Government Targets Manufacturing Sector in Push for Growth

Prime Minister, the Most Hon. Andrew Holness, says the manufacturing sector is a major target area in the Government’s push for economic growth and job creation.

“Manufacturing in Jamaica is not dead. Manufacturing is alive and kicking,” Mr. Holness said, following a tour of the Wisynco Group’s White Marl complex in St. Catherine on October 19.

The Prime Minister hailed Wisynco, which is a leading manufacturing and distribution Company locally, for its high level of investment in the sector, referencing the installation of cutting-edge equipment and technology at the factory that serves to improve efficiency and sustainability.

“It is clear that you believe in Jamaica and you believe in the prospects of Jamaica,” Mr. Holness said.

Wisynco manufactures a range of food, beverage, paper and plastic products.

Meanwhile, President of the Jamaica Manufacturers’ Association (JMA), Metry Seaga, also praised the company for helping to keep manufacturing alive in Jamaica, noting that he observes ‘First World’ quality at the plant.

“We appreciate you being a part of the manufacturing family. These are the stories we need to keep telling as manufacturers, because at the JMA we feel committed to the fact that manufacturing and productivity is the only way for Jamaica (to have economic growth),” he said.

According to the latest report from the Economic Programme Oversight Committee (EPOC), the Statistical Institute of Jamaica (STATIN) shows that the Goods Producing sector has recorded growth of 3.3 per cent for the April to June quarter.