Minister of Tourism Edmund Bartlett says the Jamaica intends to ramp up promotion of existing medical tourism products and services as well as develop and market spa facilities throughout the island, as it seeks to capitalise on the economic opportunities within the US$4.3 trillion health and wellness tourism market.

He noted that developing Jamaica’s health and wellness subsector is among the tourism ministry’s growth strategy, because it offers visitors an “unmatched value proposition based on innovation, diversification, and differentiation of our tourism product”.

“The ministry will work with medical facilities and doctors who already meet international standards and offer services in key target areas such as medical diagnostic, dental, and medical surgeries,” said Bartlett.

He noted that as the population ages, there is increased interest in total body healthcare and a demand for health-related resources, which forms the basis for health and wellness tourism.

However, the primary focus of the Government is to develop the health and wellness product. This, he said, will be done through the rehabilitation of spa facilities such as the Milk River Bath in Clarendon and Bath, St Thomas, to ensure they meet international standards and demands.

The minister also intends to assist spa facilities with creating products that can be sold to visitors.

“The richness of our biodiversity and the potential for nutraceutical products that are in demand and offer so much possibility for health and wellness put Jamaica as a premier destination in the Caribbean in particular, as we are the country with perhaps more offerings for health and wellness than all the English-speaking Caribbean islands combined,” said Bartlett.

He added that Jamaica’s natural beauty, cultural heritage, and proximity to the United States give it a competitive advantage over many of its global competitors, which means Jamaica can establish itself as a leading choice for travellers seeking restorative retreats.

“As Jamaica continues to invest in its health and wellness tourism sector, significant value-added earnings can be expected. The influx of international visitors seeking wellness experiences will lead to increased revenue from accommodation, dining, leisure activities, and transportation services,” Bartlett said.

He shared that the Government is actively supporting the construction of wellness resorts and investing in sustainable infrastructure. Partnerships have been established with wellness industry leaders, global travel agencies, and influential wellness bloggers to enhance Jamaica’s visibility as a premier health and wellness destination.