ST JAMES, Jamaica (JIS) – Prime Minister Portia Simpson Miller, says Jamaica is on a mission to meet its growth projections to build the economy and improve the quality of life for all citizens of the country.

“As we move to achieve this goal, we have kept sharp focus on creating a more vibrant economic environment in our country for businesses, whether small, medium or large, local or foreign. Our goal is to facilitate win-win investments that will bring (investors) a good rate of return, and also create the jobs we desire for our people,” she said.

She was speaking at Friday’s official opening of Jamaica’s first Hyatt-branded all inclusive resorts, the new Hyatt Ziva Rose Hall and Hyatt Zilara Rose Hall.

The Prime Minister, in her address, stressed the Government’s commitment to creating the nurturing environment for investments to succeed and welcomed the US$85 million investment by the developers, as a signal that “we are doing it right.”

“That is why we are ensuring that the fundamentals of our economy are sound and sure, as we accommodate greater levels of foreign direct investments. We are therefore very delighted that the Hyatt Zilara and Hyatt Ziva hotels will be doing business in Jamaica at this stage in our economic progress,” she said.

 “We recognise that by your investment in these state-of-the-art resorts, you are demonstrating your confidence that Jamaica will continue to be one of the premier destinations, not only in the region but globally,” she noted further.

The Prime Minister said tourism represents an area of substantial growth, with the sector generating approximately US$2 billion in earnings annually, and some 180,000 people are directly or indirectly employed to the industry.  

Provisional gross foreign exchange earnings from the industry are estimated at US$2.2 billion for the period January to December 2014.

 “We want our industry to grow not simply in quantity, but in quality, and the new Hyatt Ziva and Hyatt Zilara hotels represent quality…moreover, these will fit admirably into two specific areas of growth in tourism around the world – luxury travel and the all-inclusive vacation experience,” the Prime Minister noted.

Some 1,000 Jamaicans are employed at the two properties, which began welcoming guests last December. Renovations are still underway and should be completed by year end.

The Hyatt Zilara is designated as an adult only location, while Hyatt Ziva is for guests of all ages.

The colourful opening ceremony included a showcase of cultural performances in song and dance, while guests also enjoyed local cuisine.