The Ministry of Tourism has unveiled a powerful update on Jamaica’s ongoing transformation into a globally admired, resilient, and inclusive tourism powerhouse. In his annual Sectoral Debate presentation to Parliament, Minister of Tourism, Hon. Edmund Bartlett, outlined sweeping achievements that have redefined tourism as a national engine for inclusive development.

“Jamaica continues to earn global admiration—this is not just success, it is sustained excellence.”
— Minister Bartlett

A Post-Pandemic Recovery Model for the World
Jamaica has earned international acclaim for orchestrating one of the world’s fastest post-COVID-19 tourism recoveries. Through decisive leadership, resilient corridor strategies, and robust worker training, Jamaica saw 4.15 million visitors in 2024, generating US$4.3 billion in revenue. The success is steering the country toward its ambitious “5x5x5” goal: 5 million visitors and US$5 billion in earnings by 2025.

“When we speak of ‘linking tourism to every Jamaican’s success,’ we are not engaging in political rhetoric or making empty promises. We are referring to concrete actions and transformational initiatives.”
— Minister Bartlett

“Making every Jamaican a tourism stakeholder will promote shared tourism prosperity… from farmers to IT experts.”
— Minister Bartlett

Global Awards and Market Diversification Success
Jamaica’s prominence was further cemented by multiple accolades. The island earned top rankings in the 2025 Tripadvisor Travelers’ Choice® Awards and dominated the World Travel Awards and Travvy Awards. Sangster International Airport was named the Caribbean’s Leading Airport for 2024.

Despite a marginal year-over-year dip in arrivals due to global uncertainties—including U.S. election dynamics and travel advisories—Jamaica’s diversification strategy saw strong gains from Canada (+6.2%), Europe (+9.1%), Latin America (+13.2%), and the Caribbean (+25.1%). Strategic upgrades to Norman Manley and Sangster International Airports, alongside Negril’s proposed new international gateway, are expanding Jamaica’s global reach.

Tourism as a Driver of Economic Equity
The Tourism Linkages Network has embedded tourism into the fabric of Jamaica’s economy. Initiatives like the Agri-Linkages Exchange (ALEX) have generated over J$1.2 billion in sales, connecting more than 2,000 farmers with hotels. Meanwhile, J$2.48 billion in loans have been disbursed to over 500 Small and Medium Tourism Enterprises (SMTEs), supporting homegrown businesses in accommodation, culinary arts, and retail.

“More Jamaicans will own, work in, and earn from tourism. That is our vision for shared prosperity.”

With over US$3 billion in resort investments secured and 20,000 new rooms projected over the next decade, the Ministry is ensuring that workers and communities benefit through job creation, housing partnerships, and youth empowerment programmes.