MONTEGO BAY, Jamaica; Monday, December 9, 2024: Minister of Tourism, Hon Edmund Bartlett has reinforced his advocacy for the transformation of the tourism sector through technology while observing that: “We are on the cusp of a new era – one where technology and tourism intertwine to create experiences that are more enriching, accessible, and sustainable than ever before.”

Stating that over the decades, technology has revolutionized the tourism industry in more ways than could have been imagined, Minister Bartlett welcomed innovators of TechBeach Jamaica, which staged its 7th annual international retreat at Secrets Resort from December 4-6, 2024. He lauded co-founders, Jamaican Kirk Hamilton and Trinidadian Kyle Maloney as “visionary minds and trailblazers who are shaping the future of technology and its intersection with tourism.”

TechBeach is a premier technology conference that connects the Caribbean’s tech ecosystem with major global technology hubs, and is seen by Minister Bartlett as not just an event but a catalyst for innovation, collaboration and investment.

He cited that AI-powered chatbots and virtual assistants were now enhancing customer service, providing real-time assistance to travellers worldwide, noting that technological advancements such as Internet of Things (IoT) driven devices, blockchain and robotics were democratic and empowering; lowering barriers to entry, allowing small businesses and entrepreneurs in Jamaica to compete on a global stage.

Noting that digital technologies have opened doors for individuals to offer unique services, create innovative products, and reach markets previously inaccessible, Minister Bartlett pointed to “a wealth of opportunities for our people in Jamaica to become entrepreneurs in the tourism space.”

He identified “opportunities in developing mobile applications that enhance visitor experience, creating virtual reality tours of cultural and historical sites, online booking and reservation platforms for local attractions, digital marketing services to small tourism businesses and establishing online marketplaces for authentic Jamaican crafts and products.”

Minister Bartlett also pointed to opportunities in utilizing drones for aerial photography and videography to promote destinations, implementing AI-powered customer service solutions for hospitality business and developing sustainable tourism initiatives using IoT for energy efficiency.

“As we look to the future, it is clear that technology will continue to play a pivotal role in shaping tourism,” said Mr. Bartlett, as he encouraged tech firms, innovators and entrepreneurs to recognize the immense value proposition of the tourism space. “Your expertise and creativity are needed to develop goods and services that will enhance visitor experiences, improve operational efficiencies, and contribute to the sustainable growth of the industry,” he advised.

Minister Bartlett urged the TechBeach partners and their global, regional and local sponsors: “Let us work together to harness the power of digital technologies, to empower our people, to captivate our visitors, and to elevate Jamaica’s position as a leader in tourism innovation.”

FALMOUTH, Jamaica; Friday, December 6, 2024: With Jamaica having welcomed 1.1 million cruise passengers since the start of the year, the 2024/2025 cruise tourism season got off to a strong start with ten vessels calling on the three main resort ports, with some 34,519 passengers and a combined crew of 13,137 between December 2 and 5, 2024.

The most recent vessels to dock created history for the port of Falmouth on Thursday December 5, when the Disney Treasure, the latest in the Disney Cruise Line fleet, made its inaugural Caribbean call on that town, concurrently with Royal Caribbean Cruise Line’s Celebrity Ascent also on its inaugural visit.

Minister of Tourism, Hon Edmund Bartlett has hailed the early and robust start to the season as further proof of the recovery of the cruise sub-sector, which suffered a major setback in 2020 when the COVID-19 pandemic caused a total shutdown of the sector for some 17 months. Major cruise lines had suspended operations from mid-March 2020 until August 2021 when they gradually began to resume visits with new health and safety protocols in place.

Minister Bartlett noted that the 1.1 million cruise passengers so far this year matched the record number secured in 2019, for the same period.

In an impromptu press conference on board Disney Treasure on Thursday, Mr. Bartlett stated that: “The cruise winter season has literally started this week and it has started with a bang. Today we have the historic double inauguration of two ships in a single port here in Falmouth.”

He said the close to 7,000 passengers on the two vessels was significant for a single day in Falmouth. Meanwhile, the Carnival Legend was docked in the Montego Bay Cruise Ship Pier with another 2,183 passengers and 918 crew members. 

