“I am delighted to congratulate the new leadership of the JHTA and look forward to working closely together as we continue to strengthen Jamaica’s position as the premier Caribbean destination,” said Minister Bartlett. “The JHTA has been an invaluable partner in our journey to rebuild and revitalize our tourism industry, and I am confident that under this new leadership, we will achieve even greater heights.”
The Minister highlighted the critical role that the JHTA plays in representing the interests of Jamaica’s hospitality sector, which remains one of the country’s most important economic pillars. The tourism industry directly and indirectly employs thousands of Jamaicans and contributes significantly to the island’s GDP.
“The challenges and opportunities facing our tourism sector require strong leadership and collaborative partnerships.”
Minister Bartlett noted, “The JHTA’s advocacy for sustainable tourism practices, workforce development, and infrastructure improvements aligns perfectly with our national tourism strategy.”
The Minister emphasized the government’s commitment to supporting initiatives that enhance Jamaica’s tourism product, including investments in infrastructure, marketing, and human capital development. He also acknowledged the association’s role in promoting responsible tourism practices and environmental stewardship across the hospitality sector.
“As we look toward the future, I welcome the innovative approaches and fresh perspectives that the new JHTA leadership will bring to our sector,” said Minister Bartlett. “Together, we will continue to position Jamaica as a world-class destination that offers authentic experiences while ensuring sustainable growth for our communities.”
“The Jamaica Tourist Board looks forward to continued collaboration with the JHTA on key initiatives, including marketing campaigns, product development, and policy formulation that will benefit the entire tourism ecosystem,” said Donovan White, Director of Tourism.
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 in Berlin, Barcelona, Rome, Amsterdam, Mumbai, Tokyo, Paris and the Gulf Cooperation Council.
Jamaica is home to some of the world’s best accommodations, attractions and service providers that continue to receive prominent global recognition. In 2025, TripAdvisor® ranked Jamaica as the #13 Best Honeymoon Destination, #11 Best Culinary Destination, and #24 Best Cultural Destination in the World. In 2024, Jamaica was declared ‘World’s Leading Cruise Destination’ and ‘World’s Leading Family Destination’ for the fifth consecutive year by the World Travel Awards, which also named the JTB the ‘Caribbean’s Leading Tourist Board’ for the 17th consecutive year.
Jamaica earned six Travvy Awards, including a gold for ‘Best Travel Agent Academy Program’ and silver for ‘Best Culinary Destination – Caribbean’ and ‘Best Tourism Board – Caribbean’. The destination also received bronze recognition for ‘Best Destination – Caribbean’, ‘Best Wedding Destination – Caribbean’, and ‘Best Honeymoon Destination – Caribbean’. Additionally, Jamaica received a TravelAge West WAVE award for ‘International Tourism Board Providing the Best Travel Advisor Support’ for a record-setting 12th time.
For details on upcoming special events, attractions and accommodations in Jamaica go to the JTB’s website or call the Jamaica Tourist Board at 1-800-JAMAICA (1-800-526-2422). Follow the JTB on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, Pinterest and YouTube. View the JTB blog here.
