Ministry of Industry, Investment & Commerce, Jamaica.

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Day, 00 Mth 2012 00:00:00 EST

Industry Minister Moving to Position Jamaica as a Major Logistics Hub in the Caribbean Region

Fri, 10 Feb 2012 16:45:00 EST

Minister of Industry, Investment and Commerce, Hon. Anthony Hylton, sees tremendous benefits for Jamaica as a major logistics hub in the Caribbean.

The Minister, speaking following a tour of the Wray and Nephew plant on Spanish Town Road on Thursday, February 09, 2012, said the Government is totally committed to the concept of Jamaica being a major logistical hub in the Caribbean.

According to the Minister, a clear well-defined strategy is now being put together by the Ministry of Industry, Investment and Commerce and in a short while he will be articulating to the Jamaican public that there is tremendous benefit in Jamaica moving as quickly as possible to seize the opportunity to develop its capability as a local logistics centre and as a whole, a major logistics hub.

Minister Hylton Affirms Commitment to Local Industry

Fri, 03 Feb 2012 17:49:00 EST

Minister of Industry, Investment and Commerce, Hon. Anthony Hylton, has declared the Government’s firm commitment not to partake in the de-industrialization of Jamaica.

Speaking following a tour of the Red Stripe Beer plant, Spanish Town Road, on Wednesday, February 01, the industry Minister firmly stated that under his leadership and that of the Most Honourable Portia Simpson-Miller, the government will not be “acquiescent in the de-industrialisation of Jamaica”.

Minster Hylton said this pronouncement carries with it, the commitment of the Government to work with the manufacturing sector to rebuild the capabilities of the sector and ensure that the sector increases its share of GDP in the Jamaican economy.

JBDC TO HOST MANUAL PATTERN MAKING WORKSHOP FOR MSME OPERATORS

Tue, 31 Jan 2012 18:30:00 EST

The Jamaica Business Development Corporation’s (JBDC) Incubator and Resource Centre, located at 76 Marcus Garvey Drive, in Kingston, will be hosting a Manual Pattern Making workshop from January 31 to April 24, aimed at assisting micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) to improve their operations and increase their efficiency.

The 13-week workshop covers basic and intermediate pattern making and targets designers, manufacturers, tailors, pattern makers, dressmakers and clothing and textile trainers.

Facilitator for the workshop, Delrose Campbell, explained that the pattern making course aims to introduce creative design for clothes, through the drafting and flat pattern method.

MANUFACTURING CRITICAL TO JAMAICA�S ECONoMY

Tue, 31 Jan 2012 18:15:00 EST

Minister of Industry, Investment and Commerce, Hon. Anthony Hylton has assured members of the Jamaica Manufacturers’ Association (JMA) that the manufacturing industry remains critical to Jamaica’s sustained growth prospect, under the current administration.

According to the Minister, the JMA is one of the most critical organizations in the country as its impact on the economy represents the critical constituency in the private sector, and its ability to get the job done will directly impact on our prospects for growth and economic development.

Minister Hylton was addressing senior executives of the JMA at the Ministry’s New Kingston office on January 17, 2012.

BUSINESSES URGED TO DEEPEN PARTICIPATION IN EFFORTS TO GROW ECONOMY

Tue, 31 Jan 2012 18:00:00 EST

Minister of Industry, Investment and Commerce, Hon. Anthony Hylton, is urging businesses to deepen participation in national growth efforts, in this the country’s 50th year of independence.

He also called on all sectors to be accountable to each other and the nation for their roles in growing the economy.

�Every sector has a responsibility to join in the efforts to move us towards growth and development. Participation, accountability and responsibility � these are the principles from our progressive agenda that as a new Government we have to emphasise. These are the principles we bring to the table as the philosophies that will guide our action,� Mr. Hylton said.

GOV�T COMMITTED TO LOW INFLATION AND INTEREST RATES

Tue, 31 Jan 2012 17:42:00 EST

Minister of Industry, Investment and Commerce, Hon. Anthony Hylton has assured that there will be no return to a regime of high interest rates, eemphasizing his administration’s commitment to policies, which will achieve low interest rates and low inflation.

The Minister�s reassurance was in response to concerns raised by immediate past president of the Jamaica Manufacturer�s Association (JMA), Omar Azan during a visit by representatives of the organization, to the Ministry in New Kingston on January 16, 2012.

According to Mr. Azan, anxiety of a return to high interest rates has been triggered by the stated �possible reengagement� of the previous Governor of the Bank of Jamaica, given the rates of interest that prevailed during his tenure.

HYLTON ASSURES TRADE BOARD OF MINISTRY�S SUPPORT

Tue, 31 Jan 2012 17:30:00 EST

The priority of the new administration is to grow the Jamaican economy and generate employment with state agencies, such as the Trade Board, playing a critical role. This was stated by Minister of Industry, Investment and Commerce, Hon. Anthony Hylton, during a familiarization tour of the downtown Kingston offices of the Trade Board, on Thursday (January 12). According to the Minister, despite the challenges, including financial constraints, professionalism, hard work and integrity must be the guiding principles of the management and staff of the organization, and his Ministry, which has portfolio responsibility for trade and commerce, will provide the best possible support.

INDUSTRY MINISTER MEETS WITH MANUFACTURERS

Tue, 31 Jan 2012 13:49:00 EST

Minister of Industry, Investment and Commerce, Hon. Anthony Hylton has assured manufacturers that the sector, under his watch, will regain its status as a critical driver of economic growth and development. Addressing a delegation from the Jamaica Manufacturers� Association (JMA) at the Ministry�s New Kingston Offices on January 16, Minister Hylton observed that the new government does not intend to grow the economy on one leg. He stated that although the services sector, was a major area of potential growth, he viewed manufacturing �as a key part of industry to attract investments, earn foreign exchange and generate employment.�

GOV�T TO CREATE MORE BUSINESS-FRIENDLY ENVIRONMENT

Tue, 31 Jan 2012 13:21:00 EST

Minister of Industry, Investment and Commerce, Hon. Anthony Hylton, said the Government is moving �post haste� to remove the bureaucratic constraints to business and entrepreneurship so that the economy can grow. �Part of our focus is to remove all stumbling blocks and hurdles that year in and year out, continue to frustrate businesses.�This Ministry aims to do certain things to assist businesses in Jamaica, chief of which is to remove a number of the bureaucratic elements.�We aim also, across a joined-up government approach, to drive business and to drive growth in the economy, creating those conditions for private investments to grow,� he stated. Mr. Hylton, who was speaking to members of the Montego Bay business community on Friday (January 20), during a tour of facilities in the Montego Bay Free Zone, said the Ministry is committed to its mandate to foster business development to create jobs.

Gov�t Committed to CARICOM/CARIFORUM Treaty Arrangements

Tue, 31 Jan 2012 12:30:00 EST

Minister of Industry, Investment and Commerce, Anthony Hylton, has signaled the Government�s commitment to ensuring that treaty arrangements signed with CARICOM achieve the balance and equity on which they were founded. The Minister, speaking at the launch of Expo Jamaica 2012 at the Wyndham Kingston Hotel on January 24th, declared that his Ministry will be initiating a sustained programme of �economic diplomacy� to interact with other countries in the region. He said the objective is to ensure that the benefits and burdens associated with regional trade are equitably shared by all nations in the region. �Ours will be a firm, collegiate overture to our trading partners�, stated the Minister. Citing the upcoming celebration of Jamaica�s 50th anniversary of independence, Minister Hylton noted: �Our focus as a people, in this pivotal Jubilee year must be on production and export � as does Jamaica Expo 2012. This focus on production and export is certainly a priority area for the administration I represent�.�

INDUSTRY MINISTER CALLS ON COJ TO ADDRESS ETHICS IN BUSINESS

Fri, 13 Jan 2012 16:53:00 EST

Minister of Industry, Investment and Commerce, Hon. Anthony Hylton, has charged the Companies Office of Jamaica (COJ) to move with dispatch to address �ethics in business� as a critical part of its role in promoting corporate governance among registered companies. The Minister made the call during a familiarisation tour of the New Kingston offices of the organization on January 12, 2011. In making the call, the Minister observed that Jamaica has a serious problem with corruption, �so the issue of business ethics must be addressed in order to improve the country�s business environment and the attraction of new investments, including foreign direct investments.�

UWI FOOD SAFETY COURSE CRITICAL - BUDHAN

Fri, 13 Jan 2012 15:37:00 EST

Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Industry, Investment and Commerce, Reginald Budhan, says food safety certification courses being offered by the University of the West Indies (UWI) is vital to the country meeting international requirements, particularly United States (US) regulations. �The US constitutes one of our most important export markets. This training programme is particularly critical to us at this time, as it will assist our agro-processors to be in conformity with US food safety regulations,� Mr. Budhan stated, as he addressed the opening ceremony for a �Better Process Control School� course on Monday, January 9, at the UWI�s Mona campus. Designed specifically for supervisory and managerial personnel in the food industry, food inspectors and other individuals involved in quality control, the food safety certification programme will provide instruction in 15 topics, which are examined for certification. It is part of the regulatory requirement in Jamaica and the US for food industry personnel.�

Permanent Secretary Urges Private Labs for Food Testing

Mon, 12 Dec 2011 18:58:00 EST

Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Industry, Investment and Commerce, Reginald Budhan, is urging operators of private sector laboratories, particularly those engaged in food testing, to get their facilities accredited. Mr. Budhan said that laboratories need to be accredited by the Jamaica National Agency for Accreditation (JANAAC), in order to safeguard Jamaica�s ability to export into the markets of large developed countries, like the United States. Speaking at the presentation of accreditation certification to Environmental Solutions Limited (ESL), at a luncheon hosted by JANAAC at the Mona Visitors Lodge and Conference Centre, University of the West Indies (UWI), Mona, on Thursday (December 8), Mr. Budhan said that Jamaica�s ability to export rests on the laboratories� competence in providing quality accreditation services for exporters.

Government to Make It Easier For Exporters to Conduct Business

Mon, 12 Dec 2011 17:48:00 EST

Exporters will soon find it easier and cheaper to conduct transactions with the relevant registration and approval agencies. Minister of Industry, Investment and Commerce, Dr. the Hon. Christopher Tufton, says he has given instruction for the Jamaica Promotions Corporation (JAMPRO) "to begin a phase of bringing the application and approval processes for these services online." The Minister, who was delivering the keynote address at the Jamaica Exporters� Association�s (JEA) 45th Annual General Meeting held on November 24 at the Knutsford Court Hotel in St. Andrew, said that businesses should be encouraged to utilise available technology to conduct vital transactions to speed up the process of doing business.

