The Ministry of Tourism is the primary arm of Government that is responsible for the sustainable development of Jamaica’s tourism and the encouragement and facilitation of investments in the sector. As such the Ministry oversees the maintenance of standards, development of human resource and training, as well as facilitates the marketing and promotion of the country’s tourism product in such a way that Jamaica remains a premier destination while at the same time ensuring that the social and economic benefits are maximized for the Jamaican people.

Within the Tourism Ministry are several agencies charged with specific responsibilities to ensure the effective management of the tourism sector. These include:

Our Agencies

Jamaica Tourist Board

The role of the Jamaica Tourist Board (JTB) is to maintain and enhance the country’s profile in the international marketplace. The Jamaica Tourist Board is responsible for the marketing of tourism, including advertising, public relations, events marketing and other promotional efforts undertaken to ensure strong visibility of destination Jamaica in the highly competitive global tourism market.

The JTB operates through local offices and also overseas, in such countries as the United States, Canada, London, Germany and Japan.

The Tourism Product Development Company is the agency in the Ministry of Tourism that has the mandate of developing and improving Jamaica’s tourism product. Its main areas of focus involve:

•    Acting as a catalyst and facilitator in developing and implementing plans to improve the main resort areas.

•    Identifying and prioritizing the area with potential for enhancing Jamaica’s tourism product.

•    Diversifying the services and facilities in the industry.

Further, the agency assists in the creation of a world-class destination for sports, entertainment, conference, eco and heritage and other tourism markets by promoting and ensuring the high standards of Jamaica’s tourism product, quality, human resources and service excellence.

The Tourism Enhancement Fund (TEF) was established by the enactment of the Tourism Enhancement Act, 2004. The TEF is responsible for collecting, administering and executing funds under the direction of the Minister of Tourism, in a way that is beneficial to developing and enhancing the island’s tourism product. TEF accords the highest priority to projects falling within the classifications of:

•    Heritage Tourism – Built and Natural
•    Resort Enhancement (Product development, diversification and beautification)
•    Community Tourism
•    Sports and Entertainment
•    Environmental Management
•    Culture
•    Support to Tourism Small and Micro Enterprises

The Bath Fountain Hotel and Spa is the other of Jamaica’s renowned spas and hotels located in St. Thomas; its services include guest accommodation, a restaurant and mineral baths.

The Milk River Hotel and Spa is a national heritage site located in the community of Milk River in south-west Clarendon. Established in the eighteenth century, Milk River Hotel and Spa has been an important national and international attraction over many years, and is noted for the health benefits provided by its mineral waters. It is a 20-room hotel with nine private baths, a bathing pool, bars, dining room and conference room.

Jamaica Vacations Limited (JAMVAC) is mandated to effectively promote and increase airlift of visitors to Jamaica; support other tour operators serving Jamaica; and operate in-house charters from selected gateways and supporting airlift from targeted markets.

Devon House is an attraction that offers a wide range of products including venue rentals, dining in various setting from the laid back to the formal occasion; shopping in a relaxed historic atmosphere; public park facilities and a museum. Additional events include fairs and exhibitions held on the premises.