Jamaica Welcomes 55,000 Visitors Post-Hurricane Beryl, Showcasing Industry Resilience

Kingston, Jamaica – In a testament to its resilience and appeal, Jamaica welcomed 55,000 visitors between July 4 and 10, signaling a strong recovery of the tourism industry following the impact of Hurricane Beryl. The announcement was made by Tourism Minister, Hon. Edmund Bartlett, during his address at the opening ceremony of the Christmas in July trade show on July 11.

The trade show, now in its 10th year, is being held at the National Arena from July 11 to 12 and features 205 artisans. Minister Bartlett revealed that there were no tourist arrivals on July 2 and 3, but the island began receiving visitors again on July 4, with numbers increasing steadily over six days.

“That is what resilience is about where you can say… 80 per cent of our resources is intact, so you can come, and they came because they have confidence in the promise that we make, because of the integrity of that promise,” Minister Bartlett stated. He emphasized that Jamaica’s recovery is built on trust and the nation’s ability to maintain a significant portion of its tourism infrastructure despite natural disasters.

Minister Bartlett outlined the sustainability plan for the tourism industry, which includes key strategies such as training and development, upskilling, and expanding the production of authentic Jamaican goods and services. Additionally, the plan focuses on broadening credit and debt arrangements and enhancing marketing and networking opportunities for entrepreneurs within the sector.

He highlighted that Jamaica’s success in attracting record numbers of visitors goes beyond its natural beauty, acknowledging the vital role of the artisanal community in the island’s tourism product. Minister Bartlett commended the small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) that are critical drivers of the industry’s future.

“I want to thank all of you for the work that you have done with us in 10 years to make Christmas in July the exciting and expanded opportunity that is now here for our small and medium enterprises,” he said, expressing gratitude to the event organizers and participants.

The Christmas in July trade show is a collaborative effort of the Tourism Linkages Network, a division of the Tourism Enhancement Fund (TEF), along with its partners—the Jamaica Business Development Corporation (JBDC), the Jamaica Hotel and Tourist Association (JHTA), Jamaica Promotions Corporation (JAMPRO), and the Jamaica Manufacturers and Exporters Association (JMEA).

As Jamaica continues to rebuild and enhance its tourism sector, the successful hosting of events like Christmas in July highlights the island’s dedication to supporting local artisans and SMEs, ensuring a robust and sustainable tourism industry for years to come.

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