On Friday, July 3rd, 2026, to mark National Tourism Day, the Ministry of Tourism hosted a celebration at the Oasis Hotel. The event brought together key public and private sector stakeholders, as well as national and international partners, for a strategic discussion on the role of tourism in the country's development, focusing on the theme of "Heritage, Investment, and Territorial Recovery".

The celebration was attended by Prime Minister Alix Didier Fils-Aimé, and Ministers Stéphanie Smith (Tourism), Kathia Verdier (Diaspora), Joseph Almathe Pierre Louis (Public Works), James Monazard (Trade), Sandra Paulemon (Planning), and Emmanuel Ménard (Culture). Representatives from the private sector, the diplomatic corps, technical and financial partners, and numerous stakeholders in the tourism industry were also present.

This day highlighted Haiti's tourism potential and reaffirmed the government's commitment to making tourism a driver of economic and territorial development.

In his address, the Prime Minister emphasized the strategic and cross-cutting importance of tourism. He stressed the need for close coordination between public institutions, local authorities, the private sector, and national and international partners for its development. The Government is committed to creating favorable conditions for the revitalization of this industry, which is essential for economic growth, job creation, and sustainable development.

The Prime Minister commended the resilience of the private sector, which continues to invest despite current challenges. https://www.haitilibre.com/en/news-47844-signing-of-a-private-haitian-tourist-complex-project-worth-nearly-$20m.html He reaffirmed the Government's commitment to restoring security, continuing the electoral process, and strengthening the institutions of the Republic. "The development of tourism benefits the entire national economy," declared the Head of Government. He invited international partners, friends of Haiti, and the diaspora to contribute to the sector's revival by rediscovering the country's cultural, historical, and natural treasures.

Stéphanie Smith, Minister of Tourism, made a passionate appeal to rediscover Haiti, highlighting the exceptional richness of its historical, cultural, and natural heritage. She presented the Ministry's three strategic priorities : promoting national heritage, strengthening confidence to stimulate investment, and revitalizing tourism in the regions, all within an inclusive approach that fosters local development and community participation.

The Minister invited citizens, the diaspora, the private sector, and international partners to join forces to build a more attractive, more competitive, and hopeful destination for future generations.

Kathia Verdier, Minister for Haitians Living Abroad (MHAVE), emphasized the strategic importance of the diaspora in promoting Haiti as a tourist destination. She reaffirmed her Ministry's commitment to supporting initiatives aimed at developing sustainable and inclusive tourism.

The ceremony also included the presentation of awards to several institutions that have contributed to Haiti's international standing, notably the Haitian Football Federation (FHF), the Haitian Tourism Association (ATH), and Sunrise Airways.

During this celebration, the Minister of Tourism reiterated her commitment to collaborating with all stakeholders to implement an ambitious tourism policy. This policy aims to enhance the country's heritage, promote investment, ensure the sustainable development of its territories, and establish Haiti as an exceptional destination.

HL/ S/ HaitiLibre