MEN URGED TO PLAY GREATER ROLE IN REDUCING HIV/AIDS

Mon, 12 Dec 2011 16:38:00 EST

Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Industry, Investment and Commerce, Reginald Budhan, is encouraging males to play a greater role in helping to minimise the spread of HIV/AIDS, given the vast majority of women infected with the disease. �In taking care of our women, the first responsibility is us (males) - use the necessary protection. The second responsibility is to stand by your woman; stick to one faithful partner. The third responsibility is to ensure there are no new infections. And, I want to balance that by encouraging our females - do the right thing,� he said. The Permanent Secretary was speaking at a World AIDS Day observance ceremony, held at the Ministry of Industry, Investment and Commerce, in Kingston on December 2, 2011.

Tufton Pushes Jamaica/Japan Cooperation

Mon, 12 Dec 2011 16:15:00 EST

Minister of Industry, Investment and Commerce, Dr. the Hon. Christopher Tufton, says there are numerous possibilities for significant expansion of trade and investment with Japan, as a result of a longstanding 40-year relationship with that country. Speaking at a special working luncheon hosted by JAMPRO for a visiting Japan-CARICOM Economic Mission to Jamaica, at the Terra Nova Hotel, Kingston on November 24, 2011, Dr. Tufton cited the development of Jamaica�s coffee industry as an example of the areas of cooperation between the two countries. �I say, without contradiction, that the development of our coffee industry has been largely due to the contribution of Japanese investors to that industry over the past 30 years, and it has benefitted the industry significantly, (as) 80 to 85 per cent of Blue Mountain coffee is shipped to Japan,� the Minister stated.

Jamaica lands major BPO investment

Mon, 12 Dec 2011 07:57:00 EST

Minister of Industry, Investment and Commerce, Dr. Christopher Tufton, has announced the planned US$20 million (J$1.7 billion) investment in Jamaica�s business process outsourcing (BPO) sector by the Convergys Corporation, one of the largest agent-assisted customer service companies in the world. Convergys will employ nearly 1,000 persons when its first call centre slated for Montego Bay becomes fully staffed in 2012. Speaking at a specially organised press briefing held at JAMPRO�s New Kingston head office today (December 7), Minister Tufton noted that the call centre, which represents the company�s initial foray into the Caribbean, is expected to be the first of several that will be established in the island. "Convergys is a quality investment for Jamaica...we are confident that it will offer Jamaicans new employment and career opportunities in an industry with a bright future in Jamaica," stated Minister Tufton.

US$20 MILLION FACILITY TO BENEFIT BPO INVESTORS

Thu, 01 Dec 2011 16:58:00 EST

Jamaica Promotions Corporation (JAMPRO) and the Development Bank of Jamaica Limited (DBJ) on November 24, 2011 signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) for a US$20 million loan facility, which will facilitate investment in the Information and Communications Technology (ICT) sector. The agreement, which was signed during a ceremony at the offices of the Ministry of Industry, Investment and Commerce in New Kingston, is intended to support the expansion of Business Process Outsourcing (BPO). The facility will be administered by the DBJ in collaboration with JAMPRO. Portfolio Minister, Dr. the Hon. Christopher Tufton, said the objective is to generate more employment by creating adequate space for the expansion of existing BPO businesses.

Special Unit to Focus on Improving Investment Climate

Thu, 01 Dec 2011 15:10:00 EST

A special unit is to be established within the offices of Jamaica Promotions Corporation (JAMPRO), which will focus exclusively on the critical variables pertaining to Jamaica in the Global Competitiveness Report and the Doing Business Report. Minister of Industry Investment and Commerce, Hon. Dr. Christopher Tufton, said the move is an attempt to �improve on those variables because we think it will add to lessening the bureaucracy� and attracting more local and foreign investment. �We cannot ignore the perceptions that others have of us because it is going to impact our investment climate and how people view us as an attractive destination,� the Minister stated on November 22, 2011 as he addressed the Private Sector Organization of Jamaica Chairman�s Club Forum at the Jamaica Pegasus hotel.

Standards Penalties to Be Increased

Thu, 01 Dec 2011 13:51:00 EST

An Act to amend the Standards Act was tabled on Tuesday (November 22) in the House of Representatives. The Bill, tabled by Minister of Industry Investment and Commerce, Dr. Christopher Tufton, seeks to impose more realistic penalties for offences under the Act. The proposed legislation also seeks to empower the minister to amend fines under the Act, by order subject to affirmative resolution, and to ensure a timely response to any further need to adjust monetary penalties.

MIIC Launches Fast Track Services in Montego Bay

Wed, 23 Nov 2011 14:29:00 EST

As part of its mandate to create a more friendly business environment, and to facilitate and provide greater access to export transactions in the western region, the Ministry of Industry, Investment and Commerce through its agencies, JAMPRO and the Companies office of Jamaica (COJ), has launched its Fast Track Services to the Montego Bay Business Community. The launch took place on Thursday, November 17, 2011 at the Wexford Hotel in Montego Bay. The concept of the fast track facility is to provide greater access, particularly to export transaction of select agencies in the network and the facilitation of a fleet of services, and a measure of convenience in doing several transactions from one location. Speaking at the launch, Minister of Industry, Investment and Commerce, Dr. the Hon. Christopher Tufton, says that there has to be greater co-ordination between the facilitators of entrepreneurial activities and entrepreneurs.

JBDC, MIIC and JMA Encourage Jamaicans to �Buy Jamaican This Christmas�

Wed, 23 Nov 2011 13:31:00 EST

The Jamaica Business Development Corporation (JBDC) and the Ministry of Industry, Investment and Commerce (MIIC) are joining forces with the Jamaica Manufacturers� Association (JMA) to promote a �Buy Jamaican This Christmas� campaign. The campaign will engage all aspects of media and will seek to excite and reignite Jamaicans to give a piece of Jamaica for Christmas to family, friends, and colleagues. �The message of buying quality Jamaican products also means ensuring the quality of life for Jamaican producers,� notes Valerie Veira, Chief Executive Officer of the JBDC.�She further noted that all stakeholders would be supporting each other for growth with this effort. To support the campaign, both the JMA and JBDC will stage events that will provide the opportunity for locals to see Jamaican products live and direct.�JMA recently hosted its �Buy Jamaican Road show and Motorcade on November 5 in targeted areas of Kingston and St. Andrew.�The road show began in Half-Way Tree with a motorcade to Cross Roads and culminated in Downtown Kingston with a grand finale and exhibition in the St. William Grants Park.�The event showcased the best of local members/manufacturers who are affiliated with the JMA as well as a number of micro and small producers.

TUFTON URGES GREATER COLLABORATION TO ENHANCE PACE OF ENTREPRENEURIAL ACTIVITIES

Wed, 23 Nov 2011 12:36:00 EST

Minister of Industry, Investment and Commerce, Dr. the Hon. Christopher Tufton, has challenged members of the business community to ensure that there is greater collaboration and partnerships between stakeholders within the sector, in an effort to enhance the pace of entrepreneurial activities. �We cannot afford as a country, to have �hold ups� in the implementation of entrepreneurial activities that are attributed to us who are supposed to be the facilitators of entrepreneurial projects. That�s the approach that we are taking.�We are taking the position as a country and as a government, that whatever will enhance or hasten the pace of entrepreneurial thinking and risk-taking, is what is good for the country. That�s what will create the jobs and that�s what will create the expanded economic activities,� Dr. Tufton said. He was addressing members of the business community at the Ministry�s official launch of �Fast Track Services� held at the Wexford Court Hotel on November 17, 2011.

JBDC Launches Website to Showcase Local Brands Abroad

Wed, 23 Nov 2011 12:08:00 EST

The Jamaica Business Development Corporation (JBDC) is expanding its reach into retail, with the launch of its e-commerce website, which will sell products marketed under Things Jamaican, as well as the scheduled opening of a sixth store in Negril. At the same time, JBDC's financial services unit plans to upfront money to Micro, Small and Medium-sized Enterprises (MSMEs), which qualify for a new grant-funding initiative being facilitated by the Caribbean Export Development Agency (CEDA). The funds, which are being provided through the agency's Direct Assistance Scheme, ranges from 5,000 ($582,300) to 30,000 euros ($3.5 million) and are accessible to businesses involved in alternative energy, agriculture, agro-processing, the creative industries, health and wellness, information and communication technology, manufacturing, professional services and tourism.

Government Halts Export of Scrap Metals

Fri, 04 Nov 2011 12:53:00 EST

The Ministry of Industry, Investment and Commerce, has halted all exports of scrap metal from Jamaica, until the issue of breaches of an earlier suspension are cleared up. Minister of Industry, Investment and Commerce, Hon. Dr. Christopher Tufton, said that the decision follows the breach of a Cabinet Order stipulating that companies eligible to export scrap metal must receive a permit from the Trade Board. �I had asked yesterday (October 31, 2011) for a suspension of any export until the matter is properly cleared up, and we do not expect it to take long to clear up this matter,� he said. Dr. Tufton, who was speaking at a press conference at his Ministry on Tuesday (November 1), said queries with the Jamaica Customs Department have revealed that eight entities has been exporting scrap metal following the band on scrap metal exports by the Government.

Members of MSME Alliance Get Help

Fri, 04 Nov 2011 11:54:00 EST

Government�s thrust to help small businesses ramp up their operational standards and output, has been further advanced with the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between the Bureau of Standards Jamaica (BSJ), and the Micro Small and Medium Enterprises (MSME) Alliance. The MoU, which was signed on November 1, 2011 at the Ministry of Industry, Investment and Commerce which has oversight for the BSJ, will provide technical assistance to members of the MSME Alliance�s 30 associations, enabling them to implement quality systems. The programme is being implemented over three years, at the end of which it is expected that each entity will be enabled to implement quality systems in their operations, or show significant improvement in instances where such systems were already in place. In his address, Minister of Industry, Investment and Commerce, Dr. the Hon. Christopher Tufton, said the MoU is an important step forward because of the importance of MSMEs to the economy, noting that the agreement forms part of the larger initiative being implemented under the Ministry�s MSME policy.

Budhan Stresses Govt�s Commitment to Entrepreneurship

Fri, 04 Nov 2011 11:09:00 EST

Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Industry, Investment and Commerce, Reginald Budhan, is reiterating Government�s commitment to promoting entrepreneurship to foster job creation and stimulate economic growth. �Entrepreneurship is an important factor in our economic development and this is reflected in our efforts to improve opportunities for micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs),� Mr. Budhan stated. He was speaking on October 25, 2011 at the launch of National Entrepreneurship Week 2011 at the Wyndham Kingston Hotel. The week, an annual observance of the Young Entrepreneurs Association of Jamaica (YEA), will be celebrated from November 20 to 25 under the theme: �Making your passion your business�. Mr. Budhan lauded the work of YEA, noting that the organisation is playing an important role in promoting youth entrepreneurship in Jamaica.

