Antigua and Barbuda recorded a 7 percent increase in visitor arrivals during the first quarter of 2026, marking one of the strongest starts ever for the country’s tourism sector.

Figures released during the Caribbean Travel Marketplace showed the country welcomed 110,832 visitors between January and March, with each month setting new arrival records.

Chief Executive Officer of the Antigua and Barbuda Tourism Authority, Colin James, described the year so far as “phenomenal”, citing strong growth from the United States market and increased interest from Europe.

According to James, visitor growth rose steadily throughout the quarter, climbing from 5 percent in January to 8 percent by March, which recorded the highest monthly arrival total in the country’s history.

Tourism officials said Antigua and Barbuda is also expanding its focus beyond leisure tourism by targeting the meetings, incentives, conferences and exhibitions (MICE) market, with several regional and international events currently being hosted on the island.

Officials added that cruise arrivals are projected to increase by about 22 percent this year, supported by expanded home-porting operations and a US$30 million cruise terminal upgrade.

Luxury tourism developments, including Nobu, Nikki Beach and Marriott International projects, are also expected to strengthen the country’s push toward attracting higher-spending visitors.

Tourism officials said Antigua and Barbuda continues to market itself as a safe and stable destination amid geopolitical tensions affecting other tourism markets.

However, James noted that rising oil prices and increasing operational costs remain challenges for the tourism industry and workers across the sector.