By Zns Bahamas

Copyright znsbahamas

Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Tourism, Investment and Aviation, the Hon. Chester Cooper addressed the Abaco Business Outlook event on Thursday at the Abaco Beach Club.

During his presentation Mr. Cooper highlighted foreign investment projects, air arrival increases and other drivers of the growing economy. He said, “air arrival grew by 7.7% compared to 2024. Overall arrivals are 10.5% ahead of pre-Dorian levels and air arrivals and airlift to Abaco is second in the country only to Grand Bahama.”

The Minister also spoke about the importance of turning the numbers into opportunities. He credited the Tourism Development Corporation for their efforts in providing business grants, training and access to capital.

Cooper said the government is committed to developing Abaco’s boating and yachting sector in a sustainable way. He said, “we’re safeguarding marine ecosystems because fisheries, boating and tourism depend on each other. Our blue economy strategy recognizes that ocean is both our greatest treasure and our greatest responsibility.”

The minister called on the business community to partner with the government to address challenges in infrastructure, airlift, services and housing.