http://www.miic.gov.jm News Feed - The Ministry of Industry, Investment & Commerce, Jamaica. en-us Fri, 23 Jul 2010 16:33:00 EST Fri, 23 Jul 2010 16:32:00 EST Notepad ksalmon@miic.gov.jm 360 http://www.miic.gov.jm/News/news_wir_2010.php ]]> Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Industry, Investment and Commerce, Reginald Budhan, emphasised that investing in a greener future has assumed added significance and urgency, given the emergence of climate change and its ill effects on global weather systems. The Permanent Secretary noted that one area that offers significant opportunity for investment in the future, which would assist in the green process, is renewable energy, especially in the area of electricity generation from solar energy. "This must be the primary source of energy for the future. Shortly fossil fuel will not be our source of primary energy for the future," he pointed out. Mr. Budhan was speaking at the launch of the 20th edition of the United Nations World Investment Report 2010, under the theme: 'Investing in a Greener Future', at Jamaica Promotions Corporation (JAMPRO), in New Kingston on July 22. Fri, 23 Jul 2010 16:31:00 EST http://www.miic.gov.jm/News/news_wir_2010.php http://www.miic.gov.jm/News/news_stern_najaso.php ]]> Minister of State in the Ministry of Industry, Investment and Commerce, Hon. Michael Stern, has called on members of the National Association of Jamaican and Supportive Organisations (NAJASO), as well as the next generation of Jamaicans in the Diaspora, to invest in Jamaica. "As Government, we are confident that there are vast opportunities in Jamaica for investments, which will ultimately strengthen the Jamaican economy," Mr. Stern said. He was speaking at NAJASO's 33rd Annual Convention and Awards Banquet, held at the Sunset Jamaica Grande Resort, in Ocho Rios, on July17. Fri, 23 Jul 2010 16:13:00 EST http://www.miic.gov.jm/News/news_stern_najaso.php http://www.miic.gov.jm/News/news_kfz_records_profits.php ]]> The Kingston Free Zone (KFZ) made a profit of $55.17 million for the financial year ending March 31, 2010, as the company, despite the economic recession, made efforts to meet its targets, mainly through prudent management of expenditure and strong client servicing practices. Foreign exchange earnings from rental income and management fees for the year totalled US$1.02 million, while $59.52 million was earned from the rental of warehousing space to local companies. This allowed the KFZ to fulfill its mandate to generate foreign currency earnings through the sale of US$400,000 to local commercial banks as well as through lease payments on its inter-company account and the repayment of a shareholder's loan to its parent company amounting to US$878,204. This is outlined in a Ministerial report on the performance of the KFZ for 2009/2010, which was tabled in Parliament recently. In relation to client service activities, the arrangement for the lease of 30,000 square feet of warehousing space to the Jamaica Commodity Trading Company for the storage of fertilizer on behalf of the Ministry of Industry, Investment and Commerce (MIIC), ended in September. Eighteen thousand square feet of this space has already been refurbished and rented to new client, Caribbean Depot, while arrangements are in place to refurbish the remaining 12,000 square feet for rental to the same client in this new fiscal year. Wed, 02 Jun 2010 15:47:00 EST http://www.miic.gov.jm/News/news_kfz_records_profits.php http://www.miic.gov.jm/News/news_cac_restructuring.php ]]> The Consumer Affairs Commission (CAC) is looking to restructure its services and upgrade its human resource capacity, to enable more timely response to consumer complaints. As stated in a Ministry Paper tabled in the House of Representatives recently by Industry, Investment and Commerce Minister, Hon. Karl Samuda, the move is part of a number of measures to be undertaken by the agency this fiscal year as it seeks to strengthen the services offered. Other imperatives for 2010/11 include the development of a consumer advocacy kit for non-governmental organisations (NGOs) and community-based organisations as well as the producing and airing of messages to reach at least 1.6 million consumers. The print and electronic media will be utilised in the dissemination of messages. The CAC is also seeking to strengthen the consumer protection policies in Jamaica, Barbados and Trinidad and Tobago, by reinforcing the capacity of NGOs and government agencies to champion the rights of consumers, particularly within the banking and credit sectors. Wed, 02 Jun 