Minister Highlights Inclusivity in Tourism Industry
By: , February 13, 2025
Photo: Contributed
Minister of Tourism, Hon Edmund Bartlett (second left), welcomes Capt. Joseph Trevino (left), and other crew members on the inaugural Avelo Airlines flight from Raleigh-Durham International Airport in North Carolina to Sangster International Airport in Montego Bay, on February 12. The Minister is joined by (from third left): Regional Director, Jamaica Tourist Board, Odette Soberam-Dyer; His Worship, the Mayor of Montego Bay, Councillor Richard Vernon; Manager of Commercial Business Development and Marketing at MBJ Airports Limited, Sharon Hislop-Holt and Executive Director, Jamaica Vacations Limited (JAMVAC), Joy Roberts.The Full Story
Minister of Tourism, Hon. Edmund Bartlett, says the sector has achieved unprecedented inclusivity over the past eight years, particularly in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic.
Speaking to reporters following the arrival of Avelo Airlines’ first scheduled international flight from the Research Triangle’s Raleigh-Durham International Airport in North Carolina into the Sangster International Airport, St. James, on February 12, Mr. Bartlett highlighted the Government’s efforts to support small operators within the tourism sector.
He revealed that 433 small businesses have benefited from loan facilities totalling $25 million from the Exim Bank, through the Tourism Enhancement Fund (TEF), over the past several years.
“That has never happened before,” the Minister said, adding that the financial assistance marks a historic first for Jamaica, demonstrating a commitment to empowering local entrepreneurs and enhancing the tourism experience for visitors.
“The ground transportation sector has seen tremendous benefits from these initiatives. Jamaica National Small Business has also provided over a billion dollars in loans to small taxi operators and transfer partners in the tourism industry. This kind of support has never happened before,” he noted.
Mr. Bartlett also cited the rapid expansion of the tourism industry since the pandemic, noting that while growth brings opportunities, it also generates challenges.
“We are aware of the issues arising from this progress, and we are working diligently to address them,” he said, stressing the importance of maintaining a balance as the industry evolves.
Mr. Bartlett further pointed out that the recent growth has created a need for local entrepreneurs to pivot and adapt to the changing landscape.
“The Prime Minister has spoken about the need for flexibility in our approach. We must enhance the supply side of tourism by engaging more local producers,” the Minister said, noting that the call to action includes increasing the production of local agricultural products to meet tourism demands.
“We need more fresh fruits, vegetables, poultry, and cultural products to be sourced locally. This not only supports local farmers but also enriches the visitor experience,” he added.
Mr. Bartlett said that the Government plans to launch two groundbreaking academies next month – the Entertainment Academy and the Gastronomy Academy –both housed in the Montego Bay Convention Centre in St. James, specifically aimed at equipping locals with the skills necessary to thrive in the tourism sector.
“We have conducted seminars on event planning and management throughout the island, including Negril and Montego Bay, with plans for Kingston and the South Coast. These workshops bring together major players in the entertainment industry, allowing us to embed more local talent into the tourism value chain,” he noted.
Mr. Bartlett expressed optimism about the future of Jamaica’s tourism industry.
“The world is watching, and we are poised for growth. While we have made significant strides, there is always room for improvement, and we are committed to that,” the Minister said.