KINGSTON, Jamaica—A new Tourist Board Act was tabled in the House of Representatives on Tuesday, a signal that the process to repeal and replace the 70-year-old Act is now complete.

“The new Act contains modernised provisions in keeping with current realities and strengthens the enforcement provisions that ensure Jamaica maintains its reputation for quality tourism experiences,” said Tourism Minister Edmund Bartlett.

“This comprehensive update now enhances the Jamaica Tourist Board’s ability to effectively regulate the sector, promote our destination, and respond to emerging trends and challenges in global tourism,” Bartlett added. He was speaking Tuesday during his contribution to the 2025/26 Sectoral Debate in the House of Representatives.

The minister told the House that the new Tourist Board Act will also repeal the River Rafting Act and will transfer regulatory and operational functions of the River Rafting Authority to the Jamaica Tourist Board.

Bartlett explained that the modernisation of the Travel Agency Act and its regulations addresses legislation that dates back to 1956, requiring significant updating to reflect the revolutionary changes that have occurred in the travel agency business model over the past seven decades. He said the amendment will take into account modern developments including online booking platforms, digital marketing, and changing consumer behaviours while revising application and registration procedures for licensing of travel agencies and travel agents.

“The amendment of the Bath of St Thomas the Apostle Act and Milk River Act will modernise these pieces of legislation and remove legislative hurdles to entering public-private partnerships for the Milk River Hotel and Spa and Bath Fountain Hotel. These partnerships are designed to facilitate the development of these facilities into world-class wellness tourism destinations that capitalise on Jamaica’s natural therapeutic resources,” said Bartlett.

According to him, the Ministry of Tourism continues to work diligently on legislative priorities for the 2025/2026 legislative year, “with amendments designed to strengthen our regulatory framework, modernise operations, and ensure that our tourism sector continues to thrive in an ever-changing global environment that demands adaptability and innovation”.