Caribbean Sports Tourism Summit Signals an Opportunity for Dominica

Anguilla will host the inaugural Caribbean Tourism Organization (CTO) Sports Tourism Summit from August 12–14, 2027, bringing regional attention to the growing connection between sport, tourism and economic development.

Announced during CTO's State of the Tourism Industry Conference in Georgetown, Guyana, the summit will bring together tourism and sports officials, athletes, event organisers, destination marketers and private-sector partners. Discussions will explore how sporting events can attract visitors, strengthen destination brands and create opportunities for local communities.

For Dominica, this regional initiative should encourage a serious conversation about our own potential. Sports tourism accounts for approximately 10% of worldwide tourism spending, according to UN Tourism. Grand View Research estimates the global market at US$803.9 billion in 2025, rising to US$927.9 billion in 2026 and a projected US$2.78 trillion by 2033. Its forecast points to approximately 17% annual growth, with football accounting for 37.8% of the market. These figures are global estimates and forecasts, but they demonstrate the scale of the sector.

Dominica could build opportunities around regional football tournaments, basketball competitions, cricket matches and training camps. Visiting teams bring players, coaches and officials, often accompanied by relatives and supporters. Their spending could reach hotels, guesthouses, restaurants, transport operators, vendors and tour guides.

Imagine a youth football tournament where visiting families spend their mornings exploring waterfalls, rivers and communities before attending afternoon matches. Sport provides the reason to travel, while Dominica's natural attractions and culture give visitors reasons to stay longer.

The benefits could also reach our young people. The summit announcement highlights sport's potential to create pathways to training, international exposure, scholarships and careers. It also encourages regional partnerships and explores how sporting initiatives could support health causes, including fundraising for people affected by cancer.

Turning this potential into results will require coordination between Dominica's sports associations, tourism authorities and businesses. Suitable facilities, dependable event calendars, strong promotion and packages connecting sport with accommodation and local experiences would provide a practical foundation.

The summit's venue, programme, speakers and registration details will be announced in the coming months. For Dominica, the message is already clear: sports tourism deserves deliberate planning and investment as an opportunity for business growth, youth development and stronger regional connections.