Jamaica’s Minister of Tourism, the Honourable Edmund Bartlett, has extended congratulations to Chris Jarrett on his recent election as President of the Jamaica Hotel and Tourist Association (JHTA), reaffirming the Ministry’s commitment to working in close partnership with the association to advance Jamaica’s tourism industry.
“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 revitalise our tourism industry, and I am confident that under this new leadership, we will achieve even greater heights.”
Minister Bartlett emphasized the JHTA’s important role in representing the interests of Jamaica’s hospitality sector—an industry that remains a cornerstone of the country’s economy, employing thousands and contributing significantly to GDP.
“The challenges and opportunities facing our tourism sector require strong leadership and collaborative partnerships,” he noted. “The JHTA’s advocacy for sustainable tourism practices, workforce development, and infrastructure improvements aligns perfectly with our national tourism strategy.”
He reiterated the government’s focus on strengthening Jamaica’s tourism product through continued investments in infrastructure, marketing, and workforce development. He also commended the JHTA for promoting responsible tourism and environmental stewardship throughout the 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,” Minister Bartlett added. “Together, we will continue to position Jamaica as a world-class destination that offers authentic experiences while ensuring sustainable growth for our communities.”
Director of Tourism, Donovan White, also welcomed the new leadership, stating, “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.”
