All India, 24 May 2024: The Government of Jamaica is pushing to grow its visitor arrivals and destination presence across the globe, Honourable Minister Bartlett participated in the highly anticipated Arabian Travel Market (ATM) 2024 trade show. Minister Bartlett was joined by Donovan White, Director of Tourism of Jamaica and other representatives from the Jamaica Tourist Board (JTB) for the prestigious event, which was held from May 6 to 9, 2024.

“Participation in the Arabian Travel Market is a key part of our global marketing strategy. There is no other event quite like it, offering an unparalleled platform for exposure and establishing valuable connections within the Middle Eastern travel industry. We look forward to engaging with a diverse range of stakeholders, including media outlets, tour operators, airlines, and potential investors, all with the goal of fostering new collaborations and propelling further growth in Jamaica’s tourism sector.”

Minister Bartlett

During ATM 2024, Tourism Minister Edmund Bartlett announced that Jamaica will continue to initiate efforts in order to build the destination’s presence in new international markets this year. The initiative places special emphasis on India and Latin America, where there is immense potential for both, leisure and business travel. 

New Initiatives in Asia

Jamaica is determined to tap into the India market, recognizing potential of the Indian travellers. Speaking to the progress in Asia, “Recognising India as a high-potential tourism market, we have appointed TRAC Representations (India) as our local market representative. Their role involves engaging with local travel partners and media, fostering trade and consumer awareness of the Jamaican brand, and developing suitable air connectivity options to the island. This strategic partnership seeks to tap into India’s burgeoning travel market and position Jamaica as a desirable destination for Indian travellers.”

Minister Bartlett 

Tourism Growth Opportunities in Latin America

Reporting a 40 per cent increase in arrivals from Latin America, Jamaica welcomed approximately 36,000 visitors from this market in 2023. “Our partnership with Copa Airlines, a key player in this market, has expanded significantly, with daily flights from Panama to both Kingston and Montego Bay. These routes offer convenient connections to destinations such as Colombia, Argentina, Brazil, Peru, Costa Rica, and Mexico — strengthening our accessibility and appeal to Latin American travellers,” said Minister Bartlett.

2024 Vision: Even More in ‘24’

As Jamaica enters 2024, the destination has adopted a new motto: ‘Even More in ‘24’, recognising the transformative power of Jamaica’s tourism industry. 

The interconnected web of the tourism value chain is not just a beacon of hope but a powerful force that fosters positive change and uplifts the lives of the Jamaican people and local businesses.  

Record Breaking Arrival Figures

Jamaica has recorded 1,016,185 stopover arrivals and over 700,000 cruise passengers, earning roughly US$1.8 billion in revenue. This represents a 4.6 per cent increase in stopover arrivals and a 23 per cent increase in cruise passengers compared to the same period in 2023. This announcement was made by Minister of Tourism, Hon. Edmund Bartlett during an interview at ATM 2024.

Jamaica remains a premier destination that is highly sought after for its authentic experiences. Whether it’s the food, music or entertainment, there is a vibe that only comes alive in Jamaica!

About Jamaica Tourist Board

The Jamaica Tourist Board (JTB), founded in 1955, is Jamaica’s national tourism agency based in the capital city of Kingston. JTB offices are also located in Montego Bay, Miami, Toronto and London. Representative offices are located in Berlin, Barcelona, Rome, Amsterdam, New Delhi, Tokyo and Paris.

In 2023, the JTB was declared ‘World’s Leading Cruise Destination’ and ‘World’s Leading Family Destination’ for the fourth consecutive year by the World Travel Awards, which also named it named “Caribbean’s Leading Tourist Board” for the 15th consecutive year, “Caribbean’s Leading Destination” for the 17th consecutive year, and the “Caribbean’s Leading Cruise Destination” in the World Travel Awards – Caribbean.’ In addition, Jamaica was awarded six gold 2023 Travvy Awards, including ‘Best Honeymoon Destination’ ‘Best Tourism Board – Caribbean,’ ‘Best Destination – Caribbean,’ ‘Best Wedding Destination – Caribbean,’ ‘Best Culinary Destination – Caribbean,’ and ‘Best Cruise Destination – Caribbean’ as well as two silver Travvy Awards for ‘Best Travel Agent Academy Program’ and ‘Best Wedding Destination – Overall.’’ It also received a TravelAge West WAVE award for ‘International Tourism Board Providing the Best Travel Advisor Support’ for a record-setting 12th time. TripAdvisor® ranked Jamaica the #7 Best Honeymoon Destination in the World and the #19 Best Culinary Destination in the World for 2024. Jamaica is home to some of the world’s best accommodations, attractions and service providers that continue to receive prominent global recognition and the destination is routinely ranked among the best to visit globally by prestigious international publications.

For details on upcoming special events, attractions and accommodations in Jamaica go to the JTB’s Website at www.visitjamaica.com or call the Jamaican Tourist Board at 1-800-JAMAICA (1-800-526-2422). Follow the JTB on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, Pinterest and YouTube.

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