Exporters Empowered to Seize Opportunities in Global Markets

Scores of local entrepreneurs, exporters and persons looking to enter the export market gained valuable insights and tools to expand or seize business opportunities, at a two-day Export Information Workshop hosted by The Trade Board Limited (TBL).

Held in conjunction with the Ministry of Industry, Investment & Commerce (MIIC) and the Jamaica Manufacturers and Exporters Association (JMEA), the free online sessions provided participants with critical knowledge on leveraging export opportunities and navigating international markets effectively.

Day one featured a dynamic presentation and live demonstration of EXPORTJamaica, a groundbreaking digital platform that simplifies export procedures.

Emphasising the platform’s ability to save time, improve efficiency and enhance the competitiveness of local exporters, Manager of Systems Engineering and Programming at TBL, Jason Mills, said that “EXPORTJamaica represents a key step in our mission to enable Jamaican businesses to thrive in the global marketplace”.

The second day delved into the critical topic of ‘Leveraging Trade Agreements’, presented by TBL’s Senior Legal Counsel, Kanika Tomlinson, who outlined the significant advantages Jamaican businesses can gain by utilising trade agreements to access international markets with reduced or no duties.

“Trade agreements provide manufacturers and exporters with a competitive edge, hence understanding and applying these agreements are key to unlocking preferential market access,” she said.

Participants were also taken through the process of obtaining a Certificate of Origin, which grants exporters preferential treatment in international markets.

Highlighting the success of the event, Executive Director of the JMEA, Kamesha Turner Blake, praised the collaboration, stating that “by uniting the strengths of MIIC, TBL, and JMEA, this partnership has empowered entrepreneurs with the tools, knowledge, and networks they need to thrive on the global stage”.

For her part, Acting Trade Administrator and Chief Executive Officer of the TBL, Althea Matthews, said described it as a testament to Jamaica’s vibrant entrepreneurial spirit.

“The overwhelming interest from participants underscores the importance of public education on export opportunities and we are committed to strengthening the foundation for Jamaica’s economic transformation through initiatives like the Jamaica Trade Information Portal and EXPORTJamaica,” she said.

Companies interested in tailored export sessions may contact the Trade Board Limited at info@tradeboard.gov.jm or call 876-967-0507.

Source: JIS