Online Tool Developed to Deepen Tourism Linkages

As part of the Government’s efforts to deepen the linkages between the tourism industry and the rest of the economy, an online tool has been developed for use by suppliers and buyers.

Making the announcement during his contribution to the 2013/14 Sectoral Debate in the House of Representatives, on Tuesday, July 2, portfolio Minister, Hon. Dr. Wykeham McNeill, said the programme provides a common area for buyers to identify needs and suppliers to meet those needs.

“This tool is supported by the Ministry of Agriculture and Fisheries, the Rural Agricultural Development Authority (RADA), Jamaica Promotions Corporation (JAMPRO), the Jamaica Business Development Corporation (JBDC), the Jamaica Manufacturers’ Association (JMA) and the EXIM Bank, and is plugged into databases operated by these agencies,” Dr. McNeill said.

The Minister noted that the online tool was developed as a result of the deliberations of the Tourism Linkages Task Force, and out of which it was also determined that a Tourism Linkages Hub be established at the Tourism Ministry to drive the linkages initiative.

“Already, reports of positive benefits are coming in from the manufacturing sector. Just a day or two ago one manufacturer credited the Hub initiative with his success in landing an order from a large hotel operator. Additionally, discussions are in an advanced stage for the supply of furniture to a major hotel chain,” the Minister said.

Also coming out of the task force meetings, the EXIM Bank is creating a facility for receivables financing for suppliers who provide goods and services to the hotel sector, he further noted.

“This will be enormously useful in reducing cost and keeping valuable capital in the suppliers’ hands, without a protracted wait for payment,” Dr. McNeill informed.

Contact: Alecia Smith-Edwards