Jamaica to host JAPEX 2026 in Ocho Rios as tourism sector continues hurricane recovery

Jamaica will welcome international tourism buyers and industry partners to Ocho Rios later this month for the 36th staging of the Jamaica Product Exchange (JAPEX), as the country continues to rebuild its tourism sector following Hurricane Melissa.

The annual tourism trade show will be held from September 14 to 17, marking its return to Ocho Rios for the first time in more than a decade.

Tourism Minister Edmund Bartlett, speaking at the official launch of JAPEX 2026, said the event comes as Jamaica seeks to strengthen its position in the global tourism market and attract new business.

“Jamaica is open and Jamaica is ready to welcome more tourism opportunities,” Bartlett said.

According to the minister, approximately 80% of hotels across the island have reopened following Hurricane Melissa, with the remaining properties expected to resume operations during the first quarter of 2027.

Bartlett said the decision to stage JAPEX in Ocho Rios has taken on added significance following the hurricane’s impact on western Jamaica, providing an opportunity to highlight the recovery and resilience of the country’s tourism industry.

He described the reopening of most hotels as “a powerful signal” of confidence in Jamaica’s tourism product.

JAPEX is presented by the Jamaica Hotel and Tourist Association (JHTA) in partnership with the Jamaica Tourist Board (JTB) and brings together Jamaican tourism suppliers and international travel buyers for meetings, contract negotiations and other business opportunities.

“JAPEX is not a showcase of speeches alone. It is a marketplace of opportunity,” Bartlett said.

This year’s event also comes as Jamaica pursues its Tourism 3.0 strategy, which includes efforts to expand beyond its traditional visitor markets.

Bartlett said the country is increasing its focus on Latin America and other emerging international markets while working to strengthen airlift connectivity and increase investment in destination marketing.

“Even amid global uncertainty, shifting travel patterns and the challenges nature has placed before us, Jamaica’s tourism sector continues to do what it has always done: adapt, innovate, and grow,” he said.

Bartlett urged international buyers attending JAPEX to deepen their relationships with Jamaican tourism businesses and explore new opportunities in the sector.

He also called on local suppliers and exhibitors to use the four-day event to promote Jamaica’s tourism offerings to the international travel trade.