Kingston, Jamaica (McKoy’s News) – Minister of Tourism Edmund Bartlett departed Jamaica on Tuesday bound for London, England, where he will participate in a series of high-level meetings and events at Jamaica Travel Market 2025, running from October 1–3.
Organized by the Jamaica Tourist Board (JTB), the annual trade event connects Jamaican tourism suppliers with international buyers, fostering growth and investment in the island’s vibrant tourism sector.
Bartlett Eyes UK Market
Speaking before his departure, Bartlett said, “The UK remains one of our strongest source markets. Jamaica Travel Market gives us the chance to strengthen relationships with our partners, showcase the resilience of our tourism sector, and ensure that Jamaica stays top of mind for travellers.”
During his London visit, Bartlett will hold back-to-back business-to-business (B2B) meetings with buyers and Jamaican suppliers on October 2, followed by a networking luncheon. Later in the day, he will meet with Jules Ugo, CEO of W Communications, Jamaica’s UK-based PR agency.
The day will conclude with a high-profile session with the TUI Group, meeting key executives Phillip Iveson and Jill Thompson to discuss growth opportunities for Jamaica in the UK and European markets, capped by a cocktail reception and the Platinum Celebration Awards Dinner.
Next Stop: Toronto
On October 5, Bartlett will travel to Toronto, Canada, to attend the JTB’s Edith Baxter Memorial Awards Gala and hold media engagements aimed at expanding airlift and positioning Jamaica as the destination of choice for Canadian visitors.
New York Finale
The minister’s final stop will be New York on October 10 for the American Friends of Jamaica (AFJ) Hummingbird Gala at The Plaza Hotel, where two distinguished Jamaicans will be honoured:
- Jason Henzell, founder of BREDS Foundation and chairman of Jakes Hotel – International Humanitarian Award
- Josef “Joe” Bogdanovich, founder and CEO of DownSound Entertainment Limited – International Achievement Award
“It will be a proud moment to celebrate the impact of two Jamaicans who have made tremendous contributions in tourism, entertainment, and community development,” Bartlett said.
Minister Bartlett is expected to return to Jamaica on Sunday, October 12, concluding a packed schedule of international engagements designed to boost Jamaica’s global tourism footprint.