2010 15:38:00 EST http://www.miic.gov.jm/News/news_cac_restructuring.php http://www.miic.gov.jm/News/news_sweet_company_300_jobs.php ]]> Minister of Industry, Investment and Commerce, Hon. Karl Samuda, has said that some 300 permanent jobs will be created for residents of Hanover through the opening of Sandy Bay Sweets in June 2010. The Minister, who opened the 2010/11 Sectoral Debate in Gordon House on May 11, said that the confectionery manufacturing facility, which will be sited at the old Jockey factory in Sandy Bay, will provide capital investment to the economy of approximately US$1.2 million. "Sandy Bay Sweets is a premier manufacturer of specialty food products, and will manufacture cookie and hard candy to be sold under the 'Just Delicious' brand, a product line which was previously made in China," he stated. The products, which have been featured on lifestyle media such as the 'Food Network' and 'Better Homes and Gardens', will be supplied to large American retail entities such as TJ Maxx and Costco. Wed, 02 Jun 2010 15:26:00 EST http://www.miic.gov.jm/News/news_sweet_company_300_jobs.php http://www.miic.gov.jm/News/news_fspid_continues_battle_against_infestation.php ]]> The Food Storage and Prevention of Infestation Division (FSPID) of the Ministry of Industry, Investment and Commerce continues to mitigate rodent infestation in food/feed stores, post offices, prisons and hospitals. Stakeholders in the food industry have been empowered, through various training programmes and consultations, to take responsibility for rodent control through proper environmental management, according to the Ministerial Report on the performance of the division during 2009/10, tabled in Parliament, recently. During the year, 20 rodent control programmes were implemented; 123 inspections were conducted; 3,540 bait stations were set; 62 analysis of areas, including breeding programmes, rodenticide evaluations and species identification tests were done; and 1,642 individuals and companies received consolations. Wed, 02 Jun 2010 15:14:00 EST http://www.miic.gov.jm/News/news_fspid_continues_battle_against_infestation.php http://www.miic.gov.jm/News/news_ftc_investigates_424_cases.php ]]> A total of 424 cases were investigated by the Fair Trading Commission (FTC) last year, with 266 being completed and closed, a resolution rate of 63 per cent. Some 209 complaints were also received during the 2009/10 fiscal year with 59 complaints received for the telecommunications industry; 26 for household appliances and supplies; 20 for motor vehicles; 18 for financial and insurance services; 15 for real estate and construction; 15 for education; eight for the professional services sector; six for the transportation sector; five for government services and 37 and for other categories. This is outlined in the Ministerial Report, which was tabled in the House of Representatives recently by Minister of Industry, Investment and Commerce, Hon. Karl Samuda. During the year under review, the FTC began conducting a study of the commercial banking sector. The objectives are: to characterise the costs which are likely to be faced by consumers in switching from one bank to another; and to characterize the extent of information asymmetry on the part of consumers of retail banking. Wed, 02 Jun 2010 15:02:00 EST http://www.miic.gov.jm/News/news_ftc_investigates_424_cases.php http://www.miic.gov.jm/News/news_laws_to_be_amended_antidumping.php ]]> The Anti-Dumping and Subsidies Commission (ADSC), for the financial year 2010/11, will facilitate amendments to various laws, aimed at making the agency more effective in carrying out its functions. According to a report tabled recently by Minister of Industry, Investment and Commerce, Hon. Karl Samuda, in the House of Representatives, the Commission will continue to facilitate, where possible, the completion of amendments to resolve issues with the Customs Duties (Dumping and Subsidies) Act, 1999 and Regulations. The Report also stated that the ADSC will commence amendments needed to resolve deficiencies in, and strengthen the Safeguard Act, 2003 and Regulations. Also in the fiscal year, the Commission will seek to educate businesses and other associations, on trade remedies and related matters. "This will be undertaken by means of speaking engagements, workshops and seminars," the report stated. Wed, 02 Jun 2010 11:21:00 EST http://www.miic.gov.jm/News/news_laws_to_be_amended_antidumping.php http://www.miic.gov.jm/News/news_symposia_policy_framework_msme.php ]]> The first in a series of three symposia focusing on Jamaica’s