The Minister noted that from December 2 to 4 the Falmouth port also had cruise calls from MSC Seascape, Independence of the Seas, Nieuw Amsterdam, Freedom of the Seas and another vessel. Ocho Rios had Carnival Horizon and Emerald Princess, while Montego Bay berthed Carnival Legend on December 5.

“The start of this season is early and strong and we’re anticipating maximum disembarkation. We’re told we’re up to 90 percent disembarkation now, and that’s good, so we’re looking forward to more activity in the towns Falmouth, Montego Bay and Ocho Rios.

Meanwhile, Minister Bartlett headed a group of specially invited guests on a tour of Disney Treasure following a welcome reception and exchange of gifts with the ship’s Captain Marco Nogara who was supported by Co-captain Disney cartoon’s Minnie. Captain Nogara said “we’re here today and it will not be our last.” Disney Treasure will return to the Port of Falmouth in two weeks.

MONTEGO BAY, Jamaica; Thursday, December 5, 2024: The Ministry of Tourism is moving to position the hospitality sector to attract more luxurious developments similar to the US$450-million Montego Bay Pinnacle luxury lifestyle development currently under construction on the city’s western coastline.

“We are now looking at how to enable more of this type of investment that LCH Developments has brought to Jamaica,” said Minister of Tourism, Hon. Edmund Bartlett at a landmark conference on branded real estate development, hosted by the Pinnacle developers at the Montego Bay Convention Centre yesterday (December 4).

“This for us, is a pivotal point, and whilst we are going to be continuing to build out the elements of tourism that drive the demand for more production in various areas of the economy, we’re going to be placing concerted focus on luxury tourism as a critical part of the differentiation of the Jamaican experience,” he added.

Minister Bartlett said this was in keeping with the Blue Ocean Strategy for growth that the Ministry of Tourism and its public bodies developed in 2021. That strategy speaks to reimagining Jamaica's tourism by identifying and establishing “innovative policies, systems, protocols, and standards that assure our visitors a safer, secure, and seamless experience, while building out a new national tourism model, based on a diversified portfolio of unique and authentic attractions and activities, which draw heavily on Jamaica's natural and cultural assets.”

Minister Bartlett envisaged that the Blue Ocean strategy would “lay the foundation for the emergence of a new, more inclusive form of tourism.” He told conference participants that “operating under the Blue Ocean Strategy demands of us that we pivot in this direction” and congratulated Pinnacle “as the new pioneer in this pivot.” 

He added that “we’re excited about the prospect of you being able to bring new demographics into Jamaica, but more importantly, to have Jamaicans investing in this whole area so that the ownership of tourism becomes more and more that of the people of Jamaica.”

Speaking to the need for “building out a luxury experience in Jamaica,” the tourism minister said “we have, in the last 20 years, tinkered around it and we really haven’t done enough to create that luxury experience with the kind of structure and the investment that is required for it. Also, the type of regulatory and legislative arrangements that surround it, so in the new approach that we’re looking at, we’re going to pivot.”

He posited that attracting this demographic in the tourism space would create more demand for goods and services from various sub-sectors, boosting consumption in both quantity and quality resulting in higher returns, which also offers more employment opportunities. He stated that: “we are going to have to zone our areas and develop specific areas for different types of products, St. Thomas is being positioned for luxury tourism development as well.”

Mr. Bartlett said with the four expansive 28-story Pinnacle towers, with 423 residences ranging from one-bedroom apartments to lavish penthouses, as well as 15 exclusive villas, LCH was setting the stage for that type of development. With news that a European company will soon be announced as the operator for the hotel-style services in three of the towers, Minister Bartlett said “we wanted to position you as being at the hub of this pivot in luxury tourism in Jamaica.”

MONTEGO BAY, JAMAICA – December 04, 2024 – LATAM Airlines has successfully resumed flights between Lima, Peru and Montego Bay, Jamaica, marking a significant milestone in Caribbean-Latin American air connectivity. The first flight, which arrived at full capacity at Sangster International Airport on Sunday, December 01, 2024, represents a major step in Jamaica's strategic expansion into the Latin American market.

Operating three times weekly on Thursdays, Saturdays, and Sundays, the route is projected to bring 45,000 visitors in its first year.

