Social problems could inhibit progress
Jamaican tourism was responsible for 7 percent of the country’s economic growth last year, said Minister of Tourism and Entertainment Wykeham McNeill.
“From April 2013 to March 2014, we had 2,007,175 stayover visitors and 1,240,484 cruise ship visitors, which earned in excess of US$2.1 billion in gross foreign exchange earnings for Jamaica,” the minister said, according to the Jamaica Information Service.
“No other sector offers the possibility of successful investment to entrepreneurs at all levels. It is truly an inclusive industry,” said McNeill.
Director of Tourism Paul Pennicook said tour group operators and others in the hospitality industry contributed to the uptick. “These are the persons who sell travel on behalf of Jamaica,” he said. “Many persons marvel that despite our challenges, Jamaica remains a top destination in the region.”
Marking the 60th anniversary of the Jamaica Tourism Board, McNeill said. “We cannot take continued progress for granted. We are competing against the world in the most competitive industry. We also have our local problems, which can create a negative social impact on the industry… Given this reality, the JTB intends to celebrate its 60th anniversary in a discussion with the Jamaican people about charting a way forward as we seek to continue to diversify our product, improve our competitiveness and broaden the base of ownership to make the tourist industry even more inclusive.”
The tourism economy is expected to get a boost from new casinos in the country. In 2010 a casino bill was signed into law, paving the way for casinos in Montego Bay and Trelawny.
