Prime Minister Hon. Dr. Godwin Friday has reaffirmed a robust partnership with Sandals Resorts, highlighting an immediate US$45 million investment to expand tourism offerings and economic activity in St. Vincent and the Grenadines.
The announcement follows a high-level meeting between government officials and Sandals executives focused on future economic cooperation, capacity building, and community development.
The Prime Minister expressed strong satisfaction with Sandals’ regional investments, citing the substantial benefits they generate, including enhanced airlift, tourism growth, and foreign direct investment.
- Phase One: Construction is currently underway for 22 of Sandals’ signature Rondoval Villas, which are slated for completion in November 2026.
- Phase Two: Following the villas, the resort will construct 20 new Hillside Sky Suites.
Looking ahead, the partnership also laid out plans for Beaches St. Vincent, with construction expected to commence in 2028. Preparatory and design work for this major project will place a heavy emphasis on sustainable development. Planners are specifically prioritizing the protection of local marine biodiversity, reef ecosystems, and sea turtle habitats at the Mount Wynne site.
Altogether, these developments will add nearly 400 rooms to the country’s tourism inventory.
Both parties emphasized the mutual benefits and job creation central to this partnership. Prime Minister Friday reiterated his government’s support, stating, “The development of St. Vincent and the Grenadines requires continuity, partnership and a shared commitment to the national interest”. He emphasized that collaborative efforts with Sandals will “create opportunities for Vincentians, support local businesses, generate employment and contribute to sustainable economic growth”.
Jordan Samuda, Chief Administrative Officer for Sandals, echoed this enthusiasm and commended the Prime Minister’s vision for the country. “We are extremely excited about our future plans for St. Vincent, which will see significant investment in the near future, creating hundreds of new jobs and generating economic activity for the overall benefit of all,” Samuda noted.
The meetings brought together key figures from both the government and the resort group. Prime Minister Friday was joined by the Minister of Tourism, Civil Aviation, and Sustainable Development, Hon. Dr. Kishore Shallow, and Attorney General Hon. Louise Mitchell. Representing Sandals Resorts were Board Director Gervase Warner, Chief Financial Officer Conor Lawler, Chief Administrative Officer Jordan Samuda, and Eastern Caribbean Regional Managing Director Winston Anderson.