News

Jamaica is taking a major step towards creating a nationally coordinated industrial development strategy through its first Special Economic Zone (SEZ) Master Plan, which will guide where future investments, industrial clusters and export-oriented industries are developed across the country. The latest stakeholder consultation on the development of the Master Plan, held recently at The Jamaica Pegasus hotel, brought together representatives of government ministries and agencies, the Inter-American Development...

The Full Story Associated Manufacturers Limited (AML), the Jamaican company behind the globally recognised Walkerswood brand, is accelerating its export growth strategy, through significant investments in production capacity, agricultural development, and market expansion. The company, a leading manufacturer and exporter of authentic Jamaican seasonings, sauces, and condiments, is investing approximately US$1.5 million this business year to expand its farming network, strengthen processing capabilities, and increase manufacturing output. Supported...

The Full Story Kingston Freeport Terminal Limited (KFTL) is strengthening Jamaica’s position as a leading global logistics hub, leveraging its operations under the Special Economic Zone (SEZ) framework to boost connectivity, attract investment, and generate new economic opportunities. Chief Executive Officer (CEO), Carlos Cabrera, says the terminal remains one of the largest and most strategically important container hubs in the region, serving as a vital link between Jamaica...

SUSTAINABILITY has become a crucial element of the Special Economic (SEZ) regime in Jamaica, with Jamaica Special Economic Zone Authority (JSEZA) developing a strategy to promote and encourage sustainable development across the regime. JSEZA has coined the term ‘sustain-a-livity’ which incorporates environmental, economic, and social components of sustainability. JSEZA relies on this concept in their evaluation of SEZ proposals as it draws on the United Nation’s Sustainable Development...

EFFECTIVE April 1, 2025, the Jamaica Special Economic Zone Authority (JSEZA) will revise the special economic zone (SEZ) framework to eliminate the need for annual renewals of SEZ Operating Certificates for developers and occupants. Under the revised framework, operating certificates for developers will now extend for the duration of the licence agreement, while occupants’ certificates will match the length of their sub-concession terms. According to the JSEZA, by...

The Government says it is willing to consider amending legislation to allow investors within special economic zones (SEZs) to generate and sell electricity to occupants in the zones. Currently, only the Jamaica Public Service Company (JPS), under an exclusive licence, has the right to supply electricity in Jamaica. According to Minister of Industry, Investment and Commerce Senator Aubyn Hill, a broader implementation of electricity distribution is necessary within...