KINGSTON, Jamaica—In a strategic move to bolster Jamaica’s tourism sector, Minister of Tourism Edmund Bartlett embarked on a global tour, commencing with his departure for London, England, on Tuesday. His itinerary includes pivotal engagements at the Jamaica Travel Market 2025, scheduled from October 1–3, 2025. This premier trade event, orchestrated by the Jamaica Tourist Board (JTB), aims to foster business connections between Jamaican tourism providers and international buyers, driving investment and growth in the island’s thriving tourism industry.
Minister Bartlett emphasized the significance of the UK market, stating, ‘The UK remains one of our strongest source markets. The Jamaica Travel Market provides a platform to reinforce partnerships, highlight the resilience of our tourism sector, and ensure Jamaica remains a top destination for travelers.’
In London, Bartlett’s packed agenda includes back-to-back business-to-business (B2B) meetings with key stakeholders on October 2, followed by a networking luncheon. He will also hold discussions with Jules Ugo, CEO of W Communications, Jamaica’s UK-based PR agency. A major highlight of his visit will be a strategic meeting with the TUI Group, where he will engage with Phillip Iveson, Director of Accommodation Product & Sourcing, and Jill Thompson, Head of Product & Ancillaries, to explore growth opportunities in the UK and broader European markets. The day will conclude with a cocktail reception and the prestigious Platinum Celebration Awards Dinner.
On October 3, the minister will continue his B2B meetings, receive an update on Jamaica’s tourism outlook, and attend a Jamaican barbecue luncheon before departing the event.
Following his London engagements, Bartlett will travel to Toronto, Canada, on October 5, to attend the JTB’s Edith Baxter Memorial Awards Gala and conduct critical media engagements. ‘The Canadian market is vital for us. My discussions will focus on expanding airlift and positioning Jamaica as the preferred destination for Canadian visitors,’ he remarked.
The final leg of his tour will take him to New York on October 10 for the American Friends of Jamaica’s (AFJ) Hummingbird Gala at The Plaza Hotel. The event will honor two distinguished Jamaicans: Jason Henzell, founder of BREDS Foundation and chairman of Jakes Hotel, who will receive the International Humanitarian Award, and Josef “Joe” Bogdanovich, founder and CEO of DownSound Entertainment Limited, who will be awarded the International Achievement Award.
‘It will be a proud moment to celebrate the remarkable contributions of these individuals to tourism, entertainment, and community development,’ Bartlett said. The minister is expected to return to Jamaica on October 12, concluding his extensive global mission.