"We have managed this industry to world-class standards, doubling our arrivals in Jamaica in eight years. Even after facing the most existential threat to humanity with COVID, we have bounced back to 4.3 million visitors and US$4.5 billion in earnings," shared Hon. Edmund Bartlett, Minister of Tourism.

The Minister added, "The South American market represents the next frontier for Jamaica's tourism growth. Through LATAM's Lima hub and our ongoing discussions with other carriers, we are positioning Jamaica to become the number one Caribbean destination for South American visitors."

Donovan White, Director of Tourism, noted, "This air connectivity represents more than just a new route - it is a gateway to the entire South American region and its collective population of over 700 million people. Through LATAM's extensive network operating from their Lima hub, connecting to over 20 destinations across South America, Jamaica becomes more accessible to millions of potential visitors."

The service launch was celebrated with ceremonies in both Lima and Montego Bay, attended by government officials from both countries, aviation executives, and tourism stakeholders. Plans are already in place to increase the frequency to daily service by summer 2025.

Kingston, Jamaica; Thursday, November 28, 2024: Minister of Tourism, Hon. Edmund Bartlett, was awarded the prestigious Gusi Peace Prize in Manila on Wednesday, November 27, 2024, in recognition of his outstanding contributions to the global tourism industry. This distinguished accolade, often referred to as Asia’s equivalent of the Nobel Peace Prize, celebrates excellence in various fields, including peace, human rights, politics, science, and the arts. Minister Bartlett’s award highlights his leadership in championing tourism resilience and sustainability, particularly in small island developing states, and underscores his commitment to advancing global cooperation in the tourism sector.

The award comes as part of the ongoing four-day Gusi Peace Prize event, which will conclude on November 28, 2024, and sees global figures from various sectors gathered to network and explore solutions to some of the world’s most pressing challenges.

In expressing his gratitude after accepting the award, Minister Bartlett said:
“Receiving the Gusi Peace Prize is a humbling and deeply inspiring honour. This recognition belongs not just to me but to the people of Jamaica, whose innovation, resilience, and cultural richness are at the heart of all I do. It highlights how tourism, when approached thoughtfully, can transform communities and inspire unity worldwide.”

On the margins of the awards ceremony, Minister Bartlett also led a series of high-level discussions with representatives of the Department of Tourism in the Philippines, focusing on the possibility of signing a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to foster greater cooperation between the two countries in the tourism industry. The proposed MOU will focus on several key areas that will drive mutual growth and innovation.

Minister Bartlett highlighted the importance of human capital development as a key pillar of the potential agreement, citing the Philippines’ success in training over 170,000 tourism workers annually. He noted that this collaboration would help Jamaica strengthen its tourism workforce by enhancing service excellence across the island.
“The Department of Tourism in the Philippines has done remarkable work in training tourism workers and certifying them in service excellence. We look forward to collaborating with them to further strengthen service excellence in Jamaica, which is at the core of the visitor experience,” he added.

Additionally, the proposed MOU will address craft development, where both countries will exchange expertise in utilizing indigenous materials to create value-added products. Minister Bartlett expressed excitement about the potential for Jamaican artisans to explore new creative possibilities, particularly through the exchange of knowledge with Filipino artisans who have successfully used local resources such as pineapple and banana fibres to create garments and other items. Concerning this, the tourism minister noted: “Our artisans can benefit immensely from learning how to transform waste and widely available materials, such as coffee and bananas, into high-quality products. The Philippines has done marvellous work in this area, and we look forward to collaborating with them to bring new value to our own rich natural resources.”

Furthermore, the MOU will also prioritize sustainability and resilience initiatives, with the establishment of a Global Tourism Resilience and Crisis Management Centre (GTRCMC) at the University of Manila. Minister Bartlett emphasized that this collaboration would strengthen efforts to build more resilient tourism frameworks and improve sustainability across both nations. The two countries also discussed enhancing community tourism, with Minister Bartlett suggesting that there is great potential for collaboration in developing village tourism—a model which has seen success in the Philippines and could further enrich Jamaica’s own community-based tourism initiatives.

The discussions also touched on the potential for improved air connectivity between Jamaica and the Philippines, with opportunities to connect Jamaica with key destinations in Asia, including Japan, Singapore, Thailand, and Taiwan. The tourism minister noted that these efforts could significantly increase tourism arrivals, benefiting both countries’ economies.

