Minister Bartlett Reports on Tourism Supply Logistics Centre Progress

Jamaica Minister of Tourism, Hon. Edmund Bartlett, detailed the significant progress being made in establishing Jamaica as a key supply logistics center for the Caribbean cruise industry during his closing presentation of the 2024/2025 Sectoral Debate in Parliament.

This development, he believes, will revolutionize Jamaica’s tourism sector and create unprecedented opportunities for local businesses.

“Several major cruise lines, including industry leaders such as Carnival, Royal Caribbean, MSC, and Norwegian cruise lines, have expressed keen interest in sourcing more of their global product needs from Jamaica,” Minister Bartlett revealed.

“This strategic recognition of Jamaica’s potential is not merely a gesture of goodwill. The cruise lines have made it clear that they are prepared to significantly increase their procurement of Jamaican products, provided these goods meet their exacting standards for quality, consistency, and reliable supply,” the tourism minister outlined. 

He further explained that this presents an excellent opportunity for Jamaica’s farmers, manufacturers, artisans, and other small and medium-sized enterprises, opening up a vast new market for local products and potentially transforming the economic landscape.

However, Minister Bartlett acknowledged the challenges this opportunity presents. “Meeting the stringent requirements of these global cruise lines demands a level of product sophistication, quality control, and supply chain efficiency that many of our local businesses may not yet possess,” he said.

Notwithstanding this, he noted that to address these challenges, the Tourism Linkages Network, a division of the Tourism Enhancement Fund (TEF), has been working tirelessly to prepare local businesses for this opportunity. Through targeted initiatives, they have been equipping local enterprises with the skills and knowledge needed to meet international standards.

“This is more than just an economic opportunity.”

Bartlett added, “It is a chance for Jamaica to showcase our products on a global stage, to demonstrate that our goods are not just ‘good enough’ for local consumption but are world-class and worthy of being served to discerning travelers from around the globe,” he continued.

Minister Bartlett also commended Jamaica Vacations Ltd. (JAMVAC) for their excellent work in marketing Jamaica as a premier cruise destination. “Their efforts have not only ensured that Jamaica remains a top choice for cruise lines but have also paved the way for these deeper economic partnerships,” he added.

The envisioned logistics center aligns perfectly with the Ministry’s vision of a “caring economy.” Minister Bartlett emphasized, “This initiative creates opportunities not just within tourism, but across various sectors. It empowers local businesses, fosters job creation, and ensures that a larger slice of the tourism pie directly benefits Jamaican workers and entrepreneurs.”