Jamaica proposes Global Tourism Resilience Fund at World Economic Forum

At the World Economic Forum, Jamaican Tourism Minister Edmund Bartlett proposed a new global framework for the industry known as ‘Tourism 3.0’. This model advocates for shifting the measurement of tourism success from mere visitor numbers to the actual economic and social impact generated within local communities.

To support this transition, Bartlett proposed the creation of a $10 billion Global Tourism Resilience Fund. The ‘Tourism 3.0’ vision focuses on inclusive economic transformation through four key priorities: worker security and protection, strengthening local supply chains, promoting local ownership, and ensuring the distribution of benefits to host communities.

Jamaica has already implemented several initiatives under this framework, including the Tourism Workers Pension Scheme launched in 2022 and the ‘Local First’ agenda. Other efforts include the Tourism Innovation Incubator and programs connecting local farmers with hotels and cruise operators to increase the use of domestic production.