Bartlett appeals for authentic Jamaican souvenirs

Tourism Minister Edmund Bartlett is urging Jamaica’s craft vendors and artisans to stop relying on imported souvenirs and create products that show visitors the island’s culture and creativity.

Bartlett said the planned physical transformation of Montego Bay’s Old Fort Craft Market would mean little if vendors did not also modernise what they produce and how they market it.

The market is set for a $53.5-million rehabilitation project. The minister’s appeal links the investment in the site to a broader push for more authentic Jamaican products.