2026 Brings Renewed Business Optimism – Seiveright

State Minister in the Ministry of Industry, Investment and Commerce, Hon. Delano Seiveright, says Jamaica has entered 2026 with renewed business confidence.

He cited the rapid post-Hurricane Melissa recovery efforts, strong macro-economic fundamentals and improving national security conditions as key drivers of optimism.

“As we begin the new year, Jamaica’s recovery continues to advance steadily and decisively, and the country remains very much open for business,” Mr. Seiveright said in an interview with JIS News.

He pointed out that key national infrastructure is now operating at or above 90 per cent, including electricity, water, telecommunications, banking services and other essential systems.

Electricity restoration is approximately 93 per cent, supported by more than 300 overseas linesmen, reinforced local crews and significant inflows of specialised equipment and vehicles.

“This level of recovery, achieved in a relatively short period following Hurricane Melissa, speaks to the resilience of our institutions and the strong coordination between public agencies, the private sector and international partners,” the State Minister said.

Mr. Seiveright also pointed to Jamaica’s fully operational international airports, noting strong flight schedules and the addition of new international services for the winter 2025/2026 season and beyond.

He said these developments signal renewed confidence in Jamaica’s connectivity, tourism rebound and wider investment climate.

On the economic front, the State Minister highlighted Jamaica’s historically strong Net International Reserves (NIR), which stand at approximately US$6.3 billion, representing about 151 per cent of the international adequacy benchmark.

“In addition, Jamaica has secured an unprecedented, coordinated multilateral support package of up to US$6.7 billion from the International Monetary Fund, World Bank Group, Inter-American Development Bank, Development Bank of Latin America and the Caribbean and Caribbean Development Bank (CAF). This creates important fiscal space to accelerate recovery, reconstruction and long-term economic resilience,” he said.

The State Minister welcomed the historic reductions in murders and violent crime, emphasising that improved security outcomes are essential to sustained investment, business expansion and job creation.

“A safer Jamaica strengthens investor confidence, supports tourism, and allows micro, small and medium-sized enterprises to operate, expand and employ more Jamaicans with greater certainty,” he said.

Mr. Seiveright pointed out that communities most affected by Hurricane Melissa are steadily coming back to life, with rebuilding and repairs advancing through coordinated public, philanthropic, and private sector initiatives.

He further noted that Jamaica’s international profile continues to strengthen, with the country recently recognised by Cable News Network (CNN) among the top 20 places to visit, reinforcing its appeal not only as a tourism destination but also as a place to invest, do business and grow enterprises.

“Whether in micro and small businesses, manufacturing, global digital services, tourism, distribution, retail or emerging industries, Jamaica enters 2026 with strong fundamentals, clear policy direction and a deep commitment to supporting enterprise and investment,” Mr. Seiveright said.

Source: JIS