Minister of Tourism, Edmund Bartlett, welcomed the positive performance, noting that while the arrival numbers are encouraging, the country’s tourism recovery strategy extends beyond statistics.

“Our recovery is not only about increasing visitor numbers,” the minister said. “It is also about ensuring that the men and women who power our tourism industry are supported as we build back stronger. These numbers equate to US$331.2 million in earnings and mean real jobs for our workers and earnings for the country’s economy.”

The ministry says the tourism sector continues to place strong emphasis on relief and support programmes for its workers, providing direct assistance for their personal use.

Over $2 billion has been earmarked to assist workers to stabilise their livelihoods, meet household needs, and actively participate in the sector’s recovery.

Part of the recovery initiative for workers includes the Tourism Housing Assistance Recovery Programme (THARP), which aims to aid tourism workers whose homes were damaged by Hurricane Melissa on October 28.

With the winter season now underway, stakeholders are optimistic that continued growth in arrivals, combined with sustained support for tourism workers, will further strengthen Jamaica’s economic recovery and long-term tourism development.

“Our partners and stakeholders continue to invest in the island’s tourism recovery which highlights a deep sense of confidence that we will build back even better,” said Director of Tourism Donovan White.

The minister continues to have dialogue with stakeholders to strengthen the labour market arrangements within the sector, securing the tenure and support for workers as the recovery progresses.