GUYANA AND JAMAICA SIGN TOURISM AGREEMENT TO EXPAND REGIONAL TRAVEL AND INVESTMENT

GEORGETOWN, GUYANA | OCTOBER 9, 2026 — Guyana and Jamaica have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) aimed at strengthening tourism cooperation, expanding investment opportunities and improving travel connections between the two Caribbean nations.

The agreement was signed by Guyana’s Minister of Tourism, Industry and Commerce, Susan Rodrigues, and Jamaica’s Minister of Tourism, Edmund Bartlett, during the State of the Tourism Industry Conference (SOTIC) 2026 at the Atlantic Suites by Hyatt in Georgetown.

The MOU establishes a framework for cooperation in tourism investment, air connectivity, hospitality training, sustainable development and disaster resilience. It also seeks to encourage greater travel between the two countries and strengthen partnerships among tourism businesses and stakeholders.

Minister Rodrigues described the agreement as an opportunity for both countries to exchange expertise and develop initiatives that benefit their tourism industries.

“This partnership allows us to learn from each other’s experiences, build stronger connections between our tourism stakeholders and create opportunities that benefit our people and the wider Caribbean,” Rodrigues said.

Jamaica’s Tourism Minister Edmund Bartlett highlighted Guyana’s growing importance as an emerging Caribbean destination, particularly its natural attractions and potential contribution to multi-destination tourism.

“Guyana is adding much more to the Caribbean tourism experience, with its forests, hidden valleys and rich natural heritage,” Bartlett stated.

He also emphasized the need for Caribbean countries to move beyond simply increasing visitor arrivals and focus on ensuring that tourism generates greater economic benefits for local businesses, workers and communities.

The agreement comes as Guyana seeks to expand its tourism industry and strengthen its position in the regional and international travel markets.

While the MOU outlines areas for cooperation, the announcement did not specify implementation timelines, funding commitments or new airline routes.

The partnership is expected to support wider Caribbean tourism integration while creating opportunities for knowledge-sharing, investment and sustainable industry growth.