micro, small and medium-sized enterprise (MSME) sector got underway on May 12 on the Mona campus of the University of the West Indies (UWI). The series, hosted by the university in collaboration with the Ministry of Industry, Investment and Commerce, and Jamaica Trade and Invest (JTI)/Jamaica Promotions Corporation (JAMPRO), was aimed at stimulating further discussions on the policies that are required to foster the growth and development of the country’s MSME sector. Themed: ‘Creating a Policy Framework for the MSME Sector in the Jamaican Economy’, the objective of the seminar was to get a broad cross-section of MSME stakeholders from the public and private sectors to assess and prioritise existing policy proposals, and point the way towards early policy adoption and implementation that have the potential to significantly impact Jamaica’s development. Wed, 02 Jun 2010 11:06:00 EST http://www.miic.gov.jm/News/news_symposia_policy_framework_msme.php http://www.miic.gov.jm/News/news_cez_expanded.php ]]> The Caymanas Economic Zone (CEZ) project in St. Catherine has been oversubscribed and the project expanded to accommodate the additional interest, according to Minister of Industry, Investment and Commerce, Hon. Karl Samuda. The Minister, who opened the 2010/11 Sectoral Debate in Gordon House on May 11, said that there has been “overwhelming” response from local business interests to the August 2009 press advertisements for expressions of interest in phase one of the project. The Minister said that a shortlist has been created and, with the planning and preliminary design completed, the Ministry is about to engage in negotiations with these parties. The Government is employing a two-pronged approach to the development of the CEZ, one of which involves the Ministry spearheading the build-out of a zero emission industrial park on the northern-side of the zone. The responsibility for implementing this project has been transferred to the Factories Corporation of Jamaica. Fri, 14 May 2010 13:23:00 EST http://www.miic.gov.jm/News/news_cez_expanded.php http://www.miic.gov.jm/News/news_jampro_niche_products.php ]]> The Jamaica Promotions Corporation (JAMPRO) will this year be focusing its export promotion efforts on marketing niche products and on penetrating new markets. Opening the 2010/11 Sectoral Debate in Gordon House, on May 11, Minister of Industry, Investment and Commerce, Hon, Karl Samuda, noted that during the last financial year, the economic downturn adversely affected demand for goods and services, resulting in a 30 per cent decline in global trade. However, he said that despite a 40 per cent decrease in Jamaica’s non-traditional exports, there was an increase in the export of niche products. The export of non-traditional food items increased in 2009, from US$118.7 million to US$119.5 million. In particular, cakes rose to US$13.6 million; baked products increased to US$10.8 million; and other fruits and fruit preparations grew to US$6.2 million. In addition, beverages and tobacco (excluding rum) increased by US$3.5 million, relative to 2008. Fri, 14 May 2010 12:56:00 EST http://www.miic.gov.jm/News/news_jampro_niche_products.php http://www.miic.gov.jm/News/news_ja_poised_for_global_ict.php ]]> Minister of Industry, Investment and Commerce, Hon. Karl Samuda, has said that Jamaica is strategically poised to tap into the lucrative benefits accruing from developments in the global Information and Communications Technology (ICT) industry. Opening the 2010/11 Sectoral Debate at Gordon House on May 11, the Minister noted that Jamaica, and in particular, Montego Bay, is a “blue-chip ICT investment destination.” “The ICT world is lining up to do business in Montego Bay, and they are doing so, not out of sentiment or because they love our white sand beaches and beautiful sunshine. They are coming to invest in Jamaica, because they recognise that we have the necessary policies and regulations, as well as the institutional capacity to ensure the growth and development of one of the fastest growing sectors in the world,” Mr. Samuda said. He pointed out that the Government’s strategy for attracting investments in the ICT sector is “paying off.” Fri, 14 May 2010 12:31:00 EST http://www.miic.gov.jm/News/news_ja_poised_for_global_ict.php http://www.miic.gov.jm/News/news_rural_employment_project_young.php ]]> The Rural Youth Employment Project, an initiative of the Scientific Research Council (SRC) and the Planning Institute of Jamaica (PIOJ), will be seeking to reduce rural youth unemployment in the parishes of St. Thomas, Trelawny and Manchester. Minister