Johnny Gourzong (Executive producer of Reggae Sumfest) cites reduced sponsor support and increased production and artiste fees as some of the challenges being faced. He said, Reggae Sumfest is important to Jamaicas tourism and impacts positively on the economy and despite reduced sponsorship, we decided it was important to beat the odds and host the Festival this year.

Traditionally, Reggae Sumfest has hosted a mixture of local and international acts, thus giving the event an eclectic mix of good music and performers. In light of the fiscal challenges, Summerfest Promotions reportedly gave great consideration to omitting international acts for this years Festival. Stakeholders agreed however, that international acts should be included on this years lineup, as the mix of genres and cultures is the essence of the event, and that such a cut back would adversely affect Reggae Sumfests marketability. More soon.