Tourism Resilience Conference aims to boost digital transformation
Published:Thursday | January 16, 2025 | 12:11 AMJanet Silvera/Gleaner Writer
WESTERN BUREAU:
From global pandemics to climate-related challenges, the tourism industry’s resilience has been tested in unprecedented ways in recent years.
In response, stakeholders, increasingly, are recognising the need for innovative solutions that not only ensure survival but also foster sustainable growth.
Events like the upcoming Global Tourism Resilience Conference, which is set to take place at the island’s newest hotel, Princess Resorts, in Hanover, is expected to play a pivotal role in shaping the future by providing a platform for exploring cutting-edge technologies and strategies essential to the industry’s adaptability and long-term viability.
Announced officially for February 17 to February 19, the conference will focus on ‘Building Tourism Resilience through Digital Transformation’ and aims to explore the transformative potential of technology in ensuring the sustainability and adaptability of the global tourism industry.
In making the announcement yesterday, Tourism Minister Edmund Bartlett highlighted the significance of the event, which aligns with Jamaica’s leadership in establishing February 17 as Global Tourism Resilience Day, a milestone recognised by the United Nations (UN).
“We are honoured to be the second country in the world to secure a UN tourism designation of this nature,” he remarked, referencing the historical precedent set nearly 50 years ago by Nigeria with World Tourism Day.
The conference will delve into cutting-edge technologies and strategies vital for the tourism sector’s long-term sustainability, particularly in light of recent global disruptions. Day One will feature innovations such as artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, augmented and virtual reality, and the Internet of Things (IoT). These technologies will be examined for their potential to enhance disaster preparedness, resource management, and the overall visitor experience.
On the second day, discussions will pivot to integrating digital technology within the blue economy. Bartlett noted the importance of sustainable marine and coastal tourism, with insights from partners like Eco Canada.
“We will also explore innovative financing solutions to support investment in digital resilience,” he added, referencing the involvement of International Tourism Investment Corporation Limited.
The final day will showcase Jamaica’s resilient tourism infrastructure and feature a ministerial roundtable addressing the future of digital technologies in enhancing tourism resilience. This practical component will offer attendees a firsthand look at how theoretical strategies are implemented to achieve tangible results.
Cybersecurity’s role
The conference’s agenda includes expert panels on pivotal topics such as leveraging big data for effective resource management, ensuring robust cybersecurity to protect digital and physical assets, and discussing financial strategies to fund digital-resilience projects. An accompanying expo will feature technological innovations, including advanced tools for crisis management and sustainable tourism practices.
Bartlett emphasised the critical role of cybersecurity, stating, “The integrity of the tourism product and the visitor experience must be guaranteed and enhanced as we integrate more digital solutions. Comprehensive cybersecurity measures are essential to achieving this.”
The event also seeks to foster collaboration among technology providers, financial institutions, and tourism stakeholders. Bartlett described this as an opportunity for participants to forge partnerships, exchange ideas, and explore integrated solutions for a resilient tourism industry.
Reflecting on tourism’s global impact, Bartlett highlighted the industry’s transformative power.
“Tourism has turned sleepy fishing villages into bustling hubs of economic activity. Today, the industry employs 11 per cent of the global workforce and contributes 10 per cent of global GDP. Here in the Caribbean, tourism accounts for over 50 per cent of the region’s GDP, and in Jamaica, it is 30 per cent,” he said.
He also underscored the importance of knowledge-based tourism, noting that experiential and idea-driven tourism will shape the future.
“New ideas mean new experiences and opportunities for economic empowerment. Tourism is the outcome of powerful ideas and innovations that create lasting economic benefits.”