November 6, 2026

Bartlett and Green call for stronger agriculture-tourism partnerships to boost local earnings

Minister of Tourism Edmund Bartlett said a stronger agricultural link with tourism is key to retaining more money from visitor spending in Jamaica.

Addressing the Tourism Agricultural Opportunities Forum on Tuesday, Mr. Bartlett said the aim is to increase retention from 40 to 60 cents of every dollar.

He said tourism’s success can be measured by how much earnings remain in the country and help improve the lives of citizens.

Mr. Bartlett noted the importance of collaboration among purchasing forecasts, production planning, financing and logistics, so that local suppliers can attract more tourism business.

Meanwhile, Agriculture Minister Floyd Green emphasised the need to close gaps between agricultural suppliers and tourism businesses.

Green urged producers to understand and consistently meet buyers’ requirements, while encouraging tourism businesses to recognise the value of sourcing locally.