The overall objective of the Programme is to contribute to economic growth and poverty alleviation of CARIFORUM countries through increased competitiveness and sustainability of the Caribbean tourism sector. While an improved competitiveness is required, essentially based on the quality of the product offered (in terms of standards offered and in terms of its intrinsic, unique characteristics), sustainability represents the main concern of the programme. In this respect, the essential aim is to build up a real tourism economy based on high value added, niche oriented products rather than on an increased number of tourist arrivals.