The Ministry of Tourism will be working alongside its public bodies to strengthen linkages between the tourism sector and other key sectors in the Jamaican economy in order to improve supply chains.

This commitment was among some of the declarations arising from Minister of Tourism Edmund’s Bartlett contributions to the 2024/2025 Sectoral Debate in Parliament.

While noting that the mandate came from the prime minister to increase investments in the supply side of tourism, Bartlett stated, “We are meeting this challenge through our Tourism Linkages Network (TLN), a critical department within the Tourism Enhancement Fund (TEF).”

As part of efforts to further strengthen linkages, the tourism minister said that the use of the Agri-Linkages Exchange platform, also known as ALEX, will be a critical component.

“ALEX has facilitated greater connectivity between our tourism sector and small-scale farmers, generating approximately $1 billion in sales,” he said, adding: “These farmers, ranging from small landowners to backyard growers, are now supplying fresh produce directly to hotels and restaurants.”

ALEX is a joint effort between the TEF and the Rural Agricultural Development Authority (RADA). Bartlett also announced plans to expand this successful model by providing water tanks and other resources to empower and boost the capacity of farmers across Jamaica.

Another major announcement from Bartlett’s presentation was the recent opening of Jamaica’s first Artisan Village in Falmouth.

“The development of the Artisan Village is a collaborative venture between the Port Authority of Jamaica (PAJ) and the Tourism Enhancement Fund. This project offers a platform to showcase Jamaica’s rich cultural heritage and artisanal talent on an international stage,” the tourism minister shared.

The Artisan Village features the work of a diverse range of artisans, offering visitors a unique and immersive glimpse into Jamaican culture and traditions. The initiative aligns with the Ministry of Tourism’s commitment to promoting local craftsmanship and providing tourists with an authentic Jamaican experience.

Pointing out other opportunities for linkages, Bartlett acknowledged the vital role of small and medium-sized tourism enterprises (SMTEs) and pointed out the importance of initiatives like the annual Christmas in July trade show.

“This event provides a platform for SMTEs to showcase their products to key stakeholders within the tourism industry,” he explained.

Last year’s hosting of Christmas in July featured some 180 exhibitors, and the trade show has generated nearly $136 million in sales between 2015 and 2022. The event is organised by the TLN in collaboration with the Jamaica Business Development Corporation (JBDC), Jamaica Hotel & Tourist Association (JHTA), Jamaica Promotions Corporation (JAMPRO), and Jamaica Manufacturers and Exporters Association (JMEA).

According to Bartlett the expo “exemplifies our unwavering commitment to nurturing innovation and entrepreneurship within the tourism sector.”

As preparations intensify for the 10^th annual staging of Christmas in July this year, TEF recently hosted its Supplier Assessment Session at the Jamaica Pegasus Hotel.