News Releases

Minister of Tourism, Hon. Edmund Bartlett, announces that a "Local First" policy is coming that will require investors to partner with communities. He was speaking on Wednesday, August 13, 2025, at an event celebrating the completion of the first phase of Vista Montego Bay Resort and the groundbreaking for phase two. The $100 million luxury mixed resort-style residential development is situated on Jimmy Cliff Boulevard.

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"Local First" Policy to Guide Jamaica's Tourism Investments – Bartlett

MONTEGO BAY, Jamaica, Thursday, August 14, 2025: As Jamaica’s pivot toward the luxury tourism market gains momentum, Minister of Tourism, Hon. Edmund Bartlett is reinforcing his strong commitment to a policy that ensures local communities directly benefit from these new developments. He expressed delight that the government has been attracting premium investments, with groundbreaking ceremonies for over US$3.5 billion in tourism developments in the last three months alone. While not disclosing specifics, he mentioned he had just finalized discussions on two more "mega billion-dollar investments."

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Two Cruise Ships to call on Ocho Rios This Week

KINGSTON, Jamaica; September 21, 2021: Minister of Tourism, Hon Edmund Bartlett has revealed that two cruise ships will call on the Ocho Rios Port this week. This development the Minister underscores, is further evidence of the growing demand for destination Jamaica and the success of efforts to reopen the tourism sector.

Bartlett Extends Condolences to Family of Tourism Stalwart Sue McManus

KINGSTON, Jamaica; September 21, 2021: Minister of Tourism, Hon Edmund Bartlett has revealed that two cruise ships will call on the Ocho Rios Port this week. This development the Minister underscores, is further evidence of the growing demand for destination Jamaica and the success of efforts to reopen the tourism sector.

Bartlett Calls for Proactive Global Governance to Boost Resilience of Tourism Sector

KINGSTON, Jamaica; September 16, 2021: Tourism Minister, Hon. Edmund Bartlett says the COVID-19 pandemic has underscored the importance for global tourism policy makers and industry leaders to activate a more proactive and decisive approach, to enhance the sector’s resilience.

Bartlett to Participate in Global Sustainable Travel Forum in Portugal

KINGSTON, Jamaica; September 14, 2021: Tourism Minister, Hon. Edmund Bartlett is set to participate in the highly anticipated ‘A World for Travel – Évora Forum,’ a global sustainable travel industry event, scheduled for September 16 and 17 in Évora, Portugal.

Pre-booked Carnival Cruise Ship to Arrive on Monday, September 13

KINGSTON, Jamaica; September 12, 2021: The Carnival Sunrise cruise ship is scheduled to arrive in Ocho Rios on Monday, September 13, 2021 with approximately 1,700 cruise passengers onboard.

Tourism Officials Mourn Passing of Beloved Songbird Karen Smith

KINGSTON, Jamaica; September 11, 2021: Minister of Tourism, Hon. Edmund Bartlett and other tourism officials are mourning the passing of well-known and beloved singer, Karen Smith. Smith, who performed for decades as a cabaret singer across all resort areas, passed away earlier today.

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