DAVIE – Jamaica’s Minister of Industry, Technology, Energy and Commerce, Hon. Phillip Paulwell, has stated that despite the challenges, the manufacturing sector remains a major pillar of the Jamaican economy.
Speaking at the recent two day trade and business expo of the Jamaica USA Chamber of Commerce (JAUSACC) and the Jamaica Manufacturers Association (JMA), in Fort Lauderdale, Minister Paulwell said that in 2005, the sector contributed just over 13.4% of the GDP, surpassing the combined contribution of other goods-producing sectors such as agriculture and mining and employing some 72,000 persons which was nearly 7% of the total labor force.
Calling on the Jamaican productive sector to find ways to diversify its output, the Minister challenged manufacturers to continue to exploit competitive advantages, target niche markets, be innovate and creative in marketing strategies and enhance productivity.
The Minister lauded the efforts of the partnership established by both organizations – JAUSACC and JMA – and noted that JAUSACC would be given full access to all the Jamaican state agencies to facilitate a clear role in linking business with Jamaica.
At the same time, he commended the Jamaican Diaspora for generating a significant crossover marketplace to the wider North American population, noting that the South Florida community has been one of the premier markets for distribution of Jamaica’s goods and services as well as the home away from home for many Jamaicans.
He spoke of the many Jamaican companies, which have successfully positioned themselves in the international market as exclusively Jamaican, some of which included Walkerswood, Gray’s Pepper Products, Busha Browne, Blue Mountain Aromatics and Starfish Oil among others.
These companies, he continued have been in the vanguard of the surge in non-traditional exports. As they adhere to the local and international standards integrating the latest technology in their productive processes, they have boldly embrace the competitive challenges of the global economy, he informed.
As manufacturers were becoming increasingly aware of the heightened sense of awareness, knowledge and taste of the modern sophisticated consumer, Minister Paulwell stated that those companies were adapting, planning and retooling more efficiently and effectively. “Successful business persons in Jamaica tend to see these strict and demanding requirements as challenges,” he added.
Also speaking at the trade expo was President of the Jamaica Manufacturers Association, Ms. Doreen Frankson who urged manufacturers to take advantage of the interest in Jamaican products and services. Already, there has been interest in processed foods, aromatherapy and apparel.
While there was much more scope for growth of Jamaican goods within the global marketplace, Ms. Frankson indicated that the involvement of our manufacturers and entrepreneurs in the two-day expo reflected the determination and commitment of those participants to produce world class goods and services and position ‘Brand Jamaica’ in its rightful place in the global economy.
She reiterated the need to capitalize on the strength of the Jamaican brand, making the products and services more appealing to a wider consumer base, as it was evident that ‘Brand Jamaica’ had engaged all ages, color, creed and cultures.
She commended the synergy established by the two organizations coordinating the event mentioning that this effort will assist in strengthening the business relationship with the Diaspora.
Consul General Ricardo Allicock and President of JAUSACC, Ms. Marie Gill also echoed similar sentiments indicating the partnership and business synergy established through this combined effort of talent and resources.
The two-day event closed with JAUSACC’s annual recognition luncheon at which twelve Diasporic community leaders were presented with plaques noteworthy of their entrepreneurial and leadership dynamism in the South Florida community.
Since its inception in March 2003, the Jamaica USA Chamber of Commerce has been deliberate in its efforts to promote trade and investment within the Jamaican Diaspora, as well as significantly improving international trade activities.
The South Florida region of the USA houses the second largest Jamaican community in North America, as well as the largest contingent of Jamaican-owned small businesses.
