Aspiring Tourism Entities Urged to Get Registered

Aspiring tourism operators are being encouraged to obtain licensing, registration, and certification through the Tourism Product Development Company (TPDCo).

Mayor of St. Ann’s Bay, Councillor Michael Belnavis, said the streamlined process is not only essential, but will boost compliance, safety, and the ease of doing business with hotels and cruise lines.

“Licensed and insured businesses are the partners hotels and cruise lines want to work with. TPDCo will guide you through a simple, safe path to compliance,” Mr. Belnavis told JIS News following a recent sitting of the St. Ann Municipality.

The call is being supported by Senior Director of Taj Mahal Plaza, Sanju Chatani, who pointed out that a standardised licensing pathway, essential for levelling the playing field and building guest trust.

Owner of the Double V Plaza, Colin Mills, a longtime advocate for quality service, noted that formal certification creates a safer, more predictable environment for visitors and operators alike.

Also, scuba diving operator Garfield Dussard emphasised that public liability insurance is a cornerstone of sustainable tourism.

Meanwhile, Jamaica Vacations (JAMVAC) Executive Director, Joy Roberts noted that professional licensing and certification are essential for elevating Jamaica’s tourism product.

“When operators meet clear standards, visitors gain confidence, communities benefit from sustainable jobs, and Jamaica’s brand as a safe, high-quality destination is reinforced,” Ms. Roberts said.

“It helps everyone when we are all on the same page. We all want the same thing, so it is very important that all aspiring tourism entities as well as everyone involved in the tourism sector…get their operations licensed and certified,” she added.

The TPDCo is the central agency mandated by the Government to facilitate the maintenance, development and enhancement of the tourism product.

It is also charged, on behalf of the Jamaica Tourist Board, to process applications for entities requiring a JTB licence.

Prospective applicants are encouraged to visit the TPDCo offices for information. Interested parties may also consult TPDCo’s official website at https://www.tpdco.org/ to begin the licensing and certification process.