Tufton Says FSMA Will Boost Quality of Exports

Fri, 04 Nov 2011 09:41:00 EST

Minister of Industry, Investment and Commerce, Dr.�the Hon. Christopher Tufton, has said that local exporters should become compliant with the new regulations under the United States� (US) Food Safety Modernization Act (FSMA), to enhance the quality and competitiveness of their products. �It is an opportunity for you to become more competitive, to boost your firm�s level of operation to internationally recognised benchmarked standards, that provide for you an opportunity to compete in a marketplace that is constantly changing,� he said. Dr. Tufton was speaking at Jamaica Promotions Corporation�s (JAMPRO�s) interactive exporter forum, at the Terra Nova Hotel in Kingston, on Tuesday (October 25). The forum focused on the FSMA, which was signed into law by U.S. President Barack Obama in January, and its implications for Jamaica�s export sector.

Business Clinic and Mini Exposition

Fri, 30 Sep 2011 15:12:00 EST

The Ministry of Industry, Investment and Commerce, in collaboration with the Jamaica Manufacturers Association (JMA), has launched a series of business clinics and expositions to promote the growth and development of the small business sector, and to encourage public support for locally-made products through the JMA�s �Buy Jamaican � Build Jamaica� campaign. The first in the series, held on September 24 in St. Thomas, saw participation by some 40 companies including JMA members, credit union, Ministry agencies and a number of small and micro-businesses engaged in the production of goods such as paving stones, ackee wines, sauces, coconut sweets, spices, tinned ackee, baked products, glues and kitchen cupboards. A business clinic held by the JBDC offered participants information on product development; maintaining viable businesses; resources available to entrepreneurs, and the regulatory framework within which the MSME sector operates.

J�CAN COMPANIES MUST BENCHMARK AGAINST WORLD-CLASS STANDARDS

Fri, 30 Sep 2011 14:42:00 EST

Minister of Industry, Investment and Commerce, Dr. Christopher Tufton is challenging Jamaican businesses to urgently take the necessary steps towards standardization and certification, as well as implementation of appropriate systems to create superior products that can compete against the best in the world. Speaking following a recent tour of Brandram-Henderson (B-H) Paints� production facilities, Bell Road, Kingston, Dr. Tufton observed that many companies are not proactive in benchmarking their processes against world-class standards in the misinformed belief that because Jamaica is still termed a �developing country,� consumers are not as sophisticated as in the developed world. �This is a mistake we need to rid ourselves of,� declared the Industry Minister. He urged Jamaican entrepreneurs and investors to position themselves against the best in the world by standardizing and investing in people and infrastructure, while accessing market intelligence to produce superior goods and services.

JIPO LOOKING TO PROTECT BLUE MOUNTAIN COFFEE, JERK, RUM

Mon, 26 Sep 2011 09:56:00 EST

The Jamaica Intellectual Property Office (JIPO) is moving to provide Geographical Indications (GIs) protection for authentic Jamaican brands such as Blue Mountain Coffee, Jamaica Jerk, and Jamaica Rum. Executive Director, JIPO, Carol Simpson, said the move would pave the way for registration of these products in other parts of the world, such as within the European Union. She was addressing a meeting�on September 21, 2011 at the Jamaica Promotions Corporation (JAMPRO) headquarters in New Kingston, to inform local producers about GIs as a strategy to protect their products against international �copycats�.

ENGINEERS PLAY CRITICAL ROLE IN BUSINESS SUSTAINABILITY

Mon, 26 Sep 2011 09:45:00 EST

Minister of Industry, Investment and Commerce, Dr. Christopher Tufton has urged the engineering fraternity to be proactive in identifying opportunities to make Jamaica more competitive, pointing to the critical role played by engineers in designing and building the infrastructure vital to national growth and development. Delivering the main address at the ceremony to mark the launch of Engineers� Week 2011, Minister Tufton noted that �one of the biggest challenges the Jamaican economy faces, is the extent to which we are competitive, derived from the degree to which we are productive.� In this regard, he said, there were opportunities at the level of business firms where engineering input into the re-tooling and production processes could promote greater efficiency, create greater value, and enable these businesses to become more competitive locally, regionally and internationally.

COMMERCE MINISTRY COMMENDS GSB ON 9.58 MORTGAGE RATE

Mon, 26 Sep 2011 09:36:00 EST

The Ministry of Industry, Investment and Commerce has commended the GSB Cooperative Credit Union Limited on the introduction of its 9.58% mortgage rate. According to the Minister of Industry, Investment & Commerce, Dr. the Hon. Christopher Tufton, �this is a bold step forward and we really want to commend GSB for their foresight and leadership in this regard�. GSB recently announced a further reduction in its mortgage rate from 11.95% in March, down to 9.58% in September this year. The new rate applies to mortgages of J$2.5 million to J$15 million, repayable over 35 years.

INDUSTRY MINISTRY MOVES TO PROTECT JAMAICAN RUM

Fri, 16 Sep 2011 17:55:00 EST

The Ministry of Industry, Investment and Commerce, through the Jamaica Intellectual Property Office (JIPO) is now moving aggressively towards the securing of brand Jamaica in the area of rum. This was announced by Minister of Industry, Investment and Commerce, Dr. the Hon. Christopher Tufton, following a tour of the Wray & Nephew plant on Spanish Town Road. According to Dr. Tufton, the Ministry will be working with the industry, particularly companies like Wray and Nephew to rebrand the term �Jamaica Rum� and, therefore, give it the local and international intellectual property protection where only rum produced in Jamaica can be labeled �Jamaica Rum�.�

Budhan Says SMEs Critical In Tackling Global Crisis

Fri, 16 Sep 2011 17:18:00 EST

Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Industry, Investment and Commerce, Reginald Budhan, says the Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) are crucial in tackling aspects of the global economic downturn. "The SME sector plays a vital role in employment creation and income generation and is, therefore, critical for achieving sustainable growth in any country," Mr. Budhan declared. He was speaking at the opening session of the 2011 Conference of the Small and Medium Enterprise (SME), organized by the Association of Chartered Certified Accountants (ACCA) in collaboration with the Jamaica Business Development Corporation (JBDC) on Friday (September 9) at the Wyndham Hotel, in Kingston.

Tufton Offers Furniture Makers Government Support

Wed, 14 Sep 2011 11:40:00 EST

Minister of Industry, Investment and Commerce, Hon. Dr. Christopher Tufton, has assured wood furniture manufacturers that he will seek to increase export of their products, to drive development of the sector, and expand employment. "We have exported approximately US$170, 000 worth of wooden furniture over the last year and, at the same time, we imported approximately US$17 million. That�s a huge gap. I am not convinced that we need to import so much, and I am pretty convinced that we can export a lot more,� he stated. Dr. Tufton was speaking at the Furniture Jamaica Stakeholders' Dialogue Programme, at the Jamaica Business Development Corporation (JBDC), Marcus Garvey Drive, Kingston on Wednesday September 7.

Richard Branson Opens Business Centre in Montego Bay

Wed, 14 Sep 2011 11:23:00 EST

Jamaica's efforts to create more jobs for its citizens got a major boost on Thursday September 8, with the official opening of the Sir Richard Branson Centre of Entrepreneurship, in Bogue, Montego Bay, which is committed to growing businesses in the Caribbean. The centre, established by British billionaire, Sir Richard Branson, at a cost of some US$3.5 million, is operated by Virgin Unite, the non-profit arm of his Virgin Group, and Virgin Holidays, and is also supported by independent benefactors, including Chris Blackwell, founder of Island Records. The Branson Centre, which is equipped with the latest computer technology, opened its doors to its first 14 budding entrepreneurs on Thursday September 8, making a commitment to support their drive for success in business. It will provide them with a launch pad for their businesses, and create a platform for job creation across the Caribbean.

Food Exporters Urged to Get Certified

Fri, 09 Sep 2011 17:23:00 EST

Minister of Industry, Investment and Commerce, Hon. Dr. Christopher Tufton, is urging companies exporting food into the international market to get certified. He said that the United States (US) has given notice, through legislation passed earlier this year that food exporters must be certified to international standards for their goods to be allowed into the country. The Minister was speaking to the press on September 1 after a tour of the Pickapeppa factory in Shooter�s Hill, Manchester.

Govt Provides Special Loan for Food Exporters to Upgrade Operations

Fri, 09 Sep 2011 16:43:00 EST

Government is offering food exporters a special loan of $100 million and�general assistance, to bring their operations up to standard to meet the new United States (US) Food and Drug Administration (FDA) requirements, which take effect in January, 2012. Making the announcement at a press conference at the Ministry, in New Kingston, on September 6, Minister of Industry, Investment and Commerce, Dr. the Hon. Christopher Tufton said the support is critical, as firms that are not compliant with the new Food Safety Modernisation Act, which was outlined by United States President, Barack Obama, in January of this year, could be denied access to that market. This, the Minister said, could result in serious fall-out for food exports, as the legislation holds significant implications for Jamaican exporters of food and other products to the US market. Affected entities include those that produce, handle, transport, import, export and distribute food to the US.

Increase in Textbooks below Inflation Rate

Fri, 09 Sep 2011 15:57:00 EST

The Consumer Affairs Commission (CAC) is reporting that this year, textbook prices have increased by an average of five per cent over July 2010, remaining below the inflation rate of 7.2 per cent. This represents a one per cent improvement over the similar period for 2009-2010, and four per cent over the previous period (2008-2009). Speaking at a joint press briefing with Minister of Education, Hon. Andrew Holness on August 22, Minister of Industry, Investment and Commerce, Hon. Dr. Christopher Tufton pointed out that from the parents� perspective, this is positive. �Hopefully, they will see some savings in procuring texts for this academic year,� the Minister said.

Strategic Goal of Government is to Stimulate Job Creation

Fri, 26 Aug 2011 16:48:00 EST

Minister of Industry, Investment and Commerce, Hon. Dr. Christopher Tufton, says the strategic goal of the government is to not only facilitate economic growth and development, but to stimulate job creation. �My challenge, having been appointed in this capacity, is to facilitate as much as possible the creation of economic activity, and in particular, I would like at the end of my tenure to say that we were able to stimulate jobs,� the Minister said. He was speaking at a �Meet the Ministers� Series, an event organised by Strategic Corporate Interventions Limited, in partnership with Samuda and Johnson, attorneys-at-Law, held at the Knutsford Court Hotel in New Kingston on August 24, 2011.

JAMPRO Hosts Reception for Investors

Fri, 26 Aug 2011 15:40:00 EST

The London office of the country's investment promotions agency, JAMPRO, hosted investors and potential investors in Jamaica at a pre- Independence reception, held at the Jamaican High Commission in London, on July 27. Regional Manager of JAMPRO in the United Kingdom and Europe, Laurence Jones, told JIS News that guests at the reception represented a broad range of potential investments under consideration.� He pointed out that interest was shown in areas, such as mining and energy; food processing and export; chemical manufacturing and distribution; music and film as well as business process outsourcing. Mr. Jones described business process outsourcing as one of the fastest growth areas which now represents more than US$300 million in annual revenues and has recorded 13 per cent growth each year.

