Jamaica Named Caribbean’s Most Connected Destination, Driving Inclusive Tourism Growth

Jamaica has cemented its position as the Caribbean’s most connected destination, achieving record-breaking international linkages while advancing an ambitious agenda for inclusive and sustainable tourism growth.

With projected year-end arrivals reaching 4.5 million, including 3.1 million stopover visitors and 1.4 million cruise passengers, Jamaica now enjoys direct connections to over 55 international gateways. This expanded global reach marks a new regional benchmark and continues to fuel both visitor arrivals and wider economic development.

Speaking at the JAPEX Media Breakfast held in September 2025, at Jewel Grande in Montego Bay, Minister of Tourism, Hon. Edmund Bartlett, remarked, “Jamaica’s rapid expansion in airlift is more than just a milestone for tourism; it’s a catalyst for national transformation. Our vision is clear — tourism must work for all Jamaicans. These investments are creating opportunities for small businesses, communities, and workers, ensuring the benefits of growth are shared equitably across the island.”

Major infrastructure investments are reinforcing this progress. The US$274 million Montego Bay Perimeter Road, now 60 per cent complete, is designed to ease chronic congestion, create new commercial corridors, and ensure smoother travel experiences for residents and visitors alike. Additionally, in partnership with the International Finance Corporation (IFC), Jamaica is expanding key segments of the North Coast Highway. The project will widen crucial stretches from two to four lanes, improving access to destinations such as Montego Bay and Ocho Rios and strengthening economic ties between coastal communities.

“These landmark projects aren’t just roads — they are gateways to greater opportunity,” Minister Bartlett emphasised. “By enhancing connectivity, we’re laying the foundation for tourism that drives jobs, investment, and shared prosperity.”

Jamaica’s inclusive tourism strategy extends beyond infrastructure to workforce empowerment. Over 20,000 workers have been certified through the Jamaica Centre for Tourism Innovation, improving service standards and employability across the sector. Meanwhile, the Tourism Workers Pension Scheme continues to expand, ensuring long-term financial security for thousands of industry professionals.

The Destination Assurance Framework has also been implemented to guarantee quality, safety, and accessibility across Jamaica’s tourism offerings, ensuring that tourism remains an engine of social mobility and economic resilience.

As Jamaica strengthens its standing as a global tourism leader, future initiatives will focus on green investments, technology-driven services, and deeper community partnerships, reinforcing its commitment to sustainable, inclusive growth.

“Connectivity is just the beginning,” Bartlett concluded. “With every new flight, every new road, and every trained worker, we’re building a tourism industry that reflects Jamaica’s spirit — vibrant, world-class, and committed to shared success.”