Minister Bartlett concluded by announcing that the Secretary of Tourism for the Philippines, Hon. Christina Garcia-Frasco, is expected to visit Jamaica in February 2025, where the details of the MOU will be further discussed, and an agreement finalized during the 3rd Global Tourism Resilience Conference. The conference is slated to be held from February 17-19, 2025, at the Princess Grand Jamaica Resort in Negril.

Kingston, Jamaica; Monday, November 25, 2024: Minister of Tourism, Hon. Edmund Bartlett, yesterday (November 24) departed the island for Manila, the Philippines, to attend the 2024 Gusi Peace Prize International Awards. This prestigious global event honours individuals and organizations for significant contributions to peace, human rights, and global progress. 

Minister Bartlett will be recognized for his transformative work in the global tourism sector, becoming one of the few Jamaican recipients of this esteemed accolade. The Tourism Minister was previously recognized by the Gusi Peace Prize Foundation in 2020.

In expressing his gratitude, Minister Bartlett remarked: “Receiving the Gusi Peace Prize is a humbling and deeply inspiring honour. This recognition belongs not just to me but to the people of Jamaica, whose innovation, resilience, and cultural richness are at the heart of all I do. It highlights how tourism when approached thoughtfully, can transform communities and inspire unity worldwide.”

The Gusi Peace Prize, often likened to Asia’s Nobel Peace Prize, celebrates excellence across diverse fields such as politics, science, medicine, and the arts. It underscores values of Godliness, Unification, Service, and Internationalism. Minister Bartlett’s recognition affirms Jamaica’s growing influence in sustainable tourism, resilience building, and global collaboration. The five-day event will commence tonight, November 25, and will conclude with a farewell dinner on November 28.

Minister Bartlett, a global thought leader in tourism resilience and founder of the Global Tourism Resilience and Crisis Management Centre, has been pivotal in shaping sustainable practices and disaster recovery frameworks within the industry. His leadership has enhanced Jamaica’s reputation as a hub for innovative tourism strategies, earning accolades from organizations worldwide.

Over the years, the Gusi Peace Prize has celebrated figures dedicated to improving humanity. Minister Bartlett reflected on its legacy, stating: “The Gusi Peace Prize represents a beacon of hope and global collaboration. It amplifies the extraordinary contributions of those working tirelessly to advance peace, dignity, and progress. It is truly a privilege to stand alongside this year’s honourees and continue championing the positive change tourism can bring.”

Minister Bartlett is expected to return to Jamaica on Saturday, November 30.

Kingston, Jamaica; Wednesday, November 13, 2024: Minister of Tourism, Hon. Edmund Bartlett, departed the island today for Cartagena de Indias, Colombia, to represent Jamaica at the United Nations (UN) Tourism’s 122nd Executive Council Meeting, which will be held from November 13–15, 2024. Jamaica, which proudly holds the position of Second Vice Chair on the UN Tourism Executive Council, will play an instrumental role in shaping the direction of the global tourism agenda. 

With this in mind, Minister Bartlett expressed his optimism about Jamaica’s participation, stating: “As Second Vice Chair, Jamaica is uniquely positioned to contribute to a forward-looking global tourism strategy that emphasizes sustainability and innovation. This meeting will also allow us to further advocate for Caribbean and small-island interests on an international scale, ensuring that tourism continues to be a powerful tool for economic prosperity in our region.”

Minister Bartlett will join other global tourism leaders to discuss pivotal topics regarding sustainable tourism, community development, and investment. This year’s session will feature critical discussions on innovation, sustainable tourism practices, and regional development, including the highly anticipated UN Tourism Global Investment and Innovation Forum.

In addition to the Executive Council sessions, the three-day programme will feature several important events and networking opportunities. Highlights include the “UN Tourism Tech Adventure: Colombia Community Challenge,” the “Best Tourism Villages 2024” awards ceremony, as well as discussions on aligning tourism practices with the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). 

The tourism minister further stressed the importance of the event, noting that: “Jamaica’s commitment to sustainable tourism goes beyond our borders, and this event provides an excellent opportunity to share best practices while gaining valuable insights into innovative solutions for our own tourism sector. Together with our neighbours in other destinations across the world, we can bolster the sector’s contribution to global development and resilience.”

