GITNUX MARKETDATA REPORT 2024

Jamaica Tourism Industry Statistics

The Jamaica tourism industry has shown consistent growth over the years with an increasing number of visitors, contributing significantly to the country's economy.

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Highlights: Jamaica Tourism Industry Statistics

  • In 2020, Jamaica's tourism sector saw a 68% decrease in earnings due to the impact of COVID-19.
  • In 2019, tourism contributed to 34% of Jamaica's GDP.
  • In 2019, a record 4.2 million tourists visited Jamaica.
  • About 70% of Jamaica's visitors are from the U.S.
  • More than 70% of travelers who visit Jamaica do so for leisure purposes.
  • In 2019, the cruise passenger arrivals were about 1.5 million, marking a decline of 9.5% over 2018.
  • 30% of total foreign exchange earnings in Jamaica comes from the travel and tourism sectors.
  • Hotel accommodation revenue in Jamaica for 2019 was $1.7 billion.
  • In 2020, tourist volume in Jamaica shrank by 68% compared to 2019.
  • The average tourist spends $2,000 per visit, markedly driving Jamaica's forex earnings.
  • Tourism accounted for 236,200 jobs in Jamaica by 2019.
  • Direct contribution of travel and tourism to employment was 9.3% of total employment in Jamaica in 2019.
  • 'Tourism Linkages Network’ estimated that tourists spend about $75 million on local craft items annually in Jamaica.
  • In 2018, 64.3% of spending in Jamaica’s travel and tourism sector was leisure spending.
  • Globally, Jamaica was ranked 13th for its dependency on tourism in 2017.

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The Latest Jamaica Tourism Industry Statistics Explained

In 2020, Jamaica’s tourism sector saw a 68% decrease in earnings due to the impact of COVID-19.

The statistic indicates that in 2020, Jamaica’s tourism sector experienced a substantial decrease in earnings amounting to 68% as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic. This significant decline is attributed to travel restrictions, lockdown measures, and a general decrease in global tourism due to the spread of the virus. The sharp decrease in earnings highlights the vulnerability of Jamaica’s economy to disruptions in the tourism industry, which is a crucial source of revenue for the country. The impact of COVID-19 on the tourism sector not only resulted in financial losses for businesses and government revenues but also had a broader socio-economic impact on employment, investment, and overall economic stability in Jamaica.

In 2019, tourism contributed to 34% of Jamaica’s GDP.

The statistic ‘In 2019, tourism contributed to 34% of Jamaica’s GDP’ indicates the significant economic impact of the tourism industry on Jamaica’s overall economic output for that year. This means that over a third of Jamaica’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP) was directly generated by activities related to tourism, such as accommodation, transportation, entertainment, and other tourist expenditures. A high percentage contribution from tourism suggests that the industry plays a crucial role in driving economic growth, creating employment opportunities, and stimulating related sectors such as hospitality, retail, and transportation. Additionally, it underscores the country’s reliance on tourism as a key source of revenue and underscores the importance of the industry to the overall economic health and stability of Jamaica.

In 2019, a record 4.2 million tourists visited Jamaica.

The statistic “In 2019, a record 4.2 million tourists visited Jamaica” reflects the substantial growth and popularity of Jamaica as a tourist destination during that year. The figure indicates a significant increase in the number of visitors compared to previous years, showcasing Jamaica’s appeal and attractiveness to travelers worldwide. This influx of tourists has likely had positive impacts on the country’s economy through increased spending on accommodations, dining, activities, and souvenirs, as well as supporting local businesses and creating job opportunities in the tourism industry. Additionally, the record-breaking number of tourists underscores Jamaica’s position as a leading Caribbean destination known for its beautiful beaches, vibrant culture, and warm hospitality.

About 70% of Jamaica’s visitors are from the U.S.

