Jamaica welcomes one million visitors in first two months of 2024
MINISTER OF Tourism Edmund Bartlett has announced that Jamaica has welcomed one million visitors and earned US$1 billion in foreign exchange in the first two months of the year. The numbers highlight the impressive growth trajectory of the country’s tourism sector.
The announcement was made during a Caribbean Hotel and Tourist Association (CHTA) Caribbean Travel Marketplace press conference, held last week at the Jamaica Tourist Board office in Kingston.
Speaking at the press conference, Bartlett said, “I am particularly proud of the level of growth we have had post-COVID. Normally 2019 was used as our benchmark for growth, but 2023 is now that new benchmark as we broke two important barriers – welcoming four million visitors and earning $US4.2 billion.
“Against all odds, Jamaica has broken another barrier by welcoming one million visitors and earning one billion (dollars) in foreign exchange the first two months. This is unprecedented in the country’s tourism history,” said Bartlett.
Jamaica recorded 611,642 stopover arrivals, which represents a 7.4 per cent increase and 389,319 cruise visitors, which is a 29.7 per cent increase. Total arrivals reflect 1,000,961, an increase of 15.1 per cent. From these arrival figures the island has earned US$1 billion, which is an impressive increase of 8.5 per cent.
“We continue to work with our tourism partners across the globe to ensure that our tourism offerings remain top of the line. Jamaica provides unique and authentic experiences that keeps visitors coming back,” said Donovan White, director of tourism.
Jamaica will also host the 42nd staging of the most prestigious travel show in the region, Caribbean Travel Marketplace, from May 20-22 at the Montego Bay Convention Centre. The event is expected to attract 150 buyer companies and approximately 1,000 delegates.