Phase 3.0 of Jamaica’s tourism journey to focus on transformation and growth

The phase of Jamaica’s tourism journey dubbed 3.0, will focus on transformation and growth.

Portfolio Minister Edmund Bartlett noted that the sector has already gone through the first phase 1.0, which was aimed at brand creation, while phase, 2.0, was about expansion and investment.

In his contribution to the Sectoral Debate in Parliament today, Mr. Bartlett stressed that the next phase, 3.0, will be guided via the 10 by 10 by 10 target.

Phase 3.0 is built on 10 pillars, or priority areas, to include, destination assurance, worker welfare, infrastructure upgrades, and a modern governance system.

Meanwhile, the issues of economic leakage and retention will be addressed under phase 3.0 of Jamaica’s tourism journey.

Mr. Bartlett acknowledged concern that much of the revenue earned by the sector, goes back out.

In response, the local first initiative was established to boost retention of the tourism dollar by local stakeholders.

Mr. Bartlett noted that State Minister Tova Hamilton has been having discussions with stakeholders on the matter.

He said phase 3.0 will transition Jamaica from a consumer, to a producer of tourism offerings.

He said with Cabinet already approving the local first initiative, the Ministry will move now to implement the necessary system for local stakeholders to compete and deliver.