Dominica Tourist Board

The Dominica Tourist Board was the principal governmental body responsible for promoting and developing Dominica’s tourism industry before it was integrated into the National Development Corporation (NDC) in 1988. Established to harness the island’s unique natural and cultural assets, the Board played a crucial role in positioning Dominica as a distinctive destination within the Caribbean.

Mandate and Functions of the Dominica Tourist Board

The primary objectives of the Dominica Tourist Board included:

• Destination Marketing: Crafting and implementing marketing strategies to attract international visitors, emphasizing Dominica’s pristine environment and rich cultural heritage.
• Tourism Product Development: Collaborating with local stakeholders to develop and enhance tourism offerings, ensuring they met international standards and catered to diverse visitor interests.
• Stakeholder Engagement: Working closely with community groups, businesses, and other government agencies to foster a cohesive approach to tourism development.

Integration into the National Development Corporation

In 1988, recognizing the need for a more integrated approach to economic development, the government enacted the National Development Corporation Act No. 17 of 1988, merging the Dominica Tourist Board with the Industrial Development Corporation to form the National Development Corporation (NDC). This consolidation aimed to streamline efforts in promoting both industrial and tourism sectors, leveraging shared resources and strategic planning.

Legacy and Impact

The Dominica Tourist Board laid the foundational framework for the island’s tourism industry. Its initiatives in marketing, product development, and stakeholder collaboration set the stage for subsequent advancements in the sector. The Board’s legacy is evident in Dominica’s continued emphasis on sustainable tourism practices and its reputation as the “Nature Island of the Caribbean.”

Transition to Discover Dominica Authority

Building upon the groundwork laid by the Dominica Tourist Board and the NDC, the government later established the Discover Dominica Authority (DDA) to focus exclusively on tourism promotion and development. The DDA continues to uphold the principles and objectives initiated by the Tourist Board, adapting them to contemporary tourism trends and challenges.