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With the global population on the rise, ensuring food security has never been more crucial.

The World Economic Forum projects a 56% increase in food demand by 2050. Aligning with the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goal (SDGs) of ending hunger, Jamaica is positioned as an ideal hub for Orchard Crop investments, backed by the relentless efforts of the Jamaica Promotions Corporation (JAMPRO).

JAMAICA’s GROWING ECONOMY

Jamaica’s economy has seen substantial growth over the last 30 years, resulting in the status of the country transitioning from least developed to middle-income status. The country consistently reports periods of Gross Domestic Product (GDP) growth and established itself as a leading competitive investment destination in Latin America and the Caribbean region.

The economic overview of the country’s 2022/23 performance shows that Real GDP grew by 4.3% with notable achievements being US$1.9 billion recorded for exports and unemployment falling to an impressive 4.5% in 2023.

Currently, over 40% of Jamaica’s land area is classified as good arable agricultural lands and approximately 15% of that amount is cultivated.

With the agricultural sector being one of the key economic earners for the country, the industry houses enormous potential for the expansion of Orchard Farms.

ORCHARD FARMING: WEATHER AND CROP VARIETIES

Jamaica’s tropical climate ensures year-round cultivation opportunities. Additionally, its underground water availability and robust agro-ecosystem leads to a unique flavour profile and high-quality produce like mango, ackee, breadfruit, avocado, ginger, turmeric, and yams.

Brand Jamaica continues to expand even beyond diasporans, consistently bolstering a high demand for Jamaican produce. By investing in Orchards for these crops, investors could access the untapped potential of US$3 billion for Mango; US$6 billion for Breadfruit and US$2.9 billion for Avocado.

Other produce such as papaya, cocoa, coffee, lemons and oranges are also in great demand

locally and internationally.

ORCHARD FARMING: MOVEMENT OF GOODS

Orchard Farms supplies a wide range of opportunities and yields which not only supplies traditional export markets such as the United States (USA), United Kingdom (UK) and Canada but also the domestic linkages network between Jamaica’s agriculture and the booming tourism sector.

Reaching traditional, new and emerging markets is supported by Jamaica’s strategic location and housing of one of the largest natural harbours in the world.

Kingston Wharves Limited (KWL) is globally recognized as the region’s leading multipurpose port terminal operator, connecting Jamaica’s importers and exporters to over 140 ports globally. The 25-hectare terminal offers 22 hectares of open storage with 30,000 square meters of covered warehousing and cold storage.

Air transportation facilitated through the island’s two main terminals – Norman Manley International Airport in Kingston and the Sangster International Airport in Montego Bay helps to provide continual movement of the increase in passengers and goods.

Jamaica remains in a strong position to meet the demands of a fast-paced and efficient movement of high volumes of goods.

FACILITATION FOR INVESTORS

JAMPRO serves as an agency of the Ministry of Industry, Investment and Commerce and is Jamaica’s export and investment promotion agency, responsible for facilitating the growth and development of the country’s export and investment sectors.

The agency offers a wide range of investor support services including market penetration, research, business approvals, capacity building, market intelligence, business matchmaking and site selection, among others.
For more information, contact agribusinessinvest@dobusinessjamaica.com or Tel: 1 (876) 978-7755