St Lucia’s Hilaire points to economic impact of CPL

GROS ISLET, St Lucia (CMC):

Tourism Minister Dr Ernest Hilaire says the Caribbean Premier League (CPL) has “catalysed a ripple effect of economic prosperity” in the country, after tournament organisers announced a total economic impact of US$39.4 million stemming from last year’s showpiece.

Six games were scheduled for the Daren Sammy Cricket Ground here but only two were ever completed, as bad weather forced the abandonment of two others and allowed only a handful of overs in the remaining two.

Despite this, however, organisers said yesterday that the games had created a total economic impact of US$39,470,999 with a “meaningful part” of the figure owing to spend by overseas visitors.

“Through the synergy of sports and tourism, the Republic Bank CPL has not only brought thrilling cricket action to Saint Lucia but has also catalysed a ripple effect of economic prosperity,” said Hilaire.

“Some of our household names have developed through the sport even beyond the boundary. The tournament’s impact resonates across sectors enriching our local economy and showcasing the unparalleled beauty of Saint Lucia to a global audience.”

Organisers said the scheduled games period from August 16-20 resulted in the booking of 12,818 hotel room nights, with players, media, broadcast crew and visitors flocking to the island.

The league also said St Lucia benefited significantly from international exposure with the tournament attracting 853.5 million total viewers.

“St Lucia was once again a wonderful host for CPL matches in 2023 and we enjoyed the unrivalled hospitality in such beautiful surroundings,” said CPL chief executive, Pete Russell.

“We are looking forward to returning for the 2024 season to once again contribute positively to the Saint Lucian economy.”

The overall economic impact figure is determined by organiser spend, visitor spend and media and promotional value for St Lucia, and is calculated by researchers YouGov Sport.