FITUR is known as the leading tradeshow for inbound and outbound markets in Ibero-America, including premier destinations in the Americas, attracting industry professionals, government representatives, and international media. Minister Bartlett noted that Jamaica’s participation will mark the beginning of the Ministry’s strategy for 2025, a year poised to witness continued growth and innovation in the sector. With the mantra “Thrive in 2025,” the tourism minister underscored the sector’s ambitious targets of expecting to welcome 5 million visitors and generate US$5 billion in earnings, further solidifying Jamaica’s position as a top-tier destination in the global tourism landscape.
“We are proud of Jamaica’s strong performance in 2024, achieving some 4.2 million arrivals and earning US$4.3 billion in tourism revenue, despite numerous challenges,” said Minister Bartlett. “As we move into 2025, our focus will be on maintaining this momentum, with an eye on hitting the 5 million mark for arrivals and reaching US$5 billion in earnings. FITUR is the perfect setting to position Jamaica for a successful year ahead, fostering partnerships that will help us reach our goals,” he expressed.
The minister’s packed itinerary will include several high-level engagements aimed at strengthening Jamaica’s relationships with key international stakeholders.
On January 22, he will participate in the official FITUR opening ceremony, which will also be attended by Their Majesties King Felipe VI and Queen Letizia of Spain. This will be followed by a reception for international ministers of tourism at the North Convention Centre.
Minister Bartlett will meet with key players in the global tourism industry. This includes meetings with United Nations (UN) Tourism Secretary-General, Zurab Pololikashvili, as well as Spain’s Secretary of State for Tourism, Rosario Sanchez Grau. Mr. Bartlett will also meet with Sebastian Ebel, CEO of the TUI Group; Encarna Pinero, CEO of Grupo Pinero, operators of the Bahia Principe Hotels & Resorts; Mark Hoplamazian, President of Hyatt Hotels, and representatives from development firm Invertol. He will also participate in an anniversary event hosted by UN Tourism at the Four Seasons Hotel and attend an award ceremony by Grupo Excelencias.
In addition to meeting engagements, Minister Bartlett will also engage in several media interviews during the tradeshow. Notably, he will speak with leading Spanish media outlets such as InOut Viajes and EFE, as well as international media, including Europa Press, La Sexta – Viajestic, Onda Cero Radio and Travelphoto Magazine, providing the opportunity to highlight Jamaica’s strong tourism performance, tourism offerings and the country’s strategic initiatives for 2025.
Minister Bartlett is scheduled to return to Jamaica on Sunday, January 26, 2025.
Tags: Edmund Bartlett, Tourism, Jamaica, FITUR
