New SEZ in Montego Bay Expected to Generate Hundreds of Jobs

Tailwind Corporation (Jamaica) Limited, a newly designated Special Economic Zone (SEZ), is expected to generate hundreds of jobs and contribute billions of dollars to Jamaica’s economy when fully operational.

The development, which will be located in Montego Bay, will comprise a 100,000 square-foot, multi-unit warehouse complex featuring 24 purpose-built units across six size configurations, ranging from approximately 3,500 to 7,500 square feet. Construction is slated to begin in 2026, with completion targeted for the fourth quarter of 2027.

Once operational, the Tailwind SEZ is projected to provide employment across multiple phases, including construction, logistics, retail, business process outsourcing and professional services, while facilitating new investment inflows and export-oriented activity.

In an interview with JIS News, Chief Financial Officer (CFO) for the project, Kerwin Hamil, said the development is expected to inject significant capital into the economy during construction alone.

“In terms of construction, the project is expected to contribute in excess of $2 billion in construction costs, excluding land. When land acquisition is factored in, total investment is expected to approach $3 billion,” he said.

He noted that construction activities are expected to engage approximately 150 to 200 workers, with longer-term operations projected to support an estimated 750 jobs across service, logistics, retail and ancillary industries.

“This project will contribute meaningfully to Jamaica’s gross domestic product, while also reducing unemployment within Montego Bay and, by extension, across the country,” Mr. Hamil added.

For his part, Tailwind Corporation’s Chief Executive Officer (CEO), Rupert Chue, outlined the company’s background and development vision, noting that the SEZ represents the company’s first major project since its formation as a development entity.

“Tailwind Corporation (Jamaica) Limited is a newly established development company, and this is our first project. We are developing a modern warehouse and commercial facility designed to support a wide range of business activities, including logistics and service-based operations,” the CEO explained.

The SEZ will feature both road-level and dock-height units, allowing for flexible use by tenants involved in logistics, distribution and commercial services.

Mr. Chue said the development is designed to attract a diverse mix of tenants, including business process outsourcing firms, fast-moving consumer goods companies, retailers, professional service providers and established Jamaican conglomerates.

Beyond its physical infrastructure, the Tailwind SEZ is being positioned as a high-standard, future-ready facility, incorporating modern features, such as electric vehicle (EV) readiness, renewable energy solutions, water recycling systems and 24-hour security and management services.

Mr. Chue also highlighted the strategic importance of the SEZ’s location, noting that “the site is less than half a mile from major transport infrastructure and is in close proximity to the port, making it ideal for logistics and distribution activities”.

“This level of accessibility enhances Jamaica’s competitiveness as an investment destination,” he said.

He added that participation in Jamaica’s SEZ regime has significantly strengthened the project’s value proposition.

“The process with Jamaica Special Economic Zone Authority exceeded our expectations. The level of professionalism, guidance and responsiveness gave us confidence and added credibility to the project. Being part of the SEZ regime is a game changer for Tailwind and for investors considering this space,” the CEO noted.

Looking ahead, Tailwind Corporation plans to leverage the success of this development to pursue additional projects across Jamaica as opportunities arise.

The Tailwind SEZ is expected to play a key role in enhancing Jamaica’s integration into regional and global value chains, while strengthening Montego Bay’s position as a key hub for logistics, services and commercial activity.