Jamaica’s economy remained broadly on course in 2024 despite significant setbacks caused by extreme weather events and other external challenges, according to the latest Economic and Social Survey Jamaica (ESSJ). Released by the Planning Institute of Jamaica (PIOJ), the report notes that while real output contracted during the year, key macroeconomic targets were maintained, reflecting continued fiscal discipline and policy...

Tourism Minister, Hon. Edmund Bartlett, has expressed gratitude to more than 60 international journalists and content creators who visited Jamaica as part of a strategic initiative to highlight the island’s recovery, resilience, and enduring appeal as a premier travel destination. The media activation formed part of a targeted recovery and reputation management effort designed to showcase Jamaica’s safety, warm hospitality,...

Principal of Barking Lodge Primary and Infant School in St. Thomas, Tannia Johnson, is underscoring the importance of reading in shaping students’ academic success, creativity and personal development. Speaking during activities to mark Read Across Jamaica Day on May 5, the veteran educator said the initiative serves as an important platform to promote literacy, imagination and creative expression among students....

Jamaica must significantly increase the amount of tourism earnings retained within the local economy by expanding the country’s supply capacity and strengthening local ownership within the industry, says Minister of Tourism, Hon. Edmund Bartlett. Mr. Bartlett further noted that too much of the wealth generated by tourism continues to leave the region, as Caribbean countries remain heavily dependent on imported...

Data-driven research continues to shape Jamaica’s social development agenda, with new findings underscoring both progress and persistent challenges affecting children, youth, and vulnerable groups across the island. The Planning Institute of Jamaica (PIOJ), in its latest Economic and Social Survey Jamaica (ESSJ), reports that evidence-based analysis remains central to the design of policies and programmes under the country’s social protection...

The Senate, on Friday (May 8), passed the National Reconstruction and Resilience Authority (NaRRA) Act. NaRRA will serve as the central coordinating body for post hurricane reconstruction, aimed at eliminating bureaucracy, reducing fragmentation, and preventing project delays. It will also function as a centre of technical excellence for project preparation and delivery, ensuring that the quality of national plans aligns...

Minister of Tourism, Hon. Edmund Bartlett, says the Government will be moving to modernise the tourism governance framework, through the development of a new Tourism Authority Act. Speaking at the Tourism Enhancement Fund (TEF) Speed Networking event at the Montego Bay Convention Centre in St. James, on May 7, the Minister said the legislation will form a critical pillar of...