The Jamaican economy contracted by an estimated 5.7 per cent in the January to March 2021 quarter, largely due to the impact of the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic. This estimated decline is in comparison to the corresponding period last year. Director General of the Planning Institute of Jamaica (PIOJ), Dr. Wayne Henry, made the disclosure while providing a preliminary estimate on...

The Government is providing greater safeguards for brand Jamaica on the international marketplace through passage of amendments to the Trade Marks Act in the House of Representatives on Tuesday (June 1). Amendments to Section 12 of the Act places appropriate restrictions on the use of the country’s Coat of Arms, the Jamaican Flag or any other national emblem or symbol...

Minister of Industry, Investment and Commerce, Hon. Audley Shaw, is encouraging more entrepreneurs to formalise their businesses through registration in order to gain access to greater funding opportunities with lower interest rates. He said formalisation will also allow businesses to become more competitive in the local as well as the international marketplace. “Instead of going to borrow money at 20...

The Criminal Justice (Suppression of Criminal Organisations) (Amendment) Act, 2021, commonly called the Anti-Gang legislation, was passed in the House of Representatives on Tuesday (June 1), with four amendments. The legislation will provide additional support to the work of law enforcement in interrupting and undermining organised criminal activity. In closing the debate, Minister of National Security, Hon. Dr. Horace Chang,...

Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the Jamaica National Agency for Accreditation (JANAAC), Sharonmae Shirley, is encouraging stakeholders in the cannabis industry to seek accreditation of their products, as this is critical in removing technical barriers to trade. The multibillion-dollar global industry is connected with several critical sectors, including healthcare, pharmaceuticals, consumer goods, and agriculture. “If your company wants to demonstrate...

The JSIF-Integrated Community Development Programme (ICDP), Alternative Livelihood and Skills Development initiative has significantly enhanced the capacity development of several young people across communities within Jamaica. Young, Javan Williams is a proud recipient of the programme and is now reaping economic benefits from the knowledge gained in the area of Heating, Ventilation and Air Conditioning (HVAC) principles. Javan revealed that...

The Government is engaged in discussions with entertainment stakeholders, with a view to agreeing on the appropriate protocols that could facilitate a limited reopening of the industry during the summer. Prime Minister, the Most. Hon. Andrew Holness, made the disclosure during a statement on new coronavirus (COVID-19)-prevention measures in the House of Representatives on June 1. Mr. Holness said that...