FDM Suggests Tourism Stakeholders Council
“We propose replacing the Bermuda Tourism Authority with a privately led Tourism Stakeholders’ Council, ensuring marketing and innovation efforts are industry driven and financially sustainable,” the FDM said today.
A spokesperson said, “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.
“To achieve this, we propose replacing the Bermuda Tourism Authority with a privately led Tourism Stakeholders’ Council, ensuring marketing and innovation efforts are industry driven and financially sustainable. We will make it easier for local entrepreneurs to conduct business on government-owned land such as Dockyard and other underutilized spaces. This includes simplifying the process for vendors to operate in these areas, extending entertainment hours, and increasing the number of vendors allowed in popular tourist locations. These measures will enhance the visitor experience while generating sustainable economic opportunities for Bermudians.
“Winning awards in travel magazines does not put food on the table for Bermudians. Marketing campaigns cannot replace the genuine feeling visitors get when they are greeted by local entertainers in the arrivals hall. Bermuda needs real, meaningful reform that creates opportunities for Bermudians.
“For more on the FDM’s economic policy and vision for Bermuda’s future, visit: http://www.fdmbda.com.”
The main reason for not getting back to pre pandemic levels is the lack of beds. No marketing or strategy can replace that. Once Fairmont Southampton is reopened then we will have a proper basis for analysis.
Excellent idea! Hoping the ruling party takes this into consideration.