NASSAU, Bahamas (CMC) — The Bahamas Government says many new policies, safety measures, and precautions will be introduced to ensure the continued health and well-being of citizens and visitors as it prepares to “reinstate tourism to the country and effectively reopen our economy”.

Tourism and Aviation Minister Dionisio D'Aguilar said since March 24, airports and seaports throughout The Bahamas have been closed to all incoming visitors, adding that given that the Bahamian economy relies heavily on the tourism sector, this decision was not made lightly.

“It is critical that health and safety protocols are being adhered to and that the health sector remains well equipped,” he said, noting that before the general opening on July 1, it is intended that a phase one opening of the tourism sector will begin to roll out on June 15.

“Phase one is expected to see the opening of the tourism sector with the return of boaters, yachters, and private aviation being allowed to enter the destination.

D'Aguilar said this phase one opening of the tourism sector is intended to test the market and serve as a transition to the phase two opening on July 1, as well as test the efficacy of the new protocols that are entailed in this plan.