Jamaica’s Tourism Minister Ed Bartlett, has been awarded the esteemed Premio Excelencias (Global Excellence) 2024 award for his transformative contributions to the tourism industry.
The accolade, announced by the Caribbean Network Developments (CND), highlights Minister Bartlett’s career-long commitment to sustainable tourism and his visionary leadership on both local and international stages.
The award was presented on Wednesday, January 22, 2025, during the FITUR international tourism trade fair in Madrid, Spain. The prestigious ceremony, attended by industry leaders from around the world, celebrates excellence in tourism and cultural development.
As the Minister of Tourism since 2016, Bartlett’s tenure has been marked by numerous groundbreaking initiatives, including the establishment of the Global Tourism Resilience and Crisis Management Centre. This institution, the first of its kind, focuses on addressing global tourism challenges such as climate change, natural disasters, and pandemics, positioning Jamaica as a thought leader in resilience and sustainability.
“This recognition reflects our nation’s commitment to excellence in tourism,” Minister Bartlett stated. “It is a testament to the collaborative efforts of our entire tourism sector and reinforces Jamaica’s position as a leading destination in the Caribbean region.”
Under his stewardship, Jamaica has consistently broken records for visitor arrivals and tourism revenue. Bartlett’s strategic emphasis on community-based tourism has also created sustainable economic opportunities for Jamaicans, fostering growth and development across the island.
In addition to his work in Jamaica, Minister Bartlett has become an influential voice on the global stage, advocating for inclusive and resilient tourism practices. His leadership and advocacy have earned him several other international accolades, including recognition from the United Nations World Tourism Organization (UNWTO).
The Premio Excelencias 2024 award underscores Ed Bartlett’s enduring impact on the tourism industry, further solidifying Jamaica’s reputation as a global leader in the field. His achievements continue to set a benchmark for sustainable tourism development, inspiring both current and future generations.
