Top tourism official says CPL a ‘game changer’ for Guyana

GEORGETOWN, Guyana (CMC):

A leading tourism official in Guyana has labelled the Caribbean Premier League a "game changer" for the country's sector, saying the showpiece had resulted in record arrivals over the last two years.

CPL announced its yearly economic impact numbers and speaking afterwards, Director of the Guyana Tourism Authority, Kamrul Baksh, said hosting the tournament final had resulted in a huge boost for tourism numbers and stressed that Guyana was focused now on building out its sports tourism thrust.

"The Caribbean Premier League has been a game changer for Guyana's tourism industry," he said in a CPL statement.

"More specifically, since becoming the host nation of the CPL final in 2022, Guyana's visitor arrivals have significantly increased by 131 per cent from 2022 to 2023. This is the highest number of visitors for September on record.

"In just two years, the rush of cricket fans and travellers from around the world has filled our hotels and restaurants and provided opportunities for local businesses to thrive."

He continued: "The CPL has not only brought exciting matches, but has also displayed Guyana's rich culture and natural beauty worldwide, reinforcing our status as a leading tourism destination.

"We aim to capitalise on this success, leveraging sports tourism to drive steady economic development."

The CPL announced a total economic impact of US$101,683,135 for Guyana during last year's tournament when the country hosted six group-stage games, along with the play-offs and the final.

Host franchise Guyana Amazon Warriors crushed multiple-time champions Trinbago Knight Riders in the final to claim their first-ever title.

According to the study compiled by research organisation YouGov Sport, "a large part" of the economic impact value was derived from visitor spend in the country during the tournament.

The tournament accounted for a record 23,217 hotel room nights, said the CPL.

"The conclusion of the 2023 tournament was certainly dramatic, as all eyes were on Guyana to see the Amazon Warriors claim their first CPL title," said CPL Chief Executive Pete Russell.

"This was a fantastic moment for the country, and it is rewarding to have seen both the social and economic impact the tournament had in Guyana."

CPL said organiser spending, visitor spending and media value were the key economic drivers considered in the impact study.