American micro loan and pawn company, CashWiz Holdings Limited, is targeting investment of just over $960 million (US$8 million) to expand its local operations to at least 12 stores, by the end of 2016. Currently, the entity, which operates locally under the name CashWiz Jamaica, with its head office in Montego Bay, has other outlets on Half Way Tree Road...

The Consumer Affairs Commission (CAC) is urging consumers  to be very cautious when considering  same day loans, also referred to as payday loans or quick loans. Director of Communication at the CAC, Latoya Halstead, told JIS News in an interview, that while these loans might seem attractive, it is important that consumers ensure that the deals being offered are realistic...

The Consumer Affairs Commission (CAC) is urging consumers to spend wisely during the holiday season. Communications Specialist at the CAC, Dorothy Campbell, tells JIS News that before any holiday related purchase is made, the family should first meet to plan a budget for spending. She explains that this exercise will enable family members to distinguish between needs and wants, and...

Have an innovative idea? The Scientific Research Council (SRC), through its research and product development services, can help budding entrepreneurs turn their ideas into commercially viable businesses that can create wealth and employment. The agency, which is International Standardization Organization (ISO): 9001 certified, with ISO:17025 accredited laboratories, provides expertise in canning, processing of milk and milk products, freezing and dehydration...

Industry, Investment and Commerce Minister, Hon. Anthony Hylton, says the Government will continue to promote and facilitate investments in the very lucrative medical tourism sector. Medical tourism refers to persons travelling to another country for medical care, based on affordability. Speaking at a lecture on medical tourism at the Caribbean School for Medical Sciences, in Kingston, on December 16, the...

The Bureau of Standards Jamaica (BSJ) is intensifying its activities to increase the compliance rate among block makers. Already, a number of manufacturers have brought their operations up to standard, since the agency raised concern about the high percentage of faulty hollow concrete blocks on the market. Director of the Regulatory Division at the BSJ, Orine Henry, said the four...

Minister of Justice, Senator the Hon. Mark Golding, says that through the new Special Economic Zones (SEZs) regime, the Government is seeking to build a robust and modern framework that will not only benefit international investors but the Jamaican economy as a whole. He was speaking in the Senate on Friday (December 11), where the SEZ Bill was passed with...