Jamaica's tourism industry is celebrating remarkable achievements as it welcomes one million visitors and earns an astounding one billion US dollars in foreign exchange within the first two months of this year. These impressive figures, announced by Minister of Tourism, Hon Edmund Bartlett, during a press conference at the Jamaica Tourist Board office in Kingston, underscore the remarkable growth trajectory of the country's tourism sector.

Minister Bartlett expressed his pride in the substantial growth achieved post-COVID, emphasizing that 2023 has now become the new benchmark year. Previously, 2019 served as the benchmark, but Jamaica surpassed expectations by welcoming four million visitors and earning an impressive $4.2 billion.

The recent accomplishment of reaching one million visitors and generating one billion in earnings within just two months is unprecedented in Jamaica's tourism history, according to Minister Bartlett.

Minister of Tourism, Hon Edmund Bartlett, delivered his presentation during the Caribbean Hotel and Tourist Association (CHTA) Caribbean Travel Marketplace press conference at the Jamaica Tourist Board Office in Kingston yesterday. Also present were Mrs. Nicola Madden-Grieg, President of the CHTA, and Mr. Robin Russell, President of the Jamaica Hotel and Tourist Association (JHTA), who shared in the momentous occasion.

Jamaica witnessed a notable increase in both stopover and cruise arrivals, with stopover arrivals rising by 7.4% to reach 611,642 and cruise visitors surging by 29.7% to reach 389,319. In total, arrivals amounted to 1,000,961, marking a significant 15.1% increase. These arrivals contributed to the island's impressive earnings of one billion US dollars, reflecting an 8.5% increase.

Donovan White, Director of Tourism, attributed Jamaica's success to its ongoing collaboration with tourism partners worldwide and its commitment to offering unique and authentic experiences that keep visitors returning.

Furthermore, Jamaica is set to host the prestigious Caribbean Travel Marketplace from May 20-22 at the Montego Bay Convention Centre. This event, expected to attract 150 buyer companies and around 1000 delegates, highlights Jamaica's growing prominence in the travel industry.

The Jamaica Tourist Board, founded in 1955 and headquartered in Kingston, continues to play a pivotal role in promoting Jamaica as a top tourist destination. With offices in key locations like Montego Bay, Miami, Toronto, and international representative offices, the JTB has been consistently recognized for its excellence. In 2022, it received numerous accolades at the World Travel Awards and Travvy Awards, further cementing Jamaica's position as a world-class tourist destination.

As Jamaica continues to attract visitors with its exceptional offerings, the nation reaffirms its status as a leading player in the global tourism landscape.