Tourism Policy & Tax: The Jamaica Hotel and Tourist Association (JHTA) says it has hired PwC to run an independent impact assessment of the proposed jump in tourism’s General Consumption Tax (GCT) from 10% to 15% effective April 2027, after members approved funding to ensure the debate is driven by evidence. Air Travel Pressure: Opposition tourism spokesperson Andrea Purkiss is pushing Minister Edmund Bartlett to explain how Jamaica will respond to soaring airfares and a drop in non-resident arrivals, citing examples of very high return fares from Florida and warning that visitor numbers don’t mean travel is affordable for Jamaicans. Regional Capacity Watch: Caribbean air travel is seeing a year-on-year decline in seat capacity (down 4.2% in July), with analysts pointing to Hurricane Melissa’s effects, airport and hotel impacts in Jamaica, and airline changes including the collapse of Spirit. Tourism Recovery Update: Royalton Negril has reopened as Jamaica’s tourism recovery gains momentum, with the wider sector continuing to push for stability and growth. Beaches & Access: A fresh look at Jamaica’s best beaches highlights public beach upgrades and the ongoing debate around access, with Seven Mile Beach, Frenchman’s Cove and Winnifred among the standouts. Marine Conservation: NEPA begins coral spawning observation dives across Jamaica’s marine ecosystems, warning reef health has slipped to “critical” and linking reef protection directly to coastal safety and tourism. Community & Tourism Link: Tourism Minister Edmund Bartlett pledged support for residents affected by the Coopers Pen demolition in Trelawny, with plans for relocation and longer-term assistance involving the tourism sector. Safety & Travel Risk: A Florida human trafficking sting recovered 163 missing children in Operation Statewide Shield, underscoring the risks travellers and families face and the need for strong protection systems.