Tourism Minister Announces 175 Small and Medium Tourism Enterprises to Showcase Locally Produced Gifts at Christmas in July Trade Show

The stage is set for an early holiday shopping experience as the annual Christmas in July Trade Show prepares to open its doors. Jamaica Tourism Minister, Hon. Edmund Bartlett, announced that 175 small and medium tourism enterprises will participate in this year’s event, showcasing a wide range of authentic Jamaican-made gifts and souvenir items.

Scheduled to take place from July 12 to July 13 at the AC Marriott Hotel in Kingston, the trade show promises to be a vibrant event, welcoming visitors daily from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Minister Bartlett urges Jamaicans looking for the perfect corporate Christmas gift to purchase products on display at this highly anticipated event.

“We are thrilled to announce the 9^th staging of the Christmas in July trade show, a magnificent showcase of Jamaica’s rich talent, creativity, and entrepreneurial spirit. This event is a celebration of the local talent and a powerful catalyst for economic growth and sustainable development,” said Minister Bartlett.

“By supporting the 175 local businesses participating in this trade show, we empower our communities, foster job creation, and boost our foreign exchange earnings. The tradeshow serves as a testament to the profound interconnectedness between tourism, fashion, entertainment, manufacturing, and agriculture, underscoring their vital role in Jamaica’s comprehensive advancement. I am therefore inviting Jamaicans to join us as we unite to enhance the consumption of locally sourced goods and services, shaping a brighter future for all,” he added.

With exhibitors representing various categories, including desktop solutions, aromatherapy, décor, fashion and accessories, fine arts, souvenirs, processed foods, and products made with organic and natural fibers, attendees can expect a diverse and captivating selection of locally made items.

The Christmas in July Trade Show will commence with an opening ceremony with Minister Bartlett delivering the keynote address, setting the tone for the event that celebrates the craftsmanship and creativity of Jamaican entrepreneurs.

Adding to the excitement, media personalities Dahlia Harris and Ian “Ity” Ellis have been enlisted as hosts for Day 1 of the trade show. Dahlia Harris will continue to guide the proceedings on Day 2, which will include a fashion show. 

The Christmas in July Trade Show promises to be a one-stop destination for discovering unique and authentic Jamaican-made gift items.

 Patrons can anticipate seeing exhibits of desktop solutions, spa and aromatherapy products, decorative items, clothing, fine art, jewelry, souvenirs, delectable food, and products crafted from organic and natural fibers. 

Beyond its festive atmosphere, the main goal of the trade show is to enhance the consumption of locally sourced goods and services, fostering economic growth and job creation while bolstering Jamaica’s foreign exchange earnings. By strengthening ties between tourism and other economically productive sectors like industry, entertainment, and agriculture, the event highlights the interconnectedness of these industries and their contribution to Jamaica’s overall development.

The Christmas in July Trade Show is a collaborative effort of the Tourism Linkages Network, a division of the Tourism Enhancement Fund, and its partners, including the Jamaica Business Development Corporation (JBDC), the Jamaica Hotel and Tourist Association (JHTA), Jamaica Promotions Corporation (JAMPRO), and the Jamaica Manufacturers and Exporters Association (JMEA).

MEDIA CONTACT:  Alyssa Taffe, Communications and Public Relations Officer, Tourism Enhancement Fund, 60 Knutsford Boulevard, Kingston 5. Tel: 876-441-5055