By convening leaders from tourism boards, agricultural cooperatives, and hospitality firms, the forum underscores a shift toward integrated destination branding that leverages locally sourced ingredients to differentiate Caribbean islands in a crowded global market.

Regenerative tourism and sustainable food systems dominate the agenda, reflecting broader industry trends toward climate‑smart practices. Sessions on agritourism and diaspora engagement aim to unlock new revenue streams for small‑scale farmers while reducing supply‑chain emissions. The emphasis on technology and market access signals that Caribbean producers are ready to meet international standards, positioning the region to capture a larger share of the $1.5 trillion global food tourism spend.

For investors and development agencies, the forum offers a concrete roadmap: a forthcoming white paper will codify policy recommendations, investment priorities, and partnership models. This tangible output transforms dialogue into actionable projects, from renewable‑energy‑powered farms to digital marketplaces that connect Caribbean brands with overseas consumers. As the Caribbean aligns its food and tourism sectors, the region stands to boost economic resilience, create jobs, and enhance its reputation as a sustainable, culturally rich travel destination.