ST JAMES, Jamaica — Jamaica is gearing up to host a major regional event that promises to bring new opportunities for the country and the wider Caribbean.

The 49th Caricom Heads of Government Conference will be held from July 6 to 8 at the Montego Bay Convention Centre (MBCC), bringing together leaders from across the Caribbean to discuss common challenges and explore ways to grow and strengthen the region.

For many business stakeholders in the host city and tourism capital, Montego Bay, St James, the conference is not just about talk. It is about action, collaboration and creating opportunities that benefit everyone, especially in tourism, which is vital for Jamaica’s economy.

Area Chairperson for the Jamaica Hotel and Tourist Association (JHTA), Montego Bay Chapter, Kerry Ann Quallo Casserly, has been an active voice in advocating for regional cooperation.

“Caricom is our regional family. It’s about us coming together to find solutions to our common problems and to grow stronger as a region,” she said.

She explained that for Jamaica, hosting this summit is a chance to highlight what makes the island special, its friendly people, vibrant culture and stunning attractions, and to show that Jamaica is ready to welcome more visitors from around the world.

Caricom, or the Caribbean Community and Common Market, is a group of 15 Caribbean countries working together to promote economic integration, cooperation and development.

New Caricom Chairman, Prime Minister Andrew Holness, will lead the discussions, which are expected to focus on economic recovery, sustainable development and strengthening tourism — the backbone of the Caribbean economy.

Holness takes over from Barbadian Prime Minister, Mia Mottley.

Deputy Executive Chairman of Chukka Caribbean Adventures, John Byles, believes the summit will help promote tourism activities like eco-adventures, waterfalls and outdoor experiences.

“This is a perfect platform to showcase what Jamaica offers in terms of adventure tourism. When our leaders promote the region, more travellers will come to enjoy our beaches, zip lines and natural attractions, which means more income and jobs for local communities,” he said.

Owner of the popular restaurant, Smokeez, in Rose Hall, St James, Lowell Spence, emphasised that regional cooperation can boost the hospitality sector.

“When Caribbean countries promote each other’s attractions, it encourages tourists to explore more than just one island. That’s good for restaurants, hotels, and local workers,” he explained.

Owner of Garfield’s Diving in Ocho Rios and Montego Bay, Garfield Dussard, said that marine tourism can grow through regional efforts.

“Our reefs and beaches are world-class. More collaborations mean more divers and snorkellers will visit, which benefits everyone involved in marine adventures,” he noted.

Meanwhile, representing the transport sector, Allan Brown, stressed the importance of better travel links between Caribbean countries.

“We need more flights and boat services that connect our islands. Making it easier for tourists to visit multiple islands on one trip will increase their spending and length of stay, which benefits our economies,” he said.

The conference will also focus on preserving Caribbean culture — from Jamaica’s reggae and food festivals to Trinidad’s carnival and Guyana’s heritage. Promoting these cultural assets can make the region more attractive to tourists seeking authentic experiences.

— JIS