Jamaica’s Prime Minister Wants Tourism to Get More Political Recognition

Tourism is delivering jobs, income and well-being around the world, and deserves increased support from political leaders in these challenging economic times, said Portia Simpson Miller, Prime Minister of Jamaica.

She emphasized the importance of tourism during the Caribbean Tourism Summit & Outlook Seminar 2012 held in Jamaica last month. The Summit was attended by Taleb Rifai, Secretary-General, United Nations World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) and David Scowsill, President & CEO, World Travel and Tourism Council (WTTC). “Tourism has grown over the years to become one of the world’s most powerful economic sectors,” said Miller.

“Having served as Minister of Tourism and Sports of Jamaica, a country in which tourism plays a crucial role in the national economy I am well aware of the need to raise the profile of tourism higher among decision-makers. Without recognition and support at the highest level, tourism is often blocked from delivering its full potential, especially when policies on issues such as infrastructure and taxation are made in isolation. This is even more critical in these challenging economic times,” she said.

Rifai and Scowsill praised the Prime Minister for her commitment to the sustainable expansion of the country’s tourism sector. “There is a clear recognition within the Jamaican government of the importance of tourism as a driver of economic growth, job creation and sustainable development. Already welcoming close to two million international tourists a year which generates USD two billion for the Jamaican economy, the Prime Minister’s words will ensure the country remains firmly on the international tourism map,” said Rifai.   

Scowsill added, “Jamaica has a unique character and sets itself apart from the other Caribbean islands historically and culturally. I am delighted that the government of Jamaica is reiterating its long term commitment to tourism, and demonstrates the country’s leadership role in the travel and tourism industry. The government truly understands the impact on job creation and on the global Gross Domestic Product (GDP).” In 2011 the Jamaican travel and tourism industry provided almost 300,000 jobs and directly contributed JMD100 billion to the country’s GDP, Scowsill informed.