Bartlett defends JTB Bill amid Airbnb concerns
Published:Thursday | July 3, 2025 | 6:02 PM
Tourism Minister Edmund Bartlett is pushing back against mounting criticism of the proposed Jamaica Tourist Board Bill 2025.
He insists the legislation does not impose new taxes or unfairly target Airbnb and other short-term rental operators.
In a press release issued today, Bartlett described the legislation as part of a broader strategy to modernise Jamaica’s tourism framework while protecting Brand Jamaica and strengthening standards across all accommodation types.
“The JTB Act does not legislate taxation on accommodation or any other enterprise,” Bartlett stated, addressing widespread concerns sparked by parliamentary debate on the Bill in the House of Representatives on Tuesday.“The Bill aims to establish a fair, transparent system that safeguards quality, safety, security, and consistency.”
The Minister emphasised that the framework, guided by the Destination Assurance Framework, is focused on raising service standards and ensuring a more coordinated tourism sector.
He stressed that under the proposed changes, small-scale homestay operations, defined as one to nine rooms and occupied by the owner, will be required to register but not required to obtain a licence.
Similarly, apartments prohibited from short-term rentals by their strata corporations will only need to register.
Bartlett’s statement comes in the wake of strong opposition from People’s National Party President and Opposition Leader Mark Golding, who earlier this week condemned elements of the Bill as punitive.
Golding warned that Airbnb operators could face fines of up to $1 million and up to 12 months in prison for non-compliance, a clause he said could amount to a “sword of Damocles” hanging over small entrepreneurs.
Golding also argued that the government’s approach was selective, disproportionately targeting short-term rental operators while leaving other sectors like attractions and transportation less burdened.
He called for more comprehensive consultation and time for operators to comply.
In response, Bartlett reaffirmed that the legislation is the result of extensive stakeholder input and remains open to further dialogue.
“We remain fully committed to continued engagement with all stakeholders to ensure that the final framework… is practical, balanced, and aligned with the shared goal of sustainable growth,” Bartlett said.
The updated Bill, which will repeal the Jamaica Tourist Board Act of 1955, is expected to be tabled in the next parliamentary cycle.
It forms part of the government’s broader push to elevate destination assurance and enhance visitor experiences in an increasingly competitive global tourism landscape.
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