KINGSTON, Jamaica, CMC — Tourism Minister Edmund Bartlett has declared Jamaica’s recovery “resilience in action” after revealing that the island welcomed over one million visitor arrivals and generated US$956 million in foreign exchange earnings in the first quarter of 2026, just five months after the disruption caused by Hurricane Melissa.
Speaking to members of the Jamaican diaspora at the Embassy of Jamaica in Washington, D.C. this week, Bartlett credited the global Jamaican community as among the country’s most powerful ambassadors, saying their influence has been critical in sustaining confidence in the destination during its recovery period.
happens by accident. Despite the disruption caused by Hurricane Melissa, the island’s tourism industry maintained momentum, a result Bartlett attributed in large part to the diaspora’s refusal to allow a negative narrative to take hold.
These figures speak to the destination’s resilience and the global support our island continues to receive. The world is confident in our ability to recover from disruptions and deliver top-class hospitality at every level,” the minister said.
He also highlighted that in an era of rampant misinformation, the diaspora serves as a critical line of defense for Jamaica’s global reputation. “Every time you speak positively about Jamaica, every time you correct a misconception, every time you invite someone to visit or return, you are actively strengthening our country’s resilience.”
Director of Tourism, Donovan White, said surpassing one million visitor arrivals in under six months since Hurricane Melissa struck is a remarkable achievement for Jamaica.
“It speaks directly to the resilience of our tourism sector and the unwavering commitment of our partners and the Jamaican people. I extend sincere thanks for their continued confidence in our destination. Encouragingly, we have recorded year-to-date growth of 25% from Latin America and 7% from Asia, clear indicators that our strategy to diversify and expand into new markets is delivering meaningful results,” he said.
Minister Bartlett closed his address with a direct and personal call to action for every member of the Jamaican diaspora: “Tonight is both a thank you and an invitation. Continue telling our story with pride. Continue sharing the truth of who we are and correcting the misinformation. Continue encouraging others to experience Jamaica for themselves. And of course continue coming home. Because Jamaica will always be your home.”
He contended that Jamaica’s story will not be defined by disruption, but by resilience, authenticity, and strength.
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