Small Developing States Need to Establish Food Standards

Fri, 26 Aug 2011 14:44:00 EST

Industry, Investment and Commerce Minister, Hon. Dr. Christopher Tufton, has emphasised the need for small island developing nations, such as Jamaica, to establish standards, particularly in relation to food, to ensure their competitiveness in the global marketplace, as well as to safeguard the health and safety of consumers locally and overseas. Speaking at a welcome reception for delegates participating in a three-day Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO)/Bureau of Standards Jamaica (BSJ) CODEX workshop, at the Jamaica Pegasus Hotel, New Kingston, on August 23, Dr. Tufton cited challenges which small developing countries and, in some cases, their larger counterparts encounter in efforts to integrate their economies into the wider network of external markets. He pointed out that, increasingly, the wider marketplace is becoming networked and interlinked, requiring rules, as opposed to convention, to determine how competitive territories, such as Jamaica, are and how they can be advantageously positioned within the global context. Further, that the global marketplace is currently adopting a �very holistic approach�, in looking at the broader value chain.

Government to Unveil Plan to Expand ICT Sector and Increase Employment

Fri, 19 Aug 2011 16:05:00 EST

The Government will, over the next few weeks, unveil a five-point plan aimed at expanding Jamaica�s information and communications technology (ICT)/business process outsourcing (BPO) sector, Industry, Investment and Commerce Minister, Hon. Dr. Christopher Tufton, has announced. This, he says, is with a view to doubling the number of jobs the sector currently provides, as well as enhancing the industry�s global competitiveness. Speaking at a media briefing at JAMPRO, in New Kingston, on August 4, Dr. Tufton said that the US$145 million local BPO industry accounts for six per cent of the Caribbean and Latin American market, which is valued US$2.5 billion. The Minister said the local sector, which comprises approximately 26 firms, accounts for nearly 11,000 full time jobs. He noted that analysts conservatively estimate that Jamaica�s ICT/BPO sector must grow at a compounded rate of between 20 and 21 per cent per annum over the next four to five years, in order to remain competitive regionally.

Laws Dealing with Cyber Crimes Need to Be Amended - Dr. Tufton

Fri, 19 Aug 2011 15:41:00 EST

Industry, Investment and Commerce Minister, Hon. Dr. Christopher Tufton, says aspects of the laws dealing with cyber crimes may need to be amended, in order to effectively address the incidence of this illicit activity in the information and communications technology (ICT)/business process outsourcing (BPO) sector. Speaking at a media briefing at the New Kingston offices of the investment promotion agency, JAMPRO, on August 4, to announce the Government�s plans for expansion in the ICT sector, Dr. Tufton noted that the incidence of cyber crimes in the industry is an �issue,� and cited the impact which illicit activities, such as the lottery scam, have had on Jamaicans.� �It has emerged as part of the risk assessment for any investor looking to come in (to invest in the local ICT sector), particularly in certain segments of the client base. In areas of banking and finance, for example, it�s riskier,� he said.

Dr. Tufton Tours Montego Bay Free Zone

Tue, 02 Aug 2011 13:45:00 EST

Minister of Industry, Investment and Commerce, Dr. Christopher Tufton, headed a JAMPRO-facilitated tour of business process outsourcing (BPO) facilities in the Montego Bay Free Zone, Thursday July 21, 2011.

During the tour he held discussions with key players in the industry, with the objective of ‘fast tracking’ the growth and development of the information and communications technology (ICT) sector. The tour formed part of Government’s commitment to strengthening Jamaica’s position, as the leading near shore contact centre destination in the English-speaking Caribbean.

BPO operations currently account for approximately 11,000 jobs in the ICT sector, across 26 local and international companies. The government, through JAMPRO, is examining several strategies and initiatives towards maximizing Jamaica’s potential in the BPO sector and creating more ICT related jobs.

“We feel that with some effort in creating additional capacity and space, and also showing to investors abroad the advantages of investing in Jamaica … we could more than double the capacity, as it relates to the number of investors and the number of jobs that can be created within a relatively short space of time,” Dr. Tufton told JIS News after the tour.

Minister Tufton Says More Needed to Expand Manufacturing

Tue, 02 Aug 2011 12:46:00 EST

"It's a challenge because manufacturing, over the years, has not benefited from a macroeconomic environment conducive to its development and, indeed, to its expansion," Dr. Tufton said.

The Minister was speaking at the launch of the World Investment Report 2011, at Jamaica Promotions Corporation's (JAMPRO) head office, New Kingston, on Tuesday (July 26).

He said that the Government remains committed to the expansion of manufacturing, despite the challenges, and has worked hard to set the stage for sustained expansion.

The Government has done a fairly good job in working with the private sector to achieve a level of containment, in terms of the critical macroeconomic variables that could form the basis for economic advancement and economic expansion, he said.

JAMPRO Head says FDI Prospects Positive

Tue, 02 Aug 2011 12:44:00 EST

President of Jamaica Promotions Corporation (JAMPRO), Sancia Bennett-Templer, has said that Jamaica's prospects for increased Foreign Direct Investments (FDIs) are positive.

She noted that while Jamaica, like most Small Island Developing States (SIDS), has been adversely affected by the global financial crisis, which has reduced FDIs flows, there has been a resurgence of interest in a number of sectors, including tourism, mining, and information communications technology (ICT).

The JAMPRO President, who was addressing the launch of the World Investment Report 2011 on July 26 at her New Kingston offices, said that plans were well advanced for the establishment of an international services sector in Jamaica, as well as the restart of bauxite mining.

Total Ban on Scrap Metal Trade

Wed, 27 Jul 2011 12:13:00 EST

The export of scrap metal has been banned totally, Minister of Industry, Investment and Commerce, Hon. Dr. Christopher Tufton, has announced. Making the disclosure at a press conference at the Ministry, in New Kingston,�on July 26 the Minister said Cabinet took the decision to effect the ban at its meeting on July 25, which comes against the background of the widespread pillaging of metal over the past three years, particularly in the last few months, as well as failure by industry stakeholders, despite warnings, to implement measures to help to curb metal theft. �Noting the correlation between increased demand, high metal prices and the rise in metal theft, Cabinet said it was forced to take the drastic action of imposing the total ban in the national interest, and in order to curb the wanton theft and destruction of valuable property owned and used by legitimate operators,��the Minister said. He pointed out that the theft of scrap metal has cost government and the private sector more than $1 billion over the past few years, noting that the latest upsurge in the theft of valuable infrastructure, including train lines and�heritage items, and the disturbance of graves has led to renewed calls for further government intervention to solve the problem.

Statement on the Scrap Metal Trade

Tue, 26 Jul 2011 18:20:00 EST

Cabinet has taken a decision to place a ban on the Scrap Metal Trade. The Cabinet decision comes against the background of the widespread pillaging of metal over the past three years, and particularly in the last few months; as well as failure by the scrap metal trade, despite warnings, to implement sufficient measures to curb metal theft. Noting the correlation between increased demand, high metal prices and the rise in metal theft, Cabinet said it was forced to take the drastic action of imposing the ban in the national interest, and, in order to curb the wanton theft and destruction of valuable property. Scrap metal theft has cost government and the private sector more than $1-billion over the past three years. The latest upsurge in the theft of valuable infrastructure, including train lines, heritage items and graves has led to renewed calls for further government intervention to solve the problem.

Industry Ministry to Outline Way Forward for Scrap Metal

Wed, 20 Jul 2011 19:21:00 EST

The Ministry of Industry, Investment and Commerce is to prepare a Cabinet submission to outline the way forward for the scrap metal industry, following the temporary shutdown of the trade. Minister of Industry, Investment and Commerce, Dr. Christopher Tufton, at a press briefing held today (July 19, 2011) at the Ministry in New Kingston, said that the submission will be presented to the Cabinet on Monday, July 25. The Minister has given instructions that all exporters of scrap metal with inventories on hand must collect their containers from the ports by the latest, Friday, July 22, 2011. These must be packed and returned to the port by July 29. Thereafter, no new scrap metal will be accepted at the port for export. Dr. Tufton told the briefing that currently, there are too many players in the industry and this is contributing to the problems they are now having with the trade.

Minister Tufton to Address Movers and Shakers in South Florida

Wed, 20 Jul 2011 19:00:00 EST

Minister of Industry, Investment and Commerce, Hon. Dr. Christopher Tufton, will be guest speaker at the second quarterly �Movers and Shakers� breakfast meeting of the Jamaica USA Chamber of Commerce (JAUSACC), slated for July 28 in Florida. The Minister is expected to address the audience, gathered at Jungle Island in Miami, on developments and investment opportunities in Jamaica�s agricultural sector, with a focus on agri-business. The breakfast meeting, which is being held in conjunction with the Consulate General of Miami, provides yet another opportunity to create linkages between the business communities in Jamaica and South Florida. Information will also be provided on investment prospects in the area.

Let�s Partner for more Aggressive Investment Strategy � Tufton tells Private Sector

Mon, 18 Jul 2011 13:47:00 EST

Minister of Industry, Investment and Commerce (MIIC), Dr. Chris Tufton, says Government and the Private sector must work even closer in the months ahead to convert investment ideas into business realities through a more aggressive investment strategy, where job creation is the priority. Speaking at the Rotary Club of Santa Cruz on the weekend the Minister with responsibility for investment said this was critical as the real gains of the Debt Exchange programme and more recent positive macroeconomic indicators such as lower interest rates and stable currency will only be appreciated when it enables business expansion and creates jobs for Jamaicans. The Minister noted further, that while the creation of jobs is clearly in the Government�s interests, it was also necessary for the private sector�s profitability and business sustainability, hence the need for partnership.

Cabinet to Study Scrap Metal Proposals

Fri, 15 Jul 2011 15:37:00 EST

Consequent on the recent upsurge in the theft of valuable metal infrastructure, Minister of Industry, Investment and Commerce Dr. Christopher Tufton will shortly be submitting proposals to Cabinet to effect wide-ranging changes in the operation of the scrap metal trade.� The new proposals, based on research of best practices in other jurisdictions, and consultations with the Police, Customs Department, the Scrap Metal Federation, utility companies and state agencies, will see greater government involvement in the oversight of the trade.� At a meeting last Thursday (July 7) with scrap metal dealers, Minister Tufton noted the measures already taken to regulate and manage the industry so that it would not undermine and compromise other businesses. He warned scrap metal dealers that if the theft of metal continues, Government would have no choice but to be actively involved in controlling the industry, or to shut it down completely.

