Minister of Tourism Edmund Bartlett and Director of Tourism Donovan White along with other representatives from the Jamaica Tourist Board (JTB), departed the country on Sunday, April 6 to execute a strategic three-day marketing blitz in New York City aimed at bolstering Jamaica’s tourism presence in the United States.

The marketing mission kicked off on Monday, April 7, and is part of the tourism ministry’s continuous efforts to strengthen relationships with industry partners and bolster forward bookings for the upcoming summer season. This blitz also comes as the Jamaica Tourist Board celebrates its 70th anniversary, marking seven decades of promoting Jamaica as a premier global destination.

Minister Bartlett emphasised the significance of direct engagement with the US market, Jamaica’s most important source of visitors.

“New York City remains a key pillar in our tourism strategy and it is vital that we continue to maintain strong, on-the-ground relationships with both trade and media stakeholders in that area. This marketing blitz provides us with the opportunity to not only showcase Jamaica’s unique offerings but also to reinforce our position as a top destination for American travellers,” he noted

The three-day campaign includes targeted activities for both trade and consumer audiences. The first day’s agenda features a Public Relations Partner Update Meeting followed by consumer media one-on-one desk engagements, which will provide Minister Bartlett and the team with valuable opportunities to share Jamaica’s exciting tourism developments. Additionally, the tourism minister will participate in an interview on Good Night New York, a prominent local programme that attracts a wide audience.

On Tuesday, April 8, the team hosted a trade media roundtable luncheon, further engaging with key influencers in the travel sector.

One-on-one sessions with consumer media were also conducted, providing a more intimate setting for discussing Jamaica’s diverse tourism offerings, from sports tourism to heritage, and adventure.

Today, the final day of the blitz, will include a Fireside Chat and reception at New York University (NYU), offering attendees a platform for deeper engagement with industry leaders, academics, and influential media representatives.

“This marketing blitz is crucial to strengthening our forward bookings, particularly as we look ahead to the summer season. The recent success of local sports tourism events has generated a significant boost in visitor interest, and we remain committed to securing sustained growth for our tourism sector,” White expressed.

Minister Bartlett is scheduled to return to Jamaica on Thursday, April 10, 2025.