Minister Bartlett is scheduled to return to Jamaica on November 15, 2024. 

London, England; Monday, November 5, 2024: Tourism Minister Hon. Edmund Bartlett has underscored the need for a stronger and more cohesive tourism strategy across Commonwealth nations to leverage the immense potential for economic and social development. Speaking at the prestigious International Tourism and Investment Conference (ITIC) Global Tourism Investment Summit at the Queen Elizabeth II Centre in London, England, Minister Bartlett called on Commonwealth countries to join forces in making tourism a transformative driver of inclusive growth.

“The Commonwealth, with its 2.7 billion people across 56 diverse nations, represents one of the most potent platforms for economic collaboration in the world,” said Minister Bartlett. “Not only are we spread across continents—from Africa to the Pacific—but 60% of our population is under 29. This youth demographic represents a powerful force for innovation, adaptability, and growth in tourism,” he noted, emphasizing the dynamic and youthful makeup of Commonwealth citizens.

The ITIC Global Tourism Investment Summit is an annual gathering that brings together key stakeholders, including tourism ministers, industry leaders and potential investors, to discuss investment opportunities in sustainable tourism. Bartlett utilized this platform to spotlight the Commonwealth’s unique ability to use tourism as a means to foster economic resilience and elevate its geopolitical influence on the world stage.

Highlighting the substantial economic landscape of the Commonwealth, Minister Bartlett added, “Our combined GDP reached approximately $14.2 trillion in 2022, with a trajectory toward $20 trillion by 2029. This reflects not only the economic scale but the diversity among member nations, from large economies like India and the UK to our smaller island states.” 

Intra-Commonwealth trade, which reached $854 billion in 2022, is projected to exceed $1 trillion by 2026, offering vast potential for growth in sectors such as tourism, food trade, foreign direct investment and services.

Minister Bartlett also advocated for using tourism as a soft power tool to strengthen the Commonwealth’s standing globally. “Tourism not only transfers wealth quickly but does so in a way that directly benefits communities at all levels. When tourists arrive, they contribute immediately to local economies, bringing revenue to ordinary people,” he explained. He encouraged the Commonwealth Secretariat to lead the charge in enhancing visitor facilitation, open skies agreements, visa liberalization and technology integration to boost connectivity among member states.

In his vision, Bartlett spoke passionately about the possibilities for multi-destination tourism within the Commonwealth. “Our member countries have a rich cultural and social diversity that is tailor-made for experiential tourism. Commonwealth travellers can have unique experiences across the Caribbean, Africa and the Pacific without encountering the same setting twice. This type of multi-destination tourism allows regions to come together to create package offerings that provide tourists with diverse experiences in one trip,” he said.

Bartlett further highlighted advancements in aviation as an untapped opportunity to facilitate greater travel within the Commonwealth. “Today’s aviation technology enables larger, fuel-efficient aircraft to cover vast distances in shorter times. This is an exciting moment for the Commonwealth to harness these advancements, making it easier for our citizens to travel across our diverse nations and enjoy the wonders of different cultures,” he added.

In closing, Minister Bartlett called for Commonwealth leaders to recognize tourism as an essential pillar for economic resilience and growth. “His Majesty the King has spoken of a ‘stronger Commonwealth,’ and tourism can play a pivotal role in realizing that vision. By investing in tourism infrastructure, human capital development and collaborative initiatives, we can strengthen our economies and foster deeper connections among our people.”

Minister Bartlett’s remarks at the ITIC Summit reflect Jamaica’s commitment to building partnerships and exploring new avenues for tourism-driven economic growth. The call for Commonwealth unity in tourism signals a progressive approach that seeks to create wealth, sustain cultural heritage, and bring economic prosperity to all member nations.

KINGSTON, Jamaica; Tuesday, November 5, 2024: Minister of Tourism, Hon. Edmund Bartlett, has continued to advocate for the importance of tourism-dependent destinations owning the supply side of the industry to increase investments and earnings. Speaking at the International Tourism and Investment Conference (ITIC) Global Tourism Investment Summit in London yesterday, the Minister highlighted that owning the supply side has the potential to create favourable conditions for investors and to retain more of the foreign exchange earned locally from the industry.

