Tourism Overhaul: Tourism Minister Edmund Bartlett says Jamaica is moving to modernise sector oversight with a new Tourism Authority and supporting legislation, aimed at making governance “clearer, faster and stronger” under the Tourism 3.0 agenda. Macroeconomic Pressure: STATIN data shows Jamaica’s economy contracted 4.1% in Q1, with declines across goods and services—hit hardest by agriculture (-18.3%) and accommodation/food (-16.6%)—while manufacturing edged up 0.6%. Jobs Cooling: Unemployment rose to 3.7% (from 3.3%), as employment fell by 25,700 and the labour force shrank, with more people outside the labour force. Labour Market & Disaster Fallout: The latest Labour Force Survey links the weaker employment picture to ongoing disruptions after Hurricane Melissa. Digital Tax Risk: A proposed 15% GCT on digitally supplied services is drawing concern after a US tariff threat tied to digital services taxes, with industry warning of knock-on effects for Jamaica’s economy. Resort Investment: Sandals confirms reopening dates for three Jamaica properties after a combined US$200m renovation, with Sandals South Coast reopening Nov. 18, 2026 and Montego Bay plus the renamed Sandals Caribbean Cay reopening Dec. 18, 2026. Culinary Credentials: Elite Island Resorts chefs in Antigua and Barbuda earn American Culinary Federation Certified Executive Chef designations, highlighting skills development in the hospitality workforce. Sports Infrastructure: Olivia Grange announces a new sports hall and a dedicated throws area adjacent to Stadium East to support throws athletes and upgrades to the venue.