The Tourism Linkages Network will launch the first-ever Jamaica Forum on Gastronomy Tourism, set to take place on June 18, 2025, at the AC Hotel in Kingston. 

This historic event aligns with the UN World Sustainable Gastronomy Day and underscores Jamaica’s growing reputation as a culinary destination that enhances the visitor experience while fostering economic growth in agriculture and manufacturing.

Minister of Tourism, Edmund Bartlett, expressed his excitement: “The Jamaica Forum on Gastronomy Tourism marks a significant milestone in positioning our nation as a global leader in culinary tourism. By combining our rich culinary heritage with sustainable practices, we aim to redefine how visitors experience Jamaica and strengthen our tourism industry from the inside out.” He added, “Our food reflects our culture, history, and people. This forum is an opportunity to showcase and leverage that richness for economic and cultural growth.”

The forum will delve into the vital connections between tourism, gastronomy, manufacturing, and agriculture, emphasising how food excellence can serve as both a magnet for increasing visitor arrivals and a catalyst for economic development. Attendees will participate in engaging seminars, master classes, and panel discussions designed to foster innovation, build capacity, and attract investment in Jamaica’s food-related tourism experiences.

Carolyn McDonald Riley, Director of the Tourism Linkages Network, highlighted the importance of this initiative: “This forum is a testament to our dedication to developing sustainable tourism practices that celebrate Jamaica’s culinary and cultural heritage. It’s a meeting point of innovation and tradition, driving economic growth across sectors while enhancing our natural and cultural assets.”

The event will showcase Jamaica’s potential to leverage gastronomy as a central driver of sustainable tourism, focusing on strengthening linkages between agriculture, manufacturing, creative industries, and tourism. Renowned speakers and participants slated for the forum include:

• Dr. Altreisha Foster, Culinary Entrepreneur and Podcast Host, will explore Culinary Wellness and Gastronomic Identity.
• Lily Claire Bellamy, Executive Director of the Jamaica Intellectual Property Office, who will discuss the importance of geographical indications and intellectual property in enhancing food tourism.
• Panel discussions featuring industry leaders such as Chef Kamila McDonald, Oji Jaja, and celebrated culinary professionals Michelle and Suzanne Rousseau.

A highlight of the inaugural forum will be the presentation of awards recognising excellence and innovation within Jamaica’s vibrant culinary landscape, celebrating those who have significantly contributed to advancing gastronomic tourism.

This groundbreaking event offers Jamaica a prime opportunity to spotlight its culinary richness on a global stage, reinforcing its reputation as a premier destination for food lovers and cultural explorers alike. According to Riley, attendees can expect to be inspired to think creatively about gastronomy’s role in tourism and identify new pathways for sustainable and impactful growth.