A series of meetings involving key players in the tourism industry is aiming to highlight new opportunities to spark investment in the island’s restaurants and attractions.

Vance Campbell, the Minister of Tourism and the Cabinet Office, said recent amendments to the Tourism Investment Act were intended to encourage investment in new and existing businesses.

“Our tourism product extends beyond the hotel,” Mr Campbell said. “Restaurants and attractions are an essential component of the visitor experience and have long been associated with visitor satisfaction.

“This amended legislation will stimulate local investment in the delivery of an enhanced Bermudian product.

“A high-quality tourism product that boasts opportunity and diversity is essential in delivering an unforgettable visitor experience. It is therefore imperative that we encourage and support investment in Bermuda’s restaurants and tourist attractions.”

The amendments offer a range of incentives for investing in tourism-related businesses, including restaurants and attractions. Duty relief and relief from the employer’s share of payroll tax are some of the incentives.

“Tourism is a key driver of economic growth and development for Bermuda,” Mr Campbell said. “Our Government’s aim is to continuously enhance the framework for sustainable tourism investment.

“Bermuda boasts more than 100 restaurants and the Tourism Investment Act provides an enhanced package that stimulates sustainable investment in the product, particularly for new restaurants.”

He added: “We have such a diverse visitor product offering in Bermuda and we want to help our local entrepreneurs thrive in this space.

“This Government appreciates that it can be a challenge owning and operating a business in the tourism space. But we are here to help them thrive.”

Mr Campbell said he and his team would meet “key organisations” in the coming weeks to discuss the amendments and the ongoing work to bolster Bermuda’s tourism product.

He said: “I and my team will be directly meeting with key organisations to share how the Tourism Investment Act 2017 amendments will support them and the continued development of Bermuda’s tourism product. This will result in a sustained tourism recovery for all.”