U.S, May 1 -- Concurrently, an estimated 2.96 million stopover arrivals reflect a 9.4% increase while cruise arrivals were up by 9.0% from the previous period in 2022/23 to reach 1.34 million passengers. The Minister also noted that "2024 began with a bang," with Jamaica now set to achieve its target of 5 million visitors in 4 years instead of the 5 years projected.

The numbers were disclosed in Parliament by Minister Bartlett as he opened the 2024/25 Sectoral Debate yesterday (April 30), with a comprehensive review of the industry's performance. Underscoring that the tourism dollar had a wide reach, Minister Bartlett said: "When tourism dollars reach local businesses and residents, it creates a more equitable economy, leading to a stron...