The statistic “About 70% of Jamaica’s visitors are from the U.S.” indicates that a significant majority of tourists traveling to Jamaica come from the United States. This high proportion suggests a strong tourism relationship between Jamaica and the U.S., with American visitors playing a crucial role in driving the country’s tourism industry. Factors such as geographical proximity, flight accessibility, cultural ties, and marketing strategies may contribute to the prevalence of U.S. visitors in Jamaica. Understanding this statistic is essential for stakeholders in the Jamaican tourism sector to cater effectively to American tourists’ needs and preferences while also diversifying their visitor base to ensure long-term sustainability and growth in the industry.

More than 70% of travelers who visit Jamaica do so for leisure purposes.

The statement “More than 70% of travelers who visit Jamaica do so for leisure purposes” indicates that a significant majority of individuals traveling to Jamaica are doing so for recreational or relaxation purposes rather than for business, educational, or other reasons. This statistic suggests that Jamaica is predominantly seen as a leisure destination and that the country’s tourism industry caters largely to vacationers looking for activities such as beach relaxation, sightseeing, and cultural experiences. Understanding the motivations behind travel to Jamaica can help tourism authorities and businesses tailor their offerings and marketing strategies to better meet the needs and preferences of their target audience.

In 2019, the cruise passenger arrivals were about 1.5 million, marking a decline of 9.5% over 2018.

The statistic indicates that in 2019, the number of cruise passengers that arrived was approximately 1.5 million, which represents a decrease of 9.5% compared to the previous year, 2018. This decline suggests a reduction in the popularity or demand for cruise travel during that year. Potential reasons for this decrease could include external factors such as economic conditions, geopolitical events, or changes in consumer behavior. This information is important for stakeholders in the cruise industry, as it highlights a significant shift in passenger volume and may necessitate strategic adjustments to attract and retain customers in the future.

30% of total foreign exchange earnings in Jamaica comes from the travel and tourism sectors.

The statistic that 30% of total foreign exchange earnings in Jamaica comes from the travel and tourism sectors indicates the significant contribution of this industry to the country’s economy. Foreign exchange earnings play a crucial role in boosting a country’s reserves and promoting economic growth through increased international trade and investment opportunities. The high percentage attributed to travel and tourism suggests that Jamaica relies heavily on this sector to generate revenue from foreign visitors, highlighting the sector’s importance in driving economic activity and employment opportunities within the country. Additionally, it underscores the need for continued investment and support for the travel and tourism industries to sustain and further enhance their contribution to Jamaica’s overall foreign exchange earnings.

Hotel accommodation revenue in Jamaica for 2019 was $1.7 billion.

The statistic ‘Hotel accommodation revenue in Jamaica for 2019 was $1.7 billion’ represents the total amount of money earned by hotels in Jamaica from providing accommodation services in the year 2019. This figure is a reflection of the financial performance of the hotel industry in Jamaica during that time period, indicating the level of demand for lodging in the country. The revenue generated from hotel accommodations is a crucial economic indicator for the tourism sector, as it demonstrates the contribution of the hospitality industry to the overall economy of Jamaica and highlights the significance of tourism as a key revenue-generating sector for the country.

In 2020, tourist volume in Jamaica shrank by 68% compared to 2019.

The statistic indicates that the number of tourists visiting Jamaica in 2020 decreased significantly by 68% in comparison to the previous year, 2019. This substantial decline suggests a major impact on Jamaica’s tourism industry, likely attributed to the global pandemic of COVID-19 that led to travel restrictions, lockdowns, and overall decreased travel confidence among tourists. The sharp decline in tourist volume could have severe economic implications for Jamaica, as tourism plays a crucial role in the country’s overall economy, including job creation, revenue generation, and supporting various sectors such as hospitality, transportation, and entertainment. This statistic underscores the challenges faced by the tourism industry in 2020 and emphasizes the importance of strategies to revive and sustain tourism activities in the future.

The average tourist spends $2,000 per visit, markedly driving Jamaica’s forex earnings.

The statistic that the average tourist spends $2,000 per visit is indicative of the significant economic impact of tourism on Jamaica’s foreign exchange earnings. With tourists contributing such a substantial amount of money during their visits, it not only boosts the local economy but also plays a crucial role in increasing the country’s foreign exchange reserves. This statistic highlights the importance of tourism as a key driver of economic growth and development in Jamaica, potentially leading to further investments in the tourism sector to attract more visitors and enhance the overall economic well-being of the country.

