Minister of Tourism, Hon. Edmund Bartlett, says unmasking the full economic potential of tourism remains at the heart of the region’s quest for sustainable and inclusive growth. Speaking in an interview with JIS News, Mr. Bartlett noted that authorities in the region have been aggressively seeking to leverage tourism as a source of local economic development (LED). He argued that...

The Jamaica Hotel and Tourist Association (JHTA) has established a charity fund to assist Caribbean islands ravaged by Hurricanes Irma and Maria. JHTA President, Omar Robinson, made the disclosure while addressing stakeholders attending the 27th annual Jamaica Product Exchange at the Montego Bay Convention Centre, recently. He said the entity has kick-started the support with a US$10,000 contribution. “Our hearts...

Prime Minister, the Most Hon. Andrew Holness, says Jamaica is aggressively expanding its tourism base by continuing to offer quality experience, supported by a range of infrastructural development. Speaking at the opening of Breathless Montego Bay Resort and Spa, Freeport, St. James, on September 25, Mr. Holness noted that in light of this approach, it is extremely important that stakeholders...

Prime Minister, the Most Hon. Andrew Holness, says tourism continues to be the main engine of economic growth, providing indirect employment for one in every four persons in the linked sectors. These include agriculture, the creative and cultural industries, entertainment, manufacturing, transportation, finance and insurance, electricity and water, and construction. “In 2016, the hotels and restaurants sector employed 94,850 persons,...

Minister of Tourism, Hon. Edmund Bartlett, says initiatives will be put in place to widen the net of people benefiting from the tourism industry in terms of ownership and employment. “Tourism is a viable sector that can benefit all of us,” he said, adding that if carefully leveraged, tourism can benefit the socio-economic growth of all people in society. Minister...

Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Sangster International Airport, Dr. Rafael Echevarne, says the upgrading of the facility will help to position the airport as a key player in the economy. “We see ourselves playing a major role in Jamaica. We want to position ourselves as something that really stands out from being just a mere piece of infrastructure,” he said...

Minister of Tourism, Hon. Edmund Bartlett, says the sector is growing by leaps and bounds, attracting levels of both local and foreign investments never seen before. “We are experiencing record visitor arrivals and earnings as well as a vibrant investment climate,” Mr. Bartlett told delegates and stakeholders at the opening of the Jamaica Product Exchange (JAPEX) on September 24 at...