“Tourism owns nothing yet depends on every other sector and industry to operate, and this is where we can capitalize on increasing the earnings. Our farmers, manufacturers, and creatives can supply the increasing demands within tourism with their goods and services and earn more, leading to a greater retention of the dollar,” said Minister Bartlett.

Minister Bartlett was participating in the summit’s Investment Ministerial Panel under the theme: “The responsibility of governments to develop a strategic plan for an investment-focused tourism agenda of the future.” The panel included Ms. Mariana Oleskiv, Chairperson, State Agency for Tourism Development, Ukraine; Hon. Rebecca Miano, Cabinet Secretary for Tourism and Wildlife, Kenya; Hon. Vera Kamtukule, Minister of Tourism, Malawi; and Siby Diabira, Senior Manager, Western Europe, International Finance Corporation (IFC).

“Focusing on the supply side can also be used to attract more investment for tourism infrastructure by streamlining processes for potential investors. This approach represents a paradigm shift in how we attract tourism investment. Instead of solely focusing on demand generation through marketing, we can create the conditions that make our region irresistible to strategic investors,” the tourism minister noted.

“To also support greater access to our tourism value chain by retaining more of the foreign exchange earned, we established the Tourism Linkages Network to strengthen the partnership between tourism and other sectors like agriculture and manufacturing to ensure more local production. The more we can provide locally for the demands of tourism, the more we can generate wealth for our local suppliers and communities,” added Minister Bartlett.

The ITIC summit is a highly anticipated annual event on the World Travel Market (WTM) calendar that brings together tourism ministers, industry leaders, and developers from the tourism, travel, and hospitality sectors to connect with potential investors. It is a platform to promote global awareness and investment in sustainable tourism projects worldwide.

The Minister is leading a delegation at the 2024 WTM scheduled for November 5-7. WTM London is the most influential travel and tourism event globally. The popular event brings together the international leisure travel community, providing inspiration, education, sourcing, and benchmarking to travel professionals while providing exhibitors a place to do business and showcase their services to the international press.

London, England; Monday, November 4, 2024: Minister of Tourism Hon. Edmund Bartlett has arrived in London to lead Jamaica’s delegation at the 2024 World Travel Market (WTM) scheduled for November 5-7. This significant event will bring together global leaders in travel and tourism, providing a powerful platform to advance Jamaica’s tourism objectives, strengthen alliances, and explore new growth opportunities across markets.

“WTM London is a cornerstone event in the global tourism calendar. Our participation underscores Jamaica’s dedication to enhancing its presence not only in the UK and Europe but also in emerging markets around the world. By actively engaging in this forum, we are strengthening Jamaica’s position as a world-class destination and driving our ambitious goals to achieve five million visitors annually and $5 billion in earnings by 2025,” underscored Minister Bartlett. 

Over the three-day event, Minister Bartlett and senior JTB representatives will engage in high-level discussions with tourism executives from TUI Group, World 2 Meet, Virgin Atlantic, and Blue Diamond Resorts, and will participate in a UN Tourism-WTTC Ministers’ Summit on fostering economic growth through tourism.

In light of this, Minister Bartlett emphasized the importance of this year’s participation, stating, “The World Travel Market allows us to deepen our engagement within this market, which remains crucial to our tourism economy. At the same time, we are strategically broadening our appeal to high-potential regions like Latin America and Asia. This diversification is key to making Jamaica’s tourism sector resilient and adaptable in an evolving global environment.”

The tourism minister also noted Jamaica’s tourism sector is currently experiencing steady growth, with projections for 2024 visitor arrivals set to increase by 5.3% over last year, bringing in approximately $US4.35 billion in earnings. 

Minister Bartlett’s itinerary includes key engagements at WTM, a Bloomberg-hosted dinner on the “Business of Travel,” and high-profile media interviews with Reuters and BBC HARDtalk, highlighting Jamaica’s innovations in sustainable tourism and its role as a leader in the Caribbean. A special event highlighting Jamaican culture and cuisine will also be held at the Jamaica Stand, featuring a carnival celebration to engage attendees with the vibrant spirit and culture of the island.

Minister Bartlett is set to return to Jamaica on November 10.