Bartlett: Tourism industry rebounds strongly, sets new sustainability goals
Jamaica's tourism industry is booming, with 4.27 million visitors and US$4.35 billion in earnings in 2024.

Tourism Minister Edmund Bartlett is optimistic about reaching the goal of 5 million visitors and US$5 billion in revenue by 2025. Despite challenges like travel advisories and weather events, 2024 saw a 5.3% rise in visitors and a 3.3% increase in earnings compared to 2023.
The COVID-19 pandemic had a devastating impact on global tourism, forcing destinations like Jamaica to rebuild from scratch.
Minister Bartlett praised Sandals Resorts International for its significant contribution to the Caribbean tourism industry. He encouraged Sandals to expand globally, bringing its successful Caribbean model to the world.
Tourism is crucial to the Caribbean economy, accounting for over 50% of the region's GDP and employing one in four workers.
Minister Bartlett acknowledged the dedication of Sandals' global sales force in strengthening the brand. He emphasized the importance of people in the tourism industry, even with the rise of artificial intelligence.
Jamaica received accolades in 2024, including World's Leading Family Travel Destination and World's Leading Cruise Destination.