News

Jamaica Promotions Corporation (JAMPRO) urges buyers to allocate more shelf space for local producers, enhancing employment opportunities, livelihoods, and ultimately the nation’s economy.

At a recent agriculture-tourism linkages forum hosted by JAMPRO, Marlene Porter, Manager of JAMPRO’s Agribusiness Investments and Linkages department, emphasized the importance of reinforcing synergy between supporting and consuming local products within these sectors.

“If we don’t work with the domestic sector, we won’t be able to pull up the economy to have the kind of growth that can support all of us,” she stressed.

She advocated for stronger cooperation between sectors and the pursuit of import substitution strategies, highlighting the potential for significant economic benefits.

“Hospitality peers are encouraged to use more locally. We’re asking that you consider our chefs, and how else we can incorporate local products into cuisines, supermarkets and shelf spaces. JAMPRO remains committed to working with you to be one of those facilitators to help you get those linkages going,” she emphasized.

Jamaica’s Tourism and Agriculture industries are two priority sectors which have helped to drive the economic progress of the country. The local agriculture-tourism linkages network plays a vital role in meeting the demands of both sectors.

According to the Planning Institute of Jamaica (PIOJ) 2022 Economic and Social Survey, the tourism sector contributed 5.9% to GDP and employed 8.7% of the total labor force, while the agriculture sector contributed 8.3% to GDP and employed 14.5% of the labor force.

With Jamaica’s tourist visits reflecting consistent growth in numbers, it is expected that greater output and collaboration between both sectors will be paramount to effectively supply the growing demands.

During the linkage forum, Corey Leonard, Restaurant Manager and Coordinator for Scotchies Drax Hall, expressed satisfaction with the quality of agriculture suppliers his business connected with during the forum. He noted their interest in incorporating more locally sourced ground provisions.

“I’ve met with suppliers with various products that I’ve never seen before. I’ve seen a lot of agro-based producers as well, so it’s really going well, especially since our company is looking forward to incorporating more ground provisions, as opposed to frozen items,” he said.

First-time participant and owner of Caihill’s Fruits and Vegetables, Amando Johnson lauded the forum as one which “opened his eyes to growth possibilities,” for his business.

“It was a very good experience and I’m happy I came here. I met some people who can help me greatly with my business and after I met with a few of the buyers, I am better prepared now to supply them according to their needs,” he informed.

JAMPRO, as Jamaica’s premier agency facilitating exports, investment, and linkages across sectors, continues to offer matchmaking opportunities for stakeholders to conduct business efficiently.

Stakeholders are encouraged to contact JAMPRO’s investment team at info@dobusinessjamaica.com for facilitation services in both sectors.