Jamaica’s tourism sector could soon undergo its biggest legislative overhaul in decades, with Tourism Minister Edmund Bartlett announcing plans to repeal and replace the Tourism Act as part of a sweeping restructuring of the industry.

The announcement marks the most significant proposed change to the sector since the Tourism Act was established 72 years ago under the framework that created the Jamaica Tourist Board.

Speaking at the Tourism Enhancement Fund’s Speed Networking event at the Montego Bay Convention Centre on Thursday, Bartlett said the move forms part of a wider “Tourism 3.0” strategy aimed at ensuring that Jamaicans retain a greater share of the wealth generated by the island’s tourism industry.