Importance of Tourism on the Caribbean

Tourism is crucial to Caribbean economies.

A popular vacation destination, the Caribbean earns a significant amount of money from visitors. Such funds are one of several benefits that tourism brings to the region.

Helps Local Merchants

As many as 6,000 passengers can disembark from a single cruise ship at popular Caribbean ports. These individuals typically purchase locally made products and pay for local services. That injection of money not only helps merchants but also the greater economy.

Generates Employment

The influx of visitors generates employment for individuals in tourism and tourism-related sectors. For instance, a 2006 report indicated that the Caribbean cruise industry paid $600 million to Caribbean employees.

Tax Revenue

Visitors to the Caribbean pay taxes on the products they purchase while vacationing. These taxes help fund local government projects.

Revenue From Fees

Exit fees are charged by many islands; visitors pay these fees when leaving the country. Docking cruise ships also pay ship, port and berth fees. These monies go directly to the government of the country and are used to advance the economy.

References

• Latin Trade: Making Waves
• Florida-Caribbean Cruise Association: Cruise Industry's Economic Impact On The Caribbean (p. 7)