Local tourism businesses are set to gain direct access to influential North American travel companies, with Guyana selected to host the 2027 USTOA Sustainability is Responsibility (SIR) Summit on March 7–10.

The Guyana Tourism Authority (GTA), in collaboration with the Tourism, Industry and Commerce Ministry, said Guyana won the right to host the annual summit of the United States Tour Operators Association (USTOA) after a competitive international bid. Its proposal was recognised for creativity, vision and commitment to sustainability.

USTOA's members include some of the most established tour operators serving the North American market. The GTA said local accommodation providers, tour operators, transportation companies, guides and community-based enterprises are also expected to benefit.

Tourism, Industry and Commerce Minister Susan Rodrigues said Guyana has deliberately developed tourism around its natural environment and cultural diversity, and the summit will show operators how those assets translate into "business opportunities and livelihoods for Guyanese."

GTA Director Kamrul Baksh described the selection as "an important milestone for Guyana and a strong endorsement of the direction in which our tourism industry is developing."

"This summit will allow us to demonstrate that commitment to some of the most influential voices in the North American travel industry," he said.

Previous editions of the summit were held in Norway, Singapore, Valencia in Spain and Anchorage, Alaska.

The programme will begin in Georgetown before moving to Baganara Island Resort on the Essequibo River, where delegates will take part in educational sessions, discussions and practical activities. A visit to Kaieteur Falls is also expected. Optional pre- and post-summit programmes, including visits to the interior and community-based tourism experiences, are being developed.

The summit will be delivered by USTOA and the GTA, with support from local stakeholders and industry partners. Further details will be announced in the coming months.