Casino Expansion: Jamaica is set to welcome its first licensed casino before the peak winter season, after Adamas Grand Casino won the inaugural licence for Princess Grand Jamaica Resort in Green Island, Hanover—while Tourism Minister Edmund Bartlett says at least three other integrated resort projects are already seeking licences, including a Hard Rock proposal at Rose Hall. Africa–Caribbean Tourism Links: Ghana President John Dramani Mahama’s four-day state visit to Jamaica is pushing deeper cooperation in trade, health, education, air services and tourism, with direct-flight talks between Accra and Montego Bay flagged as a key boost for visitors and business. Tourism Policy Watch: Jamaica Hotel and Tourist Association (JHTA) and the Ministry of Finance will continue talks on a proposed tourism General Consumption Tax increase from 10% to 15% effective April 1, 2027, with industry leaders warning it could hit competitiveness and jobs. Eco-Tourism on the Coast: Hanover’s Lucea Fish Sanctuary is getting an office opening and a plan to turn sanctuaries into ecotourism attractions—aiming for sustainable income through eco-tours and marine-linked activities. On-the-Ground Travel Ops: WestJet’s one-day cabin crew strike over compensation has ended, but Jamaica-bound travel was disrupted, with MBJ Airports reporting cancellations and awaiting passenger impact data. Safety & Access: Police issued guidance and traffic changes for the 2026 Independence Day Grand Gala at the National Stadium, including a strict no-weapons/no-harm items rule for entry.