NEGRIL, Westmoreland — Jamaica’s tourism industry demonstrates remarkable resilience as investor confidence remains steadfast following the devastating impact of Category 5 Hurricane Melissa. Tourism Minister Edmund Bartlett confirmed that all previously announced hotel expansion projects will proceed without delay, signaling strong global belief in the destination’s long-term viability.
During an inspection tour of Negril’s recovery progress, Bartlett revealed that not a single investor has withdrawn or postponed development plans despite widespread infrastructure damage. This extraordinary vote of confidence comes as Jamaica enters its critical winter tourism season with approximately 65% of properties operational.
Substantial development projects continue according to schedule across multiple parishes. The Palladium resort group will commence construction on 1,000 additional rooms in January 2026, while Sandals International has reaffirmed its commitment to previously announced developments. Bahia Principe is not only refurbishing its existing 1,300 rooms but adding 365 luxury suites, potentially creating 3,000 new jobs alongside their current workforce of 2,000 employees.
Minister Bartlett characterized this sustained investment as testament to Jamaica’s symbolic resilience and the international community’s trust in the destination’s recovery capabilities. “Within one month of experiencing the worst weather event in the northern Caribbean, we can genuinely declare that Jamaica is open and ready for business,” Bartlett stated.
The tourism minister extended gratitude to international visitors and partners while praising utility companies, government agencies, and hospitality workers for their extraordinary recovery efforts. Bartlett projected that over 80% of tourism assets would be operational by mid-2026, reaching 90% capacity by early 2027.
Highlighting Jamaica’s competitive advantage of diverse destination experiences—from Ocho Rios and Port Antonio to Kingston and Negril—Bartlett invited global travelers to support recovery efforts through visitation. “The best way to support Jamaica after Melissa is to visit us,” he urged, describing the nation as a “wonderful piece of paradise” poised for full restoration.