Government Encourages BPO Stakeholders to Plan the Way Forward

Minister without Portfolio in the Ministry of Finance and the Public Service, Hon. Fayval Williams is encouraging stakeholders in the Business Process Outsourcing sector (BPO) to come together and plan the way forward for the rapidly growing industry.

Speaking at a VIP Luncheon and Awards on the final day of the Outsource2Jamaica Symposium and Expo at the Montego Bay Convention Centre, recently, Mrs. Williams said the sector has been expanding and impacting Jamaicans at all levels.

“We can all see the industry developing island wide. It’s no longer just in Kingston and St. James but also in other parishes. That is growth we can all be excited about,” she stated.

The BPO sector is one of the fastest growing industries, which has contributed in excess of US$400 million to Jamaica’s economy, and has exponential multiplier effects with other sectors, such as security, transportation, retail, food and beverage, insurance, financial and others.

For her part, President of Jamaica Promotions Corporation (JAMPRO) Diane Edwards said Jamaica’s rising profile as the ideal Caribbean destination for the BPO sector, is a result of years of partnerships and developments.

“Outsourcing continues to grow far beyond estimates, as the industry experiences a boom in new projects and expansions,” she noted.

Meanwhile, Minister without portfolio in the Ministry of Economic Growth and Job Creation, Hon. Karl Samuda said the industry represents the fastest growing sector in the Jamaican economy, accounting for over 26,000 jobs and projecting to add at least another 5,000 by 2019.

“At the end of 2017, following the rapid expansion of the sector, revenues climbed to an excess of US$400 million. These impressive statistics represent an industry that is keen to engage our Jamaican youth and provide a stable source of income to many Jamaican families,” he stated.

At the event, four awards were handed out for outstanding contributions to the BPO sector over the years.

Tech Company Conduit Jamaica, received the BPO Economic Impact Award; while former Technology Minister, Phillip Paulwell, received the award for outstanding work in the development of the BPO sector.

In addition, businessman Gordon Marzouca, received the Pioneer Award in private sector development; while Former Prime Minister, The Most Hon. Edward Seaga received the Pioneer Award in Outsourcing.

The Outsource2Jamaica Symposium and Expo was put on by the Business Process Industry Association of Jamaica (BPIAJ) and its members and partners, including JAMPRO.