Tourism accounted for 236,200 jobs in Jamaica by 2019.

The statistic that tourism accounted for 236,200 jobs in Jamaica by 2019 indicates the significant impact of the tourism industry on the country’s economy and employment sector. This data suggests that a substantial portion of the Jamaican workforce is employed in jobs related to tourism, including positions in hotels, restaurants, transportation, tour guiding, and other related services. The figure highlights the importance of the tourism sector as a major contributor to job creation and economic growth in Jamaica. Additionally, it underscores the need for the government and industry stakeholders to continue supporting and investing in the tourism industry to maintain and potentially expand the employment opportunities it provides.

Direct contribution of travel and tourism to employment was 9.3% of total employment in Jamaica in 2019.

The statistic “Direct contribution of travel and tourism to employment was 9.3% of total employment in Jamaica in 2019” indicates the proportion of jobs directly supported by the travel and tourism industry in Jamaica during the specified year. This percentage represents the share of total employment in the country that can be attributed to activities related to travel and tourism, such as hotels, transportation, attractions, and other related services. A higher percentage suggests that the travel and tourism sector plays a significant role in providing jobs and economic opportunities for the local workforce in Jamaica. Understanding this statistic is crucial for policymakers, businesses, and stakeholders to assess the industry’s impact on job creation, income generation, and overall economic development in the country.

‘Tourism Linkages Network’ estimated that tourists spend about $75 million on local craft items annually in Jamaica.

The statistic provided by the ‘Tourism Linkages Network’ suggests that tourists visiting Jamaica contribute significantly to the local economy by spending approximately $75 million on local craft items each year. This statistic highlights the impact of tourism on supporting local artisans and businesses through the sale of handmade craft products. By purchasing these items, tourists not only contribute financially to the local economy but also help preserve and promote Jamaican cultural heritage. The substantial amount spent by tourists underscores the importance of the tourism industry in fostering economic growth and sustainability in Jamaica.

In 2018, 64.3% of spending in Jamaica’s travel and tourism sector was leisure spending.

The statistic indicates that in 2018, 64.3% of the total spending within Jamaica’s travel and tourism sector was attributed to leisure spending. This means that a significant portion of the money spent by tourists and travelers in Jamaica was dedicated to recreational activities, entertainment, and non-essential items rather than business-related expenses. This can reflect a strong emphasis on vacation and leisure travel within the country, potentially highlighting Jamaica’s appeal as a leisure destination. Understanding this breakdown of spending can provide valuable insights for businesses and policymakers in the travel and tourism industry to tailor their offerings to meet the needs and preferences of leisure travelers and to further foster the growth of this sector in Jamaica.

Globally, Jamaica was ranked 13th for its dependency on tourism in 2017.

The statistic that globally, Jamaica was ranked 13th for its dependency on tourism in 2017 indicates that among countries around the world, Jamaica relied relatively heavily on tourism as a significant source of revenue and economic activity during that year. This ranking suggests that tourism played a substantial role in driving Jamaica’s economy, with a large portion of the country’s income and jobs being directly or indirectly linked to the tourism industry. The ranking at 13th position highlights the importance of tourism as a key economic sector for Jamaica and underscores the vulnerability of the country’s economy to fluctuations in tourism-related factors such as international travel trends and natural disasters.

References

0. – https://www.www.caribbeannewsdigital.com

1. – https://www.www.worldbank.org

2. – https://www.www.statista.com

3. – https://www.www.jamaicaobserver.com

4. – https://www.www.worldatlas.com

5. – https://www.www.cepal.org

6. – https://www.www.wttc.org

7. – https://www.www.straitstimes.com

8. – https://www.jis.gov.jm

How we write our statistic reports:

We have not conducted any studies ourselves. Our article provides a summary of all the statistics and studies available at the time of writing. We are solely presenting a summary, not expressing our own opinion. We have collected all statistics within our internal database. In some cases, we use Artificial Intelligence for formulating the statistics. The articles are updated regularly.

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