TOURISM is deeply interconnected with nearly every sector of the Jamaican economy with the multiplier effect being “real and powerful”, according to Tourism Minister Edmund Bartlett.

He made the statement Tuesday during his contribution to the Sectoral Debate at Gordon House where he highlighted the importance of tourism to the local economy.

“It drives 15 per cent of construction, 10 per cent of banking and finance, 20 per cent of manufacturing, and 21 per cent of utilities, agriculture, and fisheries. Other sectors also benefit significantly from tourism through initiatives under the Tourism Enhancement Fund, including education, national security, and health,” said Bartlett.

He noted that as tourism grows, so do these other economic sectors.

“This is why we are laser-focused on deepening tourism linkages,” he said.

Bartlett told the House that he has been a lifelong advocate for the importance of tourism-dependent destinations like Jamaica owning the supply side of the industry to boost investments and earnings.

“Owning the supply side has the potential to create favourable conditions for investors and retain more of the foreign exchange earned locally from the industry. When we control supply, we not only increase our share of the earnings but also ensure that investments remain within our economies,” he said.

“This approach builds resilience, fuels local entrepreneurship, fosters inclusion and enables destinations to have a stronger voice in shaping their tourism destiny,” Bartlett argued.

“Imagine a future where local businesses supply every plate of food in resorts, every craft item in souvenir shops, and every eco-tourism adventure. Imagine more profits circulating within our communities, empowering families and inspiring innovation,” Bartlett continued.

The minister said Jamaica was at a critical point in its tourism development cycle where, “as we attract more visitors and hotel investments, there will be many, many more opportunities for local suppliers to benefit from tourism’s growing success”.

Meanwhile, Bartlett shared that the Agri-Linkages Exchange, known throughout the industry as ALEX, continues to demonstrate remarkable success in connecting farmers directly with hotels and food service providers across the tourism sector.

“Currently, approximately 2,000 farmers are registered on this innovative platform that has revolutionised how agricultural products reach tourism markets,” he said.

The minister added that between January and December 2024, ALEX facilitated the supply of approximately three million kilograms of produce valued at more than $450 million. Between January and April 2025, the platform generated earnings of $100 million for farmers.

Bartlett said it was important to highlight that these numbers are part and parcel of overall agriculture produce sales to the sector.

“Many more billions are made via other arrangements involving small, medium and large farmers and entities,” he stated.

“These figures represent more than mere statistics; they represent economic empowerment for our farmers who now have guaranteed markets for their produce. They represent reduction in foreign exchange leakage that previously drained resources from our economy,” Bartlett said.

“They represent enhanced food security as our tourism industry reduces its dependence on imported agricultural products, and they represent the development of sustainable agricultural practices aligned with tourism demand that create long-term viability for farming communities,” added Bartlett.