A National Tourism Policy and Strategic Action Plan is being finalised to strengthen the tourism sector and guide its long-term sustainable development. The policy is expected to be completed later this year.
The Ministry of Tourism, Industry and Commerce said the framework, developed in collaboration with the Department of Tourism, the Guyana Tourism Authority and the Tony Blair Institute for Global Change, is intended to guide governance, investment and industry development, while promoting innovation, sustainability and stronger public-private coordination.
The initiative comes as the tourism sector experiences rapid expansion, including a 22 per cent increase in visitor arrivals in 2025 and projections of around 550,000 visitors by the end of 2026.
The policy, the ministry elaborated, will provide a roadmap to manage growth and ensure broader economic benefits, with priorities including improved infrastructure and connectivity, destination marketing, product development, and higher industry standards and quality assurance.
It will also support workforce development and expand opportunities for small businesses and community-based tourism initiatives.
The policy will align with the Low Carbon Development Strategy, with a focus on environmental protection and community empowerment. Implementation will be led by the Department of Tourism and the Guyana Tourism Authority in partnership with sector stakeholders.
