Dear CHTA Members and Friends,

As we sail through an increasingly complex global landscape, I am reminded once again of the resilience, adaptability, and unwavering spirit that define the Caribbean tourism industry.

This past month, CHTA made a formal submission to U.S. authorities on behalf of our members regarding the proposed port service fees and tariffs targeting Chinese-built vessels. Our message was clear: avoid imposing unintended harm on Caribbean economies. We are encouraged to see that exporters and vessel owners servicing the Caribbean are currently exempt from these proposed fees — a meaningful recognition of our region’s unique relationship with the United States, and one we believe was shaped in part by our collective advocacy.

That said, the broader implications remain significant. Increased global shipping costs, rerouted cargo flows, and shifts in supplier behavior could all affect the cost of doing business in the Caribbean — from the food and beverage that fill our restaurants to the materials that shape our hotels and resorts.

CHTA is not standing still. We will continue to advocate for the region’s unique needs as global policies evolve. In fact, this marks just one of several recent actions we’ve taken to safeguard and promote Caribbean tourism. Last October 2024, we issued a public statement in support of the Dominican Republic’s incentive legislation (read here), and on Earth Day 2025, we reaffirmed our position on the importance of transitioning to alternative energy solutions across the region (read here).

We remain committed to ensuring that Caribbean businesses are not disproportionately affected by decisions made far beyond our shores. And just as importantly, we’ll keep you informed, engaged, and prepared to adapt.

In times of uncertainty, CHTA’s role as your voice and advocate becomes even more critical. Thank you for your trust, your partnership, and your unrelenting belief in the power of the Caribbean to rise above every challenge.

Warmly,

Sanovnik Destang

President, Caribbean Hotel and Tourism Association