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JAM | Mar 11, 2026

Tourism minister sets 150,000 visitor target for Continental Europe by 2030

Toriann Ellis

Toriann Ellis / Our Today

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Minister of Tourism Edmund Bartlett addresses the press launch of the Global Tourism Resilience Day Conference and Expo (GTRDCE) at the Ministry’s New Kingston offices on Monday, February 9, 2026. The three-day event will be held from February 16 to 18 at the Kenyatta International Convention Centre (KICC) in Nairobi, Kenya, under the theme ‘Tourism Resilience in Action: From Crisis Response to Impactful Transformation’. (Photo: JIS/Yhomo Hutchinson)

Minister of Tourism, Edmund Bartlett, has set an ambitious target of 150,000 annual visitors from Continental Europe to Jamaica by 2030, supported by a strategic plan to expand airlift, deepen tour operator partnerships, and intensify targeted marketing across some of Europe’s most valuable long-haul travel markets.

Continental Europe represents a major growth opportunity for Jamaica, with markets such as Germany, Spain, Italy, France and the Netherlands showing strong interest in long-haul Caribbean travel. Jamaica’s established presence in the region also provides a strong platform for accelerated expansion over the coming years.

“Continental Europe represents one of the most significant opportunities for Jamaica’s tourism growth, and reaching 150,000 visitors annually by 2030 is an achievable and strategic goal,” said Minister Bartlett.

“European travellers are discerning, high-value visitors who seek authentic culture, natural beauty and immersive experiences. Jamaica delivers all of this and more, and we are strengthening our partnerships across the region to unlock this market’s full potential.”

The minister made this announcement on the heels of Jamaica’s successful presentation at ITB Berlin, the leading platform for the global travel and tourism industry. 

Central to the strategy is a strategic expansion in airlift and strengthening relationships with key airline partners serving the region. Germany currently remains Jamaica’s largest Continental European source market, supported by direct service from Frankfurt to Montego Bay. These flights provide a critical gateway for travellers from across the wider European continent.

 “Our focus is on building stronger airline partnerships, working closely with major European tour operators and ensuring Jamaica maintains strong visibility across both retail and digital platforms throughout the region,” said Director of Tourism, Donovan White.

The Jamaica Tourist Board is also intensifying targeted marketing campaigns across Continental Europe, designed to convert brand awareness into bookings while positioning Jamaica as a premier Caribbean destination for culture, adventure, cuisine and authentic experiences.

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