Kingston, Jamaica – July 31, 2026 – The Jamaica Hotel and Tourist Association (JHTA) met with the Honourable Fayval Williams, Minister of Finance and the Public Service, on Thursday, July 30, in a constructive and forward-looking discussion on matters affecting Jamaica’s tourism industry. The discussions focused on the Government’s proposed increase in the General Consumption Tax (GCT) applicable to the tourism sector, with particular attention given to its potential impact on the industry’s competitiveness, investment climate, employment, and long-term sustainability.
The meeting, facilitated through the Ministry of Tourism, provided an opportunity for an open and candid exchange on the challenges currently facing the industry, as well as the broader economic considerations informing the Government’s proposal. Both parties acknowledged the importance of continued engagement and agreed to work collaboratively over the coming months to explore practical solutions that support the Government’s fiscal objectives while preserving the competitiveness and long-term success of Jamaica’s tourism sector.
JHTA President O’Brian Heron welcomed the constructive nature of the discussions and expressed appreciation for the Minister’s willingness to engage directly with the industry’s concerns.
“We appreciate the opportunity to meet with Minister Williams and her team. The Minister demonstrated a genuine appreciation of the challenges currently facing Jamaica’s tourism industry and was receptive to the perspectives shared by the Association. We are encouraged by the spirit of collaboration that characterized the meeting and look forward to working together in the months ahead to identify balanced, sustainable solutions that protect Jamaica’s competitiveness while supporting the country’s broader economic objectives.”
Minister Fayval Williams added:
"Tourism is one of the pillars of our economy, and I have great respect for the industry and the many Jamaicans whose livelihoods depend on it. My meeting with the JHTA and members of its parent ministry, the Ministry of Tourism, was open and constructive, and I valued the candour with which the Association shared its concerns. As we balance the range of considerations involved in meeting our fiscal responsibilities, I am committed to keeping the channels of dialogue with the industry fully open."
The JHTA remains committed to constructive dialogue with the Government and all stakeholders as it continues to advocate for policies that strengthen Jamaica’s tourism industry, support investment and employment, and ensure the sector remains a leading contributor to national economic growth.