Jamaica's tourism industry has set new records, with 2 million visitors in the first five months of 2024. This comes after a strong 2023, which saw 4.1 million arrivals, a 25.5% increase from 2022.
The economic impact is significant. Tourism has already generated $1.9 billion in 2024 and is projected to contribute nearly $5 billion by 2025, a major boost for the island's economy.
To date, we have generated $1.9 billion in revenue this year and looking ahead, we are on track to bring almost $5 billion to our economy by 2025 — contributing directly to the prosperity of our island and people.
"Our recent tourism data is a testament to our ongoing resilience and support from our cherished partners," said Edmund Bartlett, minister of tourism for Jamaica. "This historic start to 2024, as well as last year’s notable rise in arrivals, is a result of our island’s vibrant spirit as well as various factors such as additional airline seats, new hotel rooms and growing interest from travelers around the world. To date, we have generated $1.9 billion in revenue this year and looking ahead, we are on track to bring almost $5 billion to our economy by 2025 — contributing directly to the prosperity of our island and people."
U.S. travelers are driving this growth. In 2023, U.S. arrivals increased by 16.2%, with New York (350,000+ visitors) and Florida (326,000+) leading. The Midwest saw the highest regional growth at 23.3%, followed by the West with 16.8%.
To meet demand, Jamaica is expanding its hotel capacity. More than 2,000 new rooms will be added in the next two years.
Editor’s Note: This article was generated by AI, based on a press release distributed by Visit Jamaica. It has been fact-checked and reviewed by a TravelAge West editor.