The government will be reducing the 14-day residency requirement for couples wishing to be legally married in Guyana, and according to the Tourism and Hospitality Association of Guyana (THAG), this is in line with its recommendations to the Ministry of Finance, and positions Guyana to enter the fast-growing global destination wedding market while strengthening the country’s Orange Economy, a THAG release stated on Tuesday. It explained that destination weddings are one of the fastest-growing niche tourism segments globally, and according to Allied Market Research, is valued at over US$300 billion in 2023. Caribbean destinations that allow weddings within 24 – 72 hours of arrival have successfully attracted this market and increased tourism revenue. Guyana’s previous 14-day requirement was a major barrier, as most visitors stay only four to ten days, so reducing this restriction aligns Guyana with regional best practice and enhances its competitiveness.