Jamaica Tourist Board Announces Milestone 70th Anniversary

The national tourism agency, Jamaica Tourist Board, is celebrating its landmark 70th anniversary this month. It was founded on April 1, 1955, and the island plans to commemorate the history and accomplishments of advancing Jamaica as a leading Caribbean travel destination with a series of activations and events across the island.

Jamaica Tourist Board celebrates landmark 70th Anniversary

Festivities are set to start on April 6 with a commemorative church service, and will continue with an Anniversary Awards Gala, highlighting the contribution of former employees.

Meanwhile, a 70th anniversary documentary and a virtual online exhibition by the Clive Taffe Library will showcase the board’s history and success. It will further lead special engagements with Tourism Action Clubs, a program designed to educate secondary and tertiary students about tourism and its importance to Jamaica’s economy.

Announcing the event, Hon. Edmund Bartlett, Minister of Tourism, Jamaica, said:

Jamaica was an emerging island destination when the Jamaica Tourist Board was first established, welcoming just over 100,000 visitors annually. By end of 2025, we anticipate welcoming nearly five million visitors – a remarkable achievement that speaks to the unwavering dedication of the Jamaican people across generations.

We have seen unprecedented growth in our investments, infrastructure and earnings and I thank our workers and partners for their hard work and passion that have transformed Jamaica into a global tourism powerhouse.

Showcasing Jamaica

Since its founding, the Jamaica Tourist Board has been committed to showcasing the island’s beauty, culture, and warm hospitality to visitors from around the world. The board’s efforts have helped to establish the island as a premier Caribbean destination, attracting millions of visitors every year and driving significant economic growth for Jamaica’s people.

Donovan White, Jamaica’s Director of Tourism, said:

As we proudly celebrate 70 years of the Jamaica Tourist Board, we are inspired to build upon our incredible legacy and shape an even brighter future.

We are also leveraging digital innovations, targeted campaigns, and strategic partnerships to drive even greater awareness and demand worldwide. This marks the beginning of a new era for Jamaican tourism, and we are committed to its continued growth.

Learn more about the Jamaica Tourist Board and its work in attracting visitors to the Caribbean island on the board’s official website.