Minister Hylton Urges Logistics Hub Buy-In

Industry, Investment and Commerce Minister, Hon. Anthony Hylton, is again urging local business interests to support the proposed development of Jamaica’s global transshipment and logistics hub by taking advantage of the potential investment opportunities it provides.

Speaking at the Jamaica Chamber of Commerce’s (JCC) quarterly luncheon at the Hibiscus Lodge in Ocho Rios, St. Ann, on Saturday (February 16), Mr. Hylton said the development presents diverse prospects for the growth and expansion of the local business environment, and Jamaica’s economy.

“This initiative… is about positioning…Jamaica as a global asset, and the fourth node in the global logistics supply network. It has the potential to transform our economic fortunes, from which present and succeeding generations will all benefit,” the Minister contended.

Development of the hub, which is estimated will cost upwards of US$8 million, is being spearheaded by the government in an effort to position Jamaica to take advantage of anticipated increased maritime activities projected to accrue from the expansion of the Panama Canal, by 2015.

Central to the development are: dredging of the Kingston Harbour; expansion of the Port of Kingston; development of the Caymanas Economic Zone, a transshipment commodity port, and Vernamfield in Clarendon as an air-cargo and passenger facility; and establishment of a dry dock facility.