Tourism Minister Says Sector Continues to Soar

Tourism Minister, Hon. Edmund Bartlett, says Jamaica’s tourism sector continues to soar to newer and greater heights.

Addressing the Jamaica Product Exchange (JAPEX) tradeshow at Harmony Beach Park, Montego Bay, St. James, on September 21, he projected that the upcoming winter season, beginning in December, will show “stratospheric” visitor arrivals, underscoring Jamaica’s resilience and continued appeal as a premier global destination.

“This is the year of new thinking in tourism. We want to make the next five years a time of serious growth, development, and inclusive tourism. We aim to deepen local involvement in the rich and lucrative tourism value chain, so that tourism works even more for the people of Jamaica,” the Minister said.

He emphasised that new policies and legislation will underpin the “local first” vision, with global partners playing a pivotal role in ensuring that tourism benefits Jamaicans more than ever before.

The premiere four-day industry tradeshow brings together 160 global buyers from the Middle East, Latin America, Asia, and Europe, signalling Jamaica’s refreshed path toward innovation, inclusivity, and a robust “local first” approach to tourism.

JAPEX 2025 marks a turning point as Jamaica formally launches a new era in the industry. The export-focused showcase invites buyers and sellers to explore partnerships that leverage Jamaica’s diverse product offerings, experiences, and investment opportunities.

By positioning Jamaica as a symbol of innovation and inclusive growth, the Government seeks to accelerate value creation within the tourism value chain, while expanding the island’s footprint in international markets.

Mr. Bartlett noted that the country’s strategy will “rewrite tourism” through bold public-private collaboration, targeted investments, and strengthened local participation.

He stated that the nation’s policies will be geared toward making tourism more beneficial for Jamaicans, ensuring that the economic gains trickle down to communities across the island.

Meanwhile, the Minister paid tribute to former Minister of State in the Ministry of Tourism, Hon. Delano Seiveright, for his integral role in Jamaica’s post-COVID recovery.

He said that Mr. Seiveright’s new appointment as Minister of State in the Ministry of Industry, Investment and Commerce, will bring added value to tourism’s broader linkages.

JAPEX 2025 is designed to strengthen Jamaica’s position as a tourism powerhouse, while advancing the Government’s inclusive growth agenda.

The event showcases Jamaica’s commitment to sustainable tourism development, community empowerment, and local capacity-building.

It also reflects the nation’s belief that strategic international partnerships, underpinned by robust policy support, can propel Jamaica toward even greater tourism success.