MIIC Intensifies Push for Accreditation and ISO Certification

Fri, 17 Jun 2011 16:33:00 EST

Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Industry, Investment and Commerce (MIIC), Reginald Budhan, says the Ministry has intensified its programme to get laboratories accredited, and business stakeholders certified with the International Standards Organization (ISO). This is to ensure that products being exported meet the stipulated standards of the countries for which they are intended, Mr. Budhan said. He was speaking at a stakeholders� breakfast marking World Accreditation Day, June 9, under the theme: �Accreditation, Supporting the Work of Regulators�, hosted by the Jamaica National Agency for Accreditation (JANAAC) at the Terra Nova Hotel, Kingston. The move is expected to complement initiatives the Government has already undertaken, including establishing an independent national accreditation body to meet the requirements of other countries, and a national certification body to certify companies in key ISO standards. Mr. Budhan noted that the United States has passed two legislations - the Consumer Product Safety Improvement Act (2008), to regulate all consumer products entering that country; and the Food Safety Modernization Act, which aims to strengthen its food safety system, with emphasis on preventing food-borne illnesses.

Export Sector to Pay More Attention to Accreditation

Fri, 17 Jun 2011 15:58:00 EST

Jamaica joined the international community in the observance of World Accreditation Day on June 9, even as the country�s nearly US$1.5 billion export sector is being challenged by increased emphasis on strict adherence to internationally recognised and accepted standards and a sharpened focus on the integrity of accreditation.� This year�s theme for Accreditation Day was: �Accreditation, supporting the work of Regulators�. To commemorate World Accreditation Day 2011, Jamaica National Agency for Accreditation (JANAAC), hosted a Stakeholders� Breakfast Meeting at the Terra Nova Hotel in Kingston. Addressing the meeting, Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Industry, Investment and Commerce, Reginald Budhan emphasised the importance of the US Food Safety Modernisation Act and advised stakeholders in the local export trade to recognise and appreciate its implications. �This Act is intended to institute critical steps towards strengthening the US food safety system, and places greater emphasis on preventing food-borne illnesses. This law was promulgated to protect the US consumers from potential hazards from the farm to the fork that could pose a health and safety risk.�Consequently, the law requires that a programme for testing of foods by accredited Labs be implemented within two years,� he explained.�

Produce Quality Goods for Export - Minister Samuda

Fri, 17 Jun 2011 15:30:00 EST

Minister of Industry, Investment and Commerce, Hon. Karl Samuda, is imploring players in the export and productive sectors to ensure that goods destined for the international market are of the highest quality in order to be competitive. �We have to be competitive so that our prices are razor sharp, and quality and quantity must be consistent,� he said, while addressing the launch of National Exporters� Month 2011 on June 6, at the Wyndham hotel in New Kingston. The Minister said for Jamaican products to maintain their competitive edge, the brand established should be flawless, internationally consistent and easily recognised. �When we say �we are the brand�, let us make sure that we respect those words and we give credence to them by training our workers, by introducing into our processes, appropriate and applicable technology�, lets innovate�, and development must be an integral part of everything we do when we talk about exports,� he stated.

IT Project Launched To Assist SMEs

Tue, 14 Jun 2011 11:39:00 EST

A project to enhance the competitiveness of Small and Medium sized Enterprises (SMEs), by increasing their access to Information Technology (IT) service, was launched on June 1, at the offices of Jamaica Promotions Corporation (JAMPRO), in New Kingston. Called the Centralised Information Technology System Project, the initiative is funded by the Ministry of Industry, Investment and Commerce and the Inter-American Development Bank (IDB). In his address, Minister of State in the Ministry of Industry, Investment and Commerce, Hon. Michael Stern, encouraged the Small Business Association of Jamaica (SBAJ) to continue to improve productivity, through the appropriate use of technology. He also urged the SMEs to work with the SBAJ to implement the Centralised Information Technology System for their businesses.

Jampro Launches "Export MAX"

Tue, 14 Jun 2011 11:14:00 EST

A programme to enable local exporters to take advantage of market opportunities and increase export earnings was launched at the Wyndham Kingston Hotel, New Kingston, on June 7. �Export Max: Enterprise Development Programme for Exporters� will focus on the development of a cluster of export-ready clients, as opposed to the strategy of broad engagement and support for all exporters. It will target an initial group of 15 Jamaican exporters and export ready firms within priority sectors under the National Export Strategy (NES) with strong potential but which lack the required resources to take full advantage of the export market. The priority areas are: agro processing; aquaculture; furniture; coffee; fashion; mineral and mining; ICT; entertainment; and education. Speaking at the launch, Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Industry, Investment and Commerce, Reginald Budhan, lauded the initiative adding that, at least, 10 per cent of the group will be new exporters.

JAMPRO Says Foreign Direct Investments Re-emerging

Tue, 14 Jun 2011 10:51:00 EST

President of JAMPRO, Sancia Bennett-Templer, says the agency will be working to formulate a major investment strategy to take advantage of emerging investment opportunities. The JAMPRO head said international trends have shown that foreign direct investments (FDIs) are poised for recovery. She said the agency is working to ensure that the country can take advantage of these prospects. Speaking at JAMPRO�s �Invest in Jamaica: Kingston Forum� at the Terra Nova Hotel, Kingston on Thursday, June 2, Mrs. Bennett-Templer disclosed that JAMPRO will be working with the Inter-American Development Bank (IDB), and other international experts, to formulate a plan. A former employee of the Ireland Development Agency has been identified as a consultant, to work along with JAMPRO on the project.

August Ground Breaking for Caymanas Economic Zone

Tue, 14 Jun 2011 10:27:00 EST

Minister of Industry, Investment and Commerce, Hon. Karl Samuda says the Government will be breaking ground to start the first phase of the infrastructural development of the Caymanas Economic Zone, in St. Catherine, as early as August. He pointed out that the Factories Corporation of Jamaica has purchased some 200 acres of land, previously owned by the Urban Development Corporation (UDC), for the development of the first phase of the industrial complex. Mr. Samuda was addressing local investors at the Jamaica Promotions�Corporation (JAMPRO) �Invest in Jamaica�,�Kingston Forum, held at the Terra Nova Hotel in Kingston, June 2, 2011.

Samuda calls for strengthening of Public/Private Sector Partnership

Fri, 03 Jun 2011 10:55:00 EST

Minister of Industry, Investment and Commerce Karl Samuda has called for a strengthening of the partnership between Government and the private sector whereby incentives to manufacturers will be met with greater commitment to increase production through the application of new technologies in order to be more competitive and to boost exports. Speaking during a tour of Red Stripe�s production facility, Spanish Town Road on Friday, May 27th, Minister Samuda said that while Government is accountable based on the incentives it provides; the private sector is equally accountable to demonstrate that these incentives are being applied in a tangible way to improve production, generate growth and drive development.

Samuda Condemns Blocking of Local Cement Shipment by Dom Rep

Fri, 27 May 2011 16:41:00 EST

Minister of Industry, Investment and Commerce, Hon. Karl Samuda, wants the Dominican Republic to take immediate action to allow a shipment of 250,000 tonnes of cement from the Caribbean Cement Company Limited�s (CCCL) Rockfort plant to be unloaded. "We expect the Dominican authorities to use their good offices to have this product cleared, no later than the next 24 to 48 hours, so that they (CCCL and the Dominican importer) can get on with the business of trading," Mr. Samuda told an emergency press briefing at his Ministry, New Kingston, on May 13. He explained that since the US$250,000 worth of cement was shipped, over two weeks ago, the delay in unloading the shipment in the Dominican Republic has resulted in some US$50,000 in losses for the CCCL, inclusive of demurrage charges.

Collective Approach Needed to Tackle Dumping in Region

Fri, 27 May 2011 16:09:00 EST

Minister of Industry, Investment and Commerce, Hon. Karl Samuda has argued that more needs to be done collectively among member states of CARICOM, to formulate a co-ordinated approach to tackle the trade issues of dumping and subsidised imports within the region. �We must harmonise our approach, harmonise legislation, so we can ensure that whatever we do in one member state applies to all member states,� he emphasised. The Minister was speaking at a meeting and training session on Policy, Legislative and Administrative Arrangements, relating to Dumped and Subsidised Goods and Imports for CARICOM�states, at the Jamaica Pegasus Hotel in New Kingston on May 9.

LICENCE NOW REQUIRED TO IMPORT CEMENT

Fri, 27 May 2011 15:44:00 EST

Importers of cement are now required to obtain a licence to bring the product into the island. Minister of Industry, Investment and Commerce Karl Samuda signed an Order on May 16 prohibiting the importation of ordinary Portland Grey Cement except �in accordance with the authority of a licence granted by the Minister under Section 11 of the Trade Act.� Signing of the Order follows an assurance by Minister Samuda to use the authority vested in his office to safeguard the interest of Jamaican producers who legitimately want to trade with other countries.

Stern Welcomes �I am the Change� Entrepreneurial Programme

Mon, 09 May 2011 12:31:00 EST

State Minister for Industry, Investment and Commerce, Hon. Michael Stern, has welcomed the �I am the Change� programme stating that it will help to develop an entrepreneurial culture among the nation�s youth. The initiative, which was launched on April 20 at the Jamaica Promotions Corporation (JAMPRO) offices in New Kingston, is aimed at empowering and preparing selected secondary level students to enter the workforce as initiators of their own businesses. Mr. Stern said that the programme can make a significant impact in facilitating the growth and development of new and existing micro, small, and medium sized enterprises (SMEs). He noted that entrepreneurship is critical to the development and well-being of the society as entrepreneurs are job creators and innovators, who, by introducing competition, contribute indirectly to the country�s productivity,� he noted. It is for this reason, he said, that the Government has been placing increased focus on nurturing the entrepreneurial spirit of individuals, with 17 entrepreneurial centres established over the past three years, to guide young business initiators.

Permanent Secretary Urges Small Business Mergers

Mon, 09 May 2011 12:13:00 EST

Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Industry, Investment and Commerce, Reginald Budhan, has suggested the merging of some small businesses, to improve their competitiveness and efficiency. He said that this level of co-operation would greatly assist small business owners, who may be finding it difficult to survive on their own. �Maybe if we start co-operating and, rather than having a proliferation of more small uneconomic businesses, we could have businesses finding common grounds to merge; even if you don�t want to give up your autonomy, (you could) share accounting services,� he posited. Mr. Budhan was speaking recently at a Business Mingle, organised by the Small Business Association of Jamaica (SBAJ), at the Courtleigh Hotel and Suites, New Kingston.

Transforming Young Minds Should Start in the Home - Budhan

Mon, 09 May 2011 11:40:00 EST

The process of transforming young minds and instilling in them, positive values and attitudes, which would steer them from a life of crime, should start in the home, says Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Industry, Investment and Commerce, Reginald Budhan. He said that a lot of the interpersonal conflicts, which lead to crime and violence, can be resolved through rationale thinking and communication in the home. �We have far too many interpersonal conflicts in Jamaica and I attribute that to the poor level of socialisation from homes and sometimes in the school system. I think if we were trained at home properly, a lot of the interpersonal conflicts that we experience, which sometimes translate themselves into crime and violence can be avoided,� he said. He was speaking on April 29 at the 5th Caribbean Conference on Dispute Resolution at the Jamaica Conference Centre, downtown Kingston. The two-day event, organised by the Dispute Resolution Foundation (DRF) was held under the theme: �Encouraging a Culture of Justice and Peace through Conflict Resolution: Strengthening Your Role�.

