Jamaica welcomed 4.15 million visitors in 2024, generating a record-breaking US$4.3 billion in earnings, exceeding pre-pandemic levels and cementing Jamaica's position as the Caribbean's second most visited destination.
Record Investments and Global Recognition
Over US$3 billion in hotel investments are underway or committed, with new brands including RIU, H10, Princess, Moon Palace, and Hard Rock set to add 20,000 new rooms over the next decade.
Major Infrastructure Developments
- Major upgrades at Norman Manley, Sangster, and Ian Fleming International Airports
- Plans announced for a fourth international airport in Negril
- Multiple awards received in 2024–2025 from TripAdvisor, Travvy Awards, and World Travel Awards
Empowering Local Communities
Minister Bartlett emphasized that "Tourism is no longer a privilege for the few—it is a platform for the prosperity of all Jamaicans." The industry now retains 40.8% of tourism dollars locally, a regional benchmark.
Local Economic Impact
- Agri-Linkages Exchange (ALEX) connected over 2,000 farmers to hotels
- Generated over J$1.2 billion in agricultural sales
- Jamaica Centre for Tourism Innovation certified over 20,000 tourism workers
- 1,120 students placed in internships in 2024
Cultural and Community Tourism Growth
Carnival in Jamaica generated J$6.1 billion in economic activity in 2023, attracting over 112,000 attendees. The Artisan Village at Falmouth, opened in April 2024, showcases Jamaican culture through VR experiences and local art.
Legislative and Infrastructure Advancements
The government will advance a new Tourist Board Act and implement policies on Water-Based Activities, Community Tourism, and Sustainable Tourism Metrics. Major roadworks have been completed to key attractions in Nine Mile, Negril, and St. Mary.
15 Strategic Pillars for Future Growth
Minister Bartlett outlined 15 strategic priorities including:
- Local First legislation to prioritize Jamaican suppliers
- Expansion of the Spruce Up Jamaica programme
- Launch of Love Jamaica Travel Pass for discounted local tourism
- Digital transformation of bookings and tourism promotion
- Youth enterprise and training investments
- Development of new frontiers like St. Thomas and Clarendon
Tourism Resilience and Recovery Initiatives
Jamaica's Ministry of Tourism has activated a Hurricane Melissa Recovery Task Force and Tourism Resilience Coordination Committee to synchronize public and private sector action toward full industry operation by Dec. 15.
Task Force Leadership
- Chair: John Byles, executive deputy chairman of Chukka Caribbean Adventures
- Chairman Emeritus: Minister Bartlett
- Includes public and private sector leaders from major tourism organizations
Vision for the Future
"A third term for this administration is not about continuity—it's about transformation. We are building a tourism industry that is truly for the people, driven by innovation, and rooted in every corner of Jamaica." - Minister Bartlett
The mission is to ensure every Jamaican feels the impact of tourism in their daily lives, building a model that is inclusive, resilient, and distinctly Jamaican.