Chicago Business Community Urged to Invest in Jamaica

Ambassador to the United States, Anthony Johnson, has encouraged the Chicago business community to take a “serious look” at Jamaica, noting that amidst the economic downturn, the country offered great investment opportunities.
In an address to the businesspeople at a luncheon at the Top Notch Restaurant in the United States city on Friday (Feb. 20), Ambassador Johnson cited business opportunities in tourism, including health tourism and attractions; agriculture; manufacturing; as well as at the ports and in the free zones.
He said that Jamaica was open for business, and “we are ready to welcome all those who want to partner with us”.
In response to the demand for more Jamaican products to be made available to local retail stores in Chicago, Ambassador Johnson promised to meet with Jamaican exporters to determine ways to meet the growing demand.
He expressed a desire to stage a Jamaica week in Chicago, during which all things Jamaican would be on display.
Ambassador Johnson was in Chicago last week for an official two-day visit at the invitation of Jamaica’s Honorary Consul to Chicago, Lloyd Hyde.
On the first full day of the visit, the Ambassador toured several retail stores and supermarkets that carry Jamaican products. On Saturday night (Feb. 21) he delivered the keynote address at the Jamaican Consulate of Chicago’s gala awards banquet, where 10 Jamaicans were recognized for their outstanding contributions to the Jamaican community in Chicago.