Edna Manley's "The Trees Are Joyful" Returned

Wed, 20 Apr 2011 17:44:00 EST

Minister of Industry, Investment and Commerce, Hon. Karl Samuda, on April 19 presented an elated Minister of Youth, Sports and Culture, Hon. Olivia Grange, with the Edna Manley piece, �The Trees Are Joyful�, which was recovered and turned in to his Ministry on April 18. The prized sculpture was stolen from Unity House in Runaway Bay, St. Ann, last week. Mr. Samuda said that after speaking with leaders in the scrap metal industry, and impressing upon them the historical and cultural importance of the work, the bronze statue was tracked down. �I used every ounce of effort and influence I had among the leadership of the industry, and I said to them, I want this statue back�I want you to go from one end of the island to the next, in search of it, from among your membership and from those renegade dealers,� Mr. Samuda explained. �To my surprise, by the end of the day, it was returned to this Ministry,� the Minister stated.

Industry Ministry to Step up ISO Certification Drive

Wed, 20 Apr 2011 16:51:00 EST

The Ministry of Industry, Investment and Commerce will be stepping up its campaign of encouraging micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) to become certified in ISO quality management system and other equivalent certifications. This has been stated by Permanent Secretary in the Ministry, Reginald Budhan, who also said that a quality management system is integral to improvement in the competitiveness of MSMEs. �Enlightened companies are always sniffing around to find ways to improve their competitiveness, so that they can evolve. We want to see an exponential increase in companies certified to ISO 9001 quality management system and equivalent,� Mr. Budhan said. The Permanent Secretary, who was speaking at the launch of a quality management workshop for MSMEs, on April 19, at JAMPRO, in Kingston, encouraged managers of MSMEs to spend some time thinking strategically.

JMA Launch Phase Three of "Buy Jamaican, Build Jamaica"

Wed, 20 Apr 2011 16:17:00 EST

Industry, Investment and Commerce Minister, Hon. Karl Samuda, has called on local manufacturers to invest in the appropriate technologies, tools, and training, which will transform the sector and make it more competitive. He noted that while Jamaica had some of the most productive manufacturing workers, the industry lacked the requisite level of technological applications �that will make you more competitive." He was speaking at the launch of phase three of the Jamaica Manufacturers� Association (JMA) �Buy Jamaican, Build Jamaica� campaign on April 12 at the Designs by Marc complex in Spanish Town Road, Kingston. According to Minister Samuda, manufacturing offers the country the greatest opportunity of overcoming existing financial challenges. �We don�t want anybody to give us anything; we are quite capable of working our way out of the problems. What we want is the support from the financial sector; we want the support from the manufacturing sector with the bravery, the foresight, and the futuristic approach to invest in Jamaica,� he stated.

Minister Samuda Says No Poisoning Linked to Processed Ackees

Tue, 12 Apr 2011 12:47:00 EST

Minister of Industry, Investment and Commerce, Hon. Karl Samuda, says that contrary to media reports, processed ackee is safe for consumption and there has been no case of poisoning from the product. �These recent announcements that persons suffered food poisoning as a result of consuming ackees and implying that they may well have been ackees that were processed, is totally, absolutely and categorically false,� Mr. Samuda told a press briefing at his Ministry, New Kingston, Wednesday on April 6. He said the product is �now under stress and almost at a stage of crisis,� because of misinformation and lack of proper understanding of the importance of making sure that whatever comes out to the public, is accurate. �We cannot run risks with elements of our agriculture and industrial sectors that pose a threat to hardworking producers, who have fought for years to enter markets that are very competitive and discriminating,� Mr. Samuda said.� He noted that processors have begun to experience cancellation of orders, putting the industry under great threat.

Permanent Secretary Wants More Venture Capital to Support SME Sector

Tue, 12 Apr 2011 12:24:00 EST

Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Industry, Investment and Commerce, Reginald Budhan has expressed the hope that venture capital financing will increase, in order to provide more backing to the Small and Medium Enterprise (SME) sector. Mr. Budhan pointed out that whilst the Government has been seeing some successes in recent years, in terms of the opening up of the financial sector to allow small businesses easier access to financing, venture capital financing has proven to be a more difficult hurdle to tackle. The Permanent Secretary was speaking at a seminar on SMEs and alternative financing methods,�hosted by the Department of Management Studies at the University of the West Indies (UWI), at its Mona campus on April 5. He said that with the trending down of interest rates, there is a greater level of optimism among businesses, as lower rates will allow the pursuing of projects which were not viable before, due to high interest rates.

Scientific Research Council TO COMMERCIALISE UTECH INNOVATIONS

Tue, 12 Apr 2011 11:28:00 EST

The Ministry of Industry, Investment and Commerce through the Scientific Research Council (SRC), has partnered with the University of Technology (UTech), for the development and commercialisation of local inventions and innovations. Permanent Secretary in the Ministry, Reginald Budhan, on April 7, signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) at UTech�s Old Hope Road campus, under which the SRC has undertaken to market the innovations from research conducted by the university, for the benefit of the country. The other signatories were executive director, SRC, Dr. Chadwick Anderson; vice president, Graduate Studies, Research and Entrepreneurship, UTech, Professor Gossett Oliver; University Librarian, UTech, David Drysdale; Associate Vice President, Academic Management and Quality Assurance, UTech, Dr. Winsome Russell; and Acting Head, School of Pharmacy, College of Health Sciences, UTech, Dr. Janet Shelly. Speaking at the signing ceremony, which was held as part of UTech�s Research and Technology Day 2011, Mr. Budhan underscored that competitiveness of nations is highly dependent on the ability of researchers to harness innovation and technology to build sustainable businesses.

MINISTER SAMUDA SAYS MISSION TO T&T WAS SUCCESSFUL

Tue, 12 Apr 2011 09:55:00 EST

Minister of Industry, Investment and Commerce, Hon. Karl Samuda, has described as �enlightening and successful�, the results of the trade mission he led to Trinidad and Tobago between March 27 and 30. Mr. Samuda attributed this to the establishment of linkages with counterpart agencies, and discussions on reducing the bureaucracy existing between both countries, as well as other states in the region. He was speaking at a press briefing at his Ministry, New Kingston, on April 6. The mission included representatives of�the Jamaica Manufacturers� Association (JMA), the Jamaica Exporters� Association (JEA) and the Jamaica Chamber of Commerce (JCC), as well as representatives of JAMPRO and private companies visited Mr. Samuda pointed to the critical area of standards, which some of the discussions focused on, including developing a common approach to standards throughout the region, which would be necessary to penetrate European markets.

SAMUDA SAYS IT IS UNWISE TO DEPRIVE PRODUCTIVE SECTOR OF WAIVERS

Tue, 12 Apr 2011 09:34:00 EST

Minister of Industry, Investment and Commerce, Hon. Karl Samuda has emphasised that despite the Government�s commitment to review waivers in the productive sector, it would be unwise at this critical time, to deprive the sector of these facilities. �It would be totally non-productive to deprive the manufacturing sector of any facilities that we offer now to enable them to be more competitive - modernisation of industry; and removal of taxes on raw material and heavy equipment.�Without question, those are positions that we have to ensure are protected, because our main competitors are doing just that,� he declared. The Minister was speaking at a press briefing, held at the Ministry in New Kingston, on April 6. �We can�t put our people at a disadvantage at this time at all. It would be foolhardy,� he stressed. Mr. Samuda said the format by which the primary objective of competitiveness is met, may vary, but the Government must continue to offer support for local producers in agriculture and manufacturing.

INDUSTRY MINISTRY TO PROVIDE $10 MILLION FOR SBAJ

Tue, 12 Apr 2011 09:15:00 EST

Minister of Industry, Investment and Commerce, Hon. Karl Samuda says the Ministry is in an advanced stage of releasing $10 million, sourced from the Development Bank of Jamaica (DBJ), to the Small Business Association of Jamaica (SBAJ), for injection into productive activity. Addressing a press briefing at the Ministry in New Kingston, on April 6, Mr. Samuda explained that the funds are made available as a result of a commitment made to channel a portion of the funds from the DBJ, which is allotted to the Jamaica Business Development Corporation (JBDC), to support the productive sector by direct lending at 11 per cent interest.�

MINISTER SAMUDA VISITS TRINIDAD, ST. LUCIA

Mon, 04 Apr 2011 11:19:00 EST

Minister of Industry, Investment and Commerce Karl Samuda is recently attended a regional seminar on �Assessing the Economic Contribution and Performance of Creative Industries to National Economies in St. Lucia.� The three-day seminar, held jointly by the European Union, the International Trade Centre and the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO), sought to strengthen the region�s capacity to collect, analyze and disseminate economic data on the creative industries. Minister Samuda joined his St. Lucian counterpart, Charlotte Mangal in leading discussions on the potential of the creative industries as a vehicle for trade and development in the CARIFORUM region. Issues relating to trade were also discussed. Before going to St. Lucia, Minister Samuda met with his Trinidadian counterpart, Stephen Cadiz and members of that country�s business community. Discussions focused on investment opportunities; strengthening trade relationships between both countries and; closer collaboration between Government and the private sector. Minister Samuda also addressed the Trinidad and Tobago Manufacturers� Association�s AGM on the state of intra-Regional trade and the CARICOM Single Market.

Jamaica One of the Most Attractive Places to Invest - Samuda

Mon, 04 Apr 2011 09:44:00 EST

Minister of Industry, Investment and Commerce, Hon. Karl Samuda says Jamaica is one of the most attractive places to invest and conduct business. Speaking on March 17, at the opening of the third annual Jamaica/United Kingdom (UK)Investment Forum in London, the Minister said the Government has devised a model to encourage business, which had at its core, transparency, anti-corruption and the adoption of a sound fiscal and monetary policy, devoid of political expediency. This model, he said, included collaboration between the public and private sectors, a commitment to an open market approach, a commitment �to literally suck the oxygen out of unnecessary bureaucracy�; protection of the environment; support for greater access to capital; the privatisation of government owned assets; as well as commitment to a relentless fight against crime and violence. Mr. Samuda said the wheels are beginning to turn in the manufacturing sector and Jamaica had moved up by 20 places on the Human Development Index.

