Jamaica Tourism Looking to Untapped Markets

JAPEX to focus on Caribbean, Latin America, Eastern Europe

By Dana Niland
CJ Contributor

Jamaica’s looking to diversify its tourism source markets.

The 25th annual Jamaica Product Exchange (JAPEX), set to take place Montego Bay Convention Centre from September 20-22, will place special focus on the markets of the Caribbean, Latin America and Eastern Europea, according to the Jamaica Tourist Board.

As the island’s premier travel trade show, JAPEX serves as a forum for leading suppliers product to convene with tour operators and travel wholesalers.

“This annual trade show provides the ideal opportunity for qualified international buyers, travel wholesalers and tour operators to learn about the island’s tourism product from our top suppliers,” said Paul Pennicook, Jamaica’s Director of Tourism. “It’s an important marketing and networking forum, providing a great opportunity for our local tourism partners, particularly the smaller companies, to meet directly with the trade industry and update them on what’s new in our marketplace.”

In 2014, 113 buyers, 277 participants from 105 supplier companies, and 30 media members from around the world attended the exhibition, which is hosted by the Jamaica Tourist Board and the Jamaica Hotel and Tourist Association (JHTA).

Registration is currently underway for this year, and JHTA President Nicola Madden-Greig said that it is anticipated that over 200 buyers and 100 travel agents will attend this year.

“With the expansion in both hotel room stock and attractions as well as major upgrades of several product across the destination, tour operators who have not previously sold Jamaica should take a closer look and participate this year because the island is in demand,” she said. “The market is loving Jamaica and they should not miss an opportunity to sell what is becoming a truly magnificent product.”