Prospective entrepreneurs are being urged to venture into new niche markets that will provide greater returns for themselves and their businesses. Former President of the Jamaica Manufacturers’ Association (JMA), Brian Pengelley, said the areas they could explore include the approximately $600 billion nutraceutical industry; the US$20 billion bamboo industry; agro-processing; and providing agricultural products for the tourism sector. Mr. Pengelley was addressing a...

Industry, Investment and Commerce Minister, Hon. Anthony Hylton, says the country must get the framework for a regulated and legalized cannabis industry right the first time. He emphasized that Jamaica is left with no choice but to ensure that every aspect of legally participating in the regulated sector, is done correctly. “The Cannabis Licensing Authority (CLA) has deliberately remained sequestered...

Industry, Investment and Commerce Minister, Hon. Anthony Hylton, says there are many opportunities for Jamaica to become a standout country in a regulated and legal marijuana industry. Speaking at the Swept Away Resort in Negril on Saturday, November 14, on the final day of a Beckley Foundation two-day conference on Jamaica’s Cannabis Reforms, the Minister said while many countries have...

President of Jamaica Promotions Corporation (JAMPRO), Diane Edwards, is urging players in the local cannabis sector, to place some focus on the untapped international nutraceutical market. Addressing a conference on Jamaica’s Cannabis Reforms in Negril, on November 14, Ms. Edwards said the nutraceutical industry has an estimated value of US$170 billion, and is yearning for participants. She pointed out that the...

National Food Safety Week 2015 will be observed from November 15-21, and several activities will be held under the theme: ‘Safe Foods from Production to Consumption: the Gateway to Health and Wealth’. Addressing a JIS ‘Think Tank’, on November 11, Acting Deputy Food Storage Officer in the Food Storage and Prevention of Infestation Division, Ministry of Industry, Investment and Commerce,...

A new peer mentorship-based program to support high-potential women entrepreneurs in the Caribbean was launched today.  The eight-month intensive Acceleration Program will provide participants with a wide range of support services to innovate their businesses, improve competitiveness and boost their growth.  This will include peer-learning, personal development, one-to-one mentoring/coaching, technical workshops, and motivational sessions by successful entrepreneur role models. “We...

In a move to deepen the promotion of quality in the provision of goods and services, the Ministry of Industry, Investment and Commerce will be instituting an excellent award and pursuing ISO 9001 certification. Portfolio Minister, Hon. Anthony Hylton, who made the disclosure on Tuesday (November 10), said Jamaica must place increased focus on standards and quality in order to...