State Minister Highlights Critical Role of Business Support Organisations

Mon, 04 Apr 2011 09:20:00 EST

State Minister in the Ministry of Industry, Investment and Commerce, Hon. Michael Stern, has underscored the pivotal role which business support organisations (BSOs) play in enhancing the local and regional business community, particularly on matters impacting small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). Speaking at the opening of the fourth two-day CARIFORUM Regional Meeting of BSOs at the Jamaica Pegasus Hotel, New Kingston, on March 28, Mr. Stern said the input of BSOs is critical in enabling SMEs to fully develop the capacity and requisite technical �know-how� to take advantage of existing and emerging business and trade opportunities, to ensure their survival and �getting them to the next level." �As BSOs work with SMEs to improve their operational architecture and overall competitiveness, the primary objective is to help these businesses achieve their full potential. There is no doubt that the right support can make a world of difference in terms of attaining success,� the State Minister argued.

Entrepreneurs and Persons in the Creative Industry Urged to Protect Trademarks

Tue, 15 Mar 2011 15:59:00 EST

State Minister for Industry, Investment and Commerce, Hon. Michael Stern has called on local entrepreneurs and those in the creative industries, to ensure that their trademarks are protected across all countries with which they conduct business. Speaking at a forum on the Madrid System for the International Registration of Marks, at the offices of Jamaica Promotions Corporation (JAMPRO), in New Kingston on March 7,�Mr. Stern urged stakeholders to support the system, as it would redound to their benefit, and the protection of the Jamaican brand as a whole. �This is a changing world; change means growth, and therefore to make Jamaica grow, we need to go out there and let more businesses be aware. We have some of the most cultural products to be protected that nobody else has,� Mr. Stern said. He pointed out that Jamaica has lost much of its wealth in terms of culture. �Maybe three quarters of what we should be protecting is gone already,� he lamented.

MIN. SAMUDA LEADS LONDON INVESTMENT MISSION

Tue, 15 Mar 2011 15:42:00 EST

Minister of Industry, Investment and Commerce Karl Samuda leaves the island today for London at the head of a trade and investment mission aimed at stimulating demand for Jamaican products in the international market; generating new foreign direct investments into the island and creating partnerships between stakeholders in Jamaica and the U. K. The Minister will be accompanied by a team from Jamaica�s Trade and Investment Agency - JAMPRO � headed by its President, Sancia Bennett-Templer. Over the next five days, the Minister and the JAMPRO team will participate in a range of investment and promotional activities, including an International Food and Drink Trade Show and a Jamaica�U.K. Investment Forum in London which will seek to explain steps being taken by the Government to maintain a stable economic environment. The Forum will also provide an understanding of Jamaica�s financial sector to European investment banks; and will outline to European companies intending to expand operations, the benefits of establishing business in Jamaica.

Fashion Designers Urged to Produce High Quality Apparel

Mon, 07 Mar 2011 14:11:00 EST

Minister of Industry, Investment and Commerce, Hon. Karl Samuda, is encouraging fashion designers to remain consistent in producing the highest quality apparel, which he says, is critical for the success of the industry. �The quality, the standard must be consistent. It is on that basis that we are going to be able to build a reliable brand and branding is the key to success in the apparel business,� he said. �If you are going to get out into the world markets, we�ve got to start small but whatever we do, the quality must be the stamp, it must be the trademark, it must be that on which we are judged,� Minister Samuda stated on March 1, as he addressed the official opening of the new sewing room at the Edna Manley College of the Visual and Performing Arts in Kingston. He further underscored the need for training in high-end fashion design to appeal to an international market. �Jamaica cannot simply operate under the notion of only providing labour at the lowest end of the industry but must seek to create designs of our own that will take their place internationally,� he said.

STATEMENT ON THE IMPORTATION OF USED TYRES

Mon, 07 Mar 2011 09:53:00 EST

The Ministry, along with the Bureau of Standards Jamaica (BSJ) recognizes the need for the creation of a specific standard for used tyres in order to ensure the safety of the travelling public, as well as to address concerns of the used tyre industry. Accordingly, the Minister directed that the Bureau of Standards develop a used tyre standard in accordance with the Standards Act. It was also decided that a licensing regime be developed. In the interim, the Minister issued an order banning the importation of used tyres as at July 1, 2010. At a meeting on January 12, 2011, with the BSJ and stakeholders on the development of the Standards, the used tyre importers expressed concern that their views were not being represented. The Minister instructed that all stakeholders, including the Used Tyre Association, should be part of the consultative process prior to the finalization of the standards, consistent with the Standards Act.�

Local Manufacturers Urged to Maintain Quality of Products

Fri, 25 Feb 2011 17:04:00 EST

Minister of Industry, Investment and Commerce, Hon. Karl Samuda, is encouraging local manufacturers to employ the required processes to ensure their products are of the highest quality to attract buyers and enable their businesses to grow and compete. �A product is only as good as the people who make it, the management skills that are applied to it and the appropriate technology that is introduced, and once we put all those together, we can make as fine a product as anyone anywhere in the world,� the Minister emphasised. Mr. Samuda was speaking at the official opening of �House of Bags�, at the Barbican Centre, in St. Andrew on February 22. The Minister contended that producing consistently high quality products will enable manufacturers to be internationally competitive.

Minister Stern Welcomes Payless Investment in Jamaica

Fri, 25 Feb 2011 16:41:00 EST

State Minister in the Industry, Investment and Commerce, Michael Stern, has welcomed the investment and job creation opportunities stemming from the opening of the Payless ShoeSource franchise in the island. �With Payless being here, it is sending a signal to others, who are looking at investing in Jamaica to come quickly and take advantage of the opportunities that exist.�We are very happy for the business that you will be providing,� he said. The State Minister was speaking on February 17 at the official opening of the Payless store located at the Boulevard Super Centre in Kingston. He said Jamaica is recognised as one of the �fastest turning-around economies coming out of the recession and that is why I believe we are attracting companies like Payless to Jamaica.� Mr. Stern used the opportunity to encourage potential investors to come to the island, stating that it is time for Jamaica to be the number one place for investment in the Caribbean.

Minister Samuda Tours Wray and Nephew Plant

Fri, 25 Feb 2011 16:34:00 EST

Minister of Industry, Investment and Commerce, Hon. Karl Samuda, toured J. Wray and Nephew Limited�s manufacturing plant, Spanish Town Road, Kingston on Friday, February 18, to gain a firsthand view of the facility and its operations. Mr. Samuda was escorted by managing director of Global Marketing, David McConnell, and general manager, Production and Agriculture Division, Paul Henriques, to key areas of the plant, during which he interfaced with staff. In a short address to the staff before the tour, he noted that the company was an important part of Jamaica�s manufacturing community. �The success of J. Wray and Nephew is the success of Jamaica. J. Wray and Nephew is essential to the development and expansion of our economy. Everything, therefore, that we can do at our Ministry to facilitate your development and to enhance your production and to make you even more competitive, you have our support,� he stated.

Bureau of Standards Jamaica Work Highlighted at Public Forum

Fri, 18 Feb 2011 13:17:00 EST

The importance of the work�of the Bureau of Standards Jamaica were highlighted at a public forum, held at the Anglican Church Hall, in Port Maria, St. Mary, on February 2. The event was the first in a series of meetings planned islandwide to acquaint Jamaicans with the functions of the Bureau and sensitise them about the regulatory requirements established by that organisation. Executive Director of the Bureau, Noel Osbourne, said the event was held to encourage Jamaicans to adhere to the established regulatory standards relating to the business operations in which they are involved.

BSJ to Get Help to Upgrade Testing Laboratory

Fri, 18 Feb 2011 12:57:00 EST

The Bureau of Standards Jamaica (BSJ) is to receive assistance from the World Bank to upgrade and improve its calibration capabilities in its testing laboratory for refrigerators and freezers. This was disclosed by Executive Director of the BSJ, Noel G. Osbourne on February 14. Mr. Osbourne said this is one of the significant projects being undertaken by the BSJ for energy labelling, and that it would come on stream in the 2011/2012 financial year. This project is a collaborative effort of the BSJ and the Ministry of Energy and Mining. Mr. Osbourne said there is recognition of the need for greater energy conservation and a wider use of energy efficient appliances, hence the need to upgrade the testing facility. �We�re moving into other appliances like air conditioning equipment and others. In the past we�ve done work with solar energy, just to ensure that the claims about these appliances are true. If it is energy saving, we can carry out the tests to ensure that if the equipment is to consume 100 watts, then it is 100 watts,� he emphasised.

Register Food Processing Establishments with the BSJ

Fri, 18 Feb 2011 12:12:00 EST

All food processing establishments must immediately register with the Bureau of Standards Jamaica (BSJ) and failure to do so will result in the closure of the unregistered operations. The enforcement of this measure is in keeping with the legal requirement of the BSJ to ensure that goods produced meet the required standards with respect to health, safety and quality.� However, Executive Director of the Bureau of Standards Jamaica, Noel Osbourne has emphasized that this and other enforcement measures must be appreciated within the context of the positioning of the organization �to increase its role as facilitator for the productive sector in order to build consumer confidence in domestic output, enhance exports and in general, play its part in growing the Jamaican economy�. Mr. Osbourne observed that the Bureau is increasing its efforts to dispel the perception that the organization is merely a regulatory body focused on enforcement and the application of penalties and sanctions.

Companies Office of Jamaica to Implement New Fee Structure April 4

Fri, 18 Feb 2011 11:53:00 EST

Effective April 4, the Companies Office of Jamaica (COJ) will be implementing changes to its fee structure for services related to the registration of business names. According to Compliance Manager of the COJ, Heather Sutherland, the changes would include increases in fees for some services and the introduction of other services, to allow the COJ to operate more efficiently and improve service delivery, while satisfying their customers� needs as best as possible. �These fees were gazetted about a month ago and so, we are in the process of informing all business owners that if you are not renewed or registered, now is the time before the new fees come in effect,� Miss Sutherland said, reminding persons that if the fees are paid now, they will not have to worry about the fee increase until another three years, when next renewal will be due.

Facility to Fast-Track Exports Unveiled

Fri, 18 Feb 2011 11:33:00 EST

As of Monday, February 21, exporters will be introduced to a new world of convenience through services available under the Jamaica Promotions Corporation (JAMPRO) �Fast-Track Facility�. The facility seeks to provide a solution for new and existing exporters, who will be able to conduct most of their export-related transactions under one roof in the convenience of JAMPRO�s offices in Kingston and Montego Bay. Minister of Industry, Investment and Commerce, Hon. Karl Samuda, speaking at an exporters� forum at the Jamaica Conference Centre downtown Kingston on February 16, where the facility was unveiled, said that the service will help to foster greater competitiveness among the business sector. �This is one area of facilitating the export community in a manner that will enable them to get the head start on being able to be more competitive and more efficient,� he stated.

Government Making Space Available For Small Manufacturers

Fri, 04 Feb 2011 16:28:00 EST

The Government is making approximately 200,000 square feet (sq ft) of factory space available for rental to small businesses engaged in manufacturing, as part of initiatives to boost productivity in the sector. �We have under management at the Factories Corporation of Jamaica (FCJ) 1.9 million sq. ft. comprising 43 buildings, 21 of which are fully occupied, 14 are partially occupied and eight are unoccupied of which three can be used now,� said Minister of Industry, Investment and Commerce, Hon. Karl Samuda. He said that of the 200,000 sq. ft. available, �we are prepared to cut it up into small units to make it possible for small players, who cannot afford a 6,000 to 10,000 sq. ft. space, to participate�. The Minister was addressing the sixth Jamaica Stock Exchange (JSE) investment and capital market seminar on January 26 at the Jamaica Pegasus Hotel, New Kingston.

