Jamaica tourism leaders emphasize resilience amid global climate and geopolitical shifts

Jamaica’s Minister of Tourism, Edmund Bartlett, has declared the onset of ‘the Age of Resilience,’ emphasizing that the tourism sector must prioritize adaptive capacity to survive converging global threats. Speaking at the Canadian-Caribbean Tourism Resilience Symposium in Toronto, Bartlett noted that climate disasters, geopolitical conflicts, and artificial intelligence are no longer isolated events but interconnected challenges. He argued that true destination resilience depends on protecting people and livelihoods rather than just physical landmarks.

In conjunction with these themes, the 36th Jamaica Product Exchange (JAPEX) has been launched. Scheduled for September 14 to 16, 2026, under the theme ‘Jamaica Reimagined,’ the event will be held at the Moon Palace Jamaica Resort in Ocho Rios. The forum will focus on tourism resilience and the role of artificial intelligence in the industry. More than 60 buying delegates from over 20 countries are expected to participate in the trade showcase and networking sessions.