Tourism Minister of Jamaica Expresses Gratitude to Travel Advisors and Urges for Sustainable Growth in Unity

Jamaica’s Minister of Tourism Calls for Sustainable Practices and Thanks Travel Advisors

The Hon. Edmund Bartlett, Minister of Tourism for Jamaica, expressed his gratitude towards travel advisors for their role in helping Jamaica recover from the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic. Speaking at a luncheon honoring top travel advisors in Northeast America, Bartlett emphasized the importance of their efforts in promoting Jamaica as a safe and desirable destination.

Reflecting on the challenges faced during the pandemic, Bartlett highlighted the crucial role played by travel advisors in selling the destination and reassuring clients about safety measures. Jamaica reopened its borders on June 15, 2020, with stringent health and safety protocols in place. Within a year of reopening, the island welcomed one million visitors, with 80 percent coming from the United States. In 2023, out of the 4.1 million travelers to Jamaica, 3 million were from the U.S., indicating the strong appeal of the Caribbean nation.

Minister Bartlett also addressed the United Nations’ first-ever Sustainability Week in New York, advocating for a global effort towards sustainable tourism development. He emphasized the importance of implementing policies that promote sustainability and resilience, especially in Small Island Developing States (SIDS).

Bartlett proposed the establishment of a Global Tourism Resilience Fund to support vulnerable destinations in preparing for future crises and promoting sustainable practices. This fund would enable countries reliant on tourism to develop long-term economic viability while safeguarding natural resources and cultural heritage.

Minister Bartlett’s call for sustainable tourism practices and international cooperation underscores Jamaica’s commitment to a resilient and prosperous future for all nations dependent on tourism.