Minister Samuda Wants More Tax Breaks for Micro Businesses

Fri, 04 Feb 2011 16:03:00 EST

Minister of Industry, Investment and Commerce, Hon. Karl Samuda, has expressed support for a one year tax break for micro enterprise start-ups, in addition to a recently announced one year rent-free incentive. He was welcoming the inauguration of the Caribbean Microfinance Alliance (CMFA), as he launched the regional body on Thursday, January 27, at the Jamaica Pegasus Hotel, New Kingston. According to Mr. Samuda, the proposed one year tax-break would provide micro enterprises, in particular those operating informally, �with the breathing space to become formalized and become fully tax-compliant in year two of their operation�. Formalization of enterprises, he noted, also provides them access to affordable credit, incentives offered by state support agencies such as the Jamaica Business Development Centre, as well as business development training. These interventions, he emphasized, would enable the businesses to produce competitively for the domestic and export markets.

Samuda Appeals for International Support for Alternative Energy Policy

Fri, 04 Feb 2011 15:31:00 EST

Minister of Industry, Investment and Commerce, Hon. Karl Samuda, is appealing to the international community to partner with Jamaica, particularly in relation to strategies for alternative energy sources. �There are so many things that we can learn from you in terms of your strategies to...deal with alternative energy,� Mr. Samuda said in his Ministerial Address to the Diplomatic Corps at the Jamaica Promotions Corporation (JAMPRO) office, New Kingston, on Thursday, January 27. He said mechanisms for alternative energy sources need to be employed, as the high cost of energy, which the country has to contend with, impedes progress and discourages investment in heavy manufacturing. �So we need to aggressively assault that particular area. It is challenging, it is difficult, because the resources are not there to support the strategy of alternative energy, but we must begin,� he said.

Productive Sector Urged to Look to Renewable Energy

Mon, 24 Jan 2011 10:46:00 EST

Minister of Industry, Investment and Commerce, Hon. Karl Samuda, is encouraging the Wisynco Group Limited and other stakeholders in the productive sector to explore the use of renewable energies in an effort to reduce their electricity bills. This, he noted, would tie in with efforts being made by the Government to promote the use of alternate energy in order to lessen the country�s dependence on fossil fuel.

Government to Review Taxes/Waivers for Productive Sector

Mon, 17 Jan 2011 18:16:00 EST

The Ministers of Industry, Investment and Commerce and Finance and the Public Service will be meeting with the Jamaica Manufacturers Association (JMA) and other stakeholders in the Productive Sector, to review the taxes applied to raw material and capital goods and the granting of waivers. This was disclosed by Minister of Industry, Investment and Commerce, Hon. Karl Samuda, on Friday, January 14, following a tour of the Wisynco manufacturing plant, White Marl, St. Catherine. He said the Prime Minister, the Hon Bruce Golding, had given instructions in this regard.� �The question of the approval of waivers has received the attention of the Government at the highest level,� Mr. Samuda told a press conference at Wisynco, following the tour. �It was only yesterday that the Prime Minister made it clear that the Minister of Finance and I are to meet with the JMA, and other interested stakeholders, to review the whole question of tax on raw materials and capital goods and the whole issue surrounding the waivers that they are granted,� he said.

Minister Samuda Points to Stability in Cement Industry

Mon, 17 Jan 2011 17:52:00 EST

Minister of Industry, Investment and Commerce, Hon. Karl Samuda, says there has been stability in the cement industry, and a reduction in market prices, since the introduction of the regime allowing the private sector to import up to 15 per cent of cement for the local market, free of the Common External Tariff (CET). �We have seen where there has been great improvement in service. We want to keep it that way, but at the same time, we want to make sure that there is no threat to our manufacturing of cement in Jamaica,� Mr. Samuda on January 6, at a press conference at his New Kingston office. He said that the Ministry was working to put mechanisms in place to ensure that the levels of imports are contained within the 15 per cent limit. �Once we determine that the level of imports is sufficient to create a problem, we have the mechanisms and the authority to ensure that further imports would offer no benefit (to them), because they would be importing it at a loss,� he said.

Blue Chip Companies Interested In Caymanas Economic Zone

Mon, 17 Jan 2011 17:35:00 EST

Government is in discussions with 12 blue chip companies interested in investing in the Caymanas Economic Zone, which is being established in St. Catherine. Making the disclosure at a press conference at his Ministry, New Kingston, on January 6, Minister of Industry, Investment and Commerce, Hon. Karl Samuda, said that the companies have all expressed an interest in acquiring plots of the 200 acres which have been subdivided to stimulate local investment, and give local companies the opportunity to relocate and expand. �We have entered into preliminary discussions about pricing, location and so forth�it has taken a bit longer than we had anticipated,� Mr. Samuda acknowledged. However, he said that by the end of next month, the government will know the exact cost of infrastructure, and will be able to enter into contracts with investors. Construction of roads, drains and other infrastructure is slated to begin by July 1, and the process of handing over the lots should start by December.

Minister Hints at Legislation for Banks to Provide Information on Services

Mon, 17 Jan 2011 17:15:00 EST

Minister of Industry, Investment and Commerce, Hon. Karl Samuda, has indicated the possibility of legislation being promulgated, to ensure that commercial banks provide customers with adequate information on their services. "There is no point in saying that you need to do this, but there is no enforcement of that provision to protect the consumer," he said at a press conference at the Ministry's New Kingston offices on January 6. The Minister was speaking against the background of the recommendations of the Fair Trading Commission (FTC), that mechanisms be put in place to improve the availability of relevant information, so as to facilitate informed choices on the part of customers, and the banks. Mr. Samuda also advised that the Ministry would publish complaints of unfair practices and exorbitant fees, whenever these are brought to the FTC's attention.

Government to Continue Dialogue with Banks to Reduce Service Fees

Fri, 07 Jan 2011 18:47:00 EST

Minister of Industry, Investment and Commerce, Hon. Karl Samuda says the Government will not be letting up on banks to reduce unfair and exorbitant service fees, and that the Consumer Affairs Commission (CAC) will expose such practices wherever they are found. Speaking at a press conference at his Ministry's New Kingston offices on January 6, Mr. Samuda said the government was not just paying lip service, and that within three weeks, following discussions with Minister of Finance, Hon. Audley Shaw, a submission would be made to Cabinet to "put some teeth" into recommendations of the Fair Trading Commission (FTC), and the CAC. Presenting the findings of the FTC on the nature and extent of competition in the commercial banking sector, Mr. Samuda noted that the Commission had mainly focused on ancillary services, to asses whether any bank or group of banks could be hindering competition. Minister Samuda disclosed that the study had found that revenues earned through fees and commissions for services provided were "considerably" greater than the reported cost of providing such services.

Consumers Urged To Implement Energy Saving Measures

Fri, 07 Jan 2011 18:15:00 EST

Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the Consumer Affairs Commission (CAC), Dolsie Allen, is urging consumers to adjust their lifestyle, including implementing conservation measures, in light of forecasts of a hike in oil prices this year. Analysts from JPMorgan, Chase, Bank of America, Merrill Lynch, among others, are projecting that oil prices could surpass the US$100 per barrel mark in 2011. They attribute the development to, among other things, the weakening of the United States dollar as central bankers pump cash to help accelerate economic growth; increased demand for oil in emerging markets such as China; and a reduction in the stockpile of crude oil. Jamaicans will need to prepare,� Mrs. Allen told JIS News. She noted that the predicted price increase would affect all aspects of the local economy, including transportation, food and manufacturing. �It will be a time for penny-pinching,� she added. Mrs. Allen said now would be a good time to get the whole family involved in the conservation process. �Get the children involved as energy monitors�ensure that lights (and appliances) are turned off when they are not in use.�

Charities Made Use of COJ Amnesty In 2009/2010

Fri, 07 Jan 2011 17:42:00 EST

During 2009/2010 some 708 charitable organizations took advantage of a six-month amnesty offered by the Companies Office of Jamaica�s (COJ) to file outstanding documents. As contained in the Ministry of Industry, Investment and Commerce�s performance report for its agencies up to May 2010, Cabinet gave approval for the COJ to partially waive fees for the filing of certain documents by non-profit companies for a six-month period. The amnesty applied to companies limited by guarantee, such as churches, charities, service clubs, non-profit organisations, non-governmental organisations (NGOs), and professional associations. It allowed them to file outstanding documents with the COJ at fees reduced by between 50 and 75 per cent. Outstanding documents include Annual Returns, Income and Expenditure Statements, Change of Directors, Change of Address, Appointment of Secretary and Statutory Declarations.

SRC Continues to Provide Quality Scientific Solutions

Fri, 07 Jan 2011 17:35:00 EST

During the last financial year, the Scientific Research Council (SRC) continued to effectively serve the productive sector, policy makers and the general public through product research and development, providing quality scientific and technological solutions, and facilitating technology transfer. As set out in the Ministry of Industry, Investment and Commerce�s performance report for its agencies up to May 2010, more than 1,500 tissue culture plantlets were supplied by the SRC to local farmers, while technical services were provided in food processing to more than 80 clients. Additionally, four contracts for the research and development of food products were completed. Analytical services (chemical and microbiological) in water, wastewater and food were provided for the agro-processing and manufacturing sectors as well as private individuals. Environmental pollution load was addressed through the design of 40 wastewater treatment systems and the implementation of nine, with a system constructed for a major local fast food chain.

Trade Board Facilitated Us$209.12 Million in Exports

Fri, 07 Jan 2011 16:52:00 EST

The Trade Board, during the 2009/10 financial year, facilitated the export of products valued at US$209.12 million under various trade agreements.� Exports to CARICOM grew by 73 per cent reflecting, increased sales of cement to the region. During the same period, there was a five per cent increase in applications for the importation of refined sugar, reflecting modest growth in the juice and other industries that utilise sugar as input.�Applications for the importation of milk powder grew by 94 per cent, due to the development of new products, forward buying as a result of the high demand on the world market, and price instability. Meanwhile, 25 scrap metal dealers/carriers renewed their registration during the period in keeping with the requirement for re-registration each year in order to continue operations. In addition, the Trade Board issued 1,534 shipment certificates valued at US$17,987,733, accounting for 74 per cent of the total number of export permits issued for the trade. In addition, the agency issued 2,059 export licences, reflecting an increase of 13 per cent when compared with the previous period. The growth is attributed to increased exports of scrap metal and scrap jewellery and accounted for nearly three quarters of the total number of export licences supplied.