Tourism stakeholders in western Jamaica were provided with direct access to licensing, regulatory and business support services on Thursday, September 24, 2026, as the Tourism Product Development Company Limited (TPDCo) hosted the Falmouth leg of its Licensing Expo at the Falmouth Pier, Trelawny.

The initiative forms part of TPDCo’s ongoing efforts to make it easier for tourism entrepreneurs and small business operators to navigate the requirements for operating within the sector while strengthening compliance and competitiveness.

Addressing the opening ceremony, Deputy Executive Director, Lionel Myrie, who delivered remarks on behalf of Executive Director Wade Mars, emphasized that tourism development must create opportunities for Jamaicans at every level of the industry.

“The message we are sending today is simple: tourism opportunities should not be limited to a few. They should be accessible to every Jamaican who is prepared to participate, innovate, and provide quality service,” Mr. Myrie said.

He noted that the Expo was designed to remove barriers by bringing key agencies, regulators, business support organisations and financing partners together in one location, allowing prospective and existing tourism operators to access critical information and services more efficiently.

Mr. Myrie further pointed to the strategic importance of Falmouth as one of Jamaica’s major tourism gateways, highlighting the opportunities created for small and medium-sized enterprises by the thousands of visitors who pass through the historic town each week.

He added that TPDCo remains committed to supporting stakeholders as the tourism sector continues to recover and strengthen.

“Recovery is not just about restoring infrastructure. It is about empowering people. It is about helping businesses grow, protecting jobs, and ensuring that tourism remains a driver of opportunity in communities across Jamaica,” he said.

The Licensing Expo provides a one-stop platform for tourism operators, entrepreneurs and community members to connect with agencies responsible for licensing, registration, financing and business development support. The initiative aims to promote greater participation in the tourism value chain while encouraging the delivery of quality, compliant and sustainable tourism products and services.

Mr. Myrie underscored that tourism growth must remain inclusive and people-centred, noting that Jamaica’s tourism success should translate into tangible benefits for communities and the individuals who contribute to the visitor experience every day.