The Free Democratic Movement (FDM) acknowledges the 2024 Visitor Arrivals Report, which highlights a 9.6% year-over-year increase in air visitors and higher visitor spending. However, a closer look reveals a stagnant and declining industry that continues to fail Bermudians.
While arrivals have improved from pandemic-era lows, they remain well below historical levels and even below the numbers recorded when the Bermuda Tourism Authority (BTA) was founded in 2014. The rising cost of living affects both tourists and Bermudians, making the island an increasingly expensive destination while also straining local households.
Higher prices do not equate to a stronger economy, and the tourism sector continues to suffer from a lack of real job creation and business opportunities for Bermudians.
Bermuda’s overreliance on the U.S. East Coast market remains a glaring weakness, making long-term growth unsustainable. The BTA touts digital marketing campaigns and airline partnerships, yet these efforts have failed to expand Bermuda’s visitor base or diversify its tourism product. The BTA remains a bloated and ineffective entity that does not justify its budget.
The FDM’s Economic Policy presents a clear strategy to revitalize Bermuda’s tourism sector by restructuring tourism leadership to ensure effective management that prioritizes growth.
Expanding into new markets beyond the U.S. East Coast is essential to reducing economic vulnerability, while removing regulatory barriers will encourage entrepreneurship and innovation.
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