National

Opposition Leader Claims Stopover Visitor Spending Has Decreased

NASSAU, BAHAMAS – The Opposition is challenging the view that stopover visitors positively impact our economy.

Published

5 months ago

July 31, 2024

Joshua Williams

NASSAU, BAHAMAS – The Opposition is challenging the view that stopover visitors positively impact our economy.

Stopover passengers are a vital part of our nation’s leading industry. These visitors, who stay at least one night, get to experience our destination more fully.

And according to the Ministry of Tourism, Investments, and Aviation, the stopover visitor market is growing.

Director General Latia Duncombe painting a glowing picture recently, noting daily spending by stopover visitors has increased by 36% since 2019.

However, there appears to be a data discrepancy.

Citing the independent source tourismanalytics.com, Opposition Leader Michael Pintard claims there has been zero economic growth when compared to other regional markets.

On the other hand, both government and opposition, acknowledge the rise in cruise passengers, and with new deals inked with cruise liners totaling in the millions, it’s expected those numbers will increase further.

However, Pintard says he is concerned about the benefits for taxpayers.