of Industry, Investment and Commerce, Hon. Karl Samuda, explained that the project aims to reduce rural youth unemployment by increasing access to sustainable livelihood options. “This will be achieved through the provision of skills training and increased access to post-harvest and agro-processing facilities. Through the project, young persons will have, in addition to important life skills, the necessary skills to identify and access opportunities for engaging in other businesses along the agriculture value chain,” Mr. Samuda said. Fri, 14 May 2010 12:14:00 EST http://www.miic.gov.jm/News/news_rural_employment_project_young.php http://www.miic.gov.jm/News/news_biz_reg_streamlined.php ]]> In an effort to streamline the business registration process, Government is developing a ‘Super-Form’ which will capture information required by all agencies involved in the business approval process, once a business is registered with the Companies Office of Jamaica (COJ). Government is also moving to have business registrations done online by the end of this fiscal year. This was announced by Minister of Industry, Investment and Commerce, Karl Samuda as he made his presentation in the Sectoral Debate at Gordon House today (May 11th, ) The Super Form will be administered by the Companies Office, which will be the single interface between the public and the agencies – HEART/NTA; NIS; NHT and the Tax Office. It is expected to considerably cut through much of the physical and bureaucratic hurdle that the business registration process now entails. Wed, 12 May 2010 12:36:00 EST http://www.miic.gov.jm/News/news_biz_reg_streamlined.php http://www.miic.gov.jm/News/news_record_financing_micro_sector.php ]]> A record allocation of $750-million is being made available for on-lending to the country’s micro enterprise this year, as Government re-doubles its efforts to fuel growth and development through this important sector. Minister of Industry, Investment and Commerce, Karl Samuda who made this announcement in Parliament Tuesday May 11, noted that this is the largest loan allocation ever made to the Micro sector to date, and reflects Government’s commitment and resolve “to provide more resources to assist the small man.”  Making his contribution to the Sectoral Debate, Minister Samuda said the $750-million loan allocation to the micro sector will be disbursed through institutions such as Jamaica National, Nation Growth and Access Financial Services. “This means that institutions that lend to the micro sector…will be able to access more funds and provide hope for thousands,” he emphasized. Wed, 12 May 2010 12:23:00 EST http://www.miic.gov.jm/News/news_record_financing_micro_sector.php http://www.miic.gov.jm/News/news_lemon_grass_stimulating_employment.php ]]> At least 200 farmers have signalled their commitment to cultivate over 986 acres of lemon grass, based on initiatives being taken by the Scientific Research Council (SRC) to demonstrate the product’s versatility and to establish a lemon grass industry. Making his contribution to the Sectoral Debate in Parliament today, Minister of Industry, Investment and Commerce, Karl Samuda said the SRC’s initiative to create value-added products from lemon grass is an important effort to stimulate employment opportunities along the value chain. The SRC, as part of its overall efforts to showcase the potential of essential oils from local plants, has been using lemon grass as a model to show the versatility of under-utilized aromatic plants locally. Already some 32 food and personal care formulations have been sold to Micro, Small and Medium sized enterprises (MSMEs). Wed, 12 May 2010 12:05:00 EST http://www.miic.gov.jm/News/news_lemon_grass_stimulating_employment.php http://www.miic.gov.jm/News/news_scrap_metal_trade_stopped.php ]]> Effective this Wednesday April 28, 2010 the export of scrap metal, including copper, has been prohibited. The only exception will be manufacturing companies which generate their own scrap metals, and which must submit proof of this to the Customs Department. Minister of Industry, Investment and Commerce, Karl Samuda told a conference this morning that scrap metals in containers already on the Port prior to April 28th will be allowed to be exported. Other containers, already packed, must be unpacked, inspected and re-packed by a special team consisting of the Police, Customs and stakeholders. This exercise will be completed by Friday of this week. Outlining these measures as part of arrangements to affect the Scrap Metal Trade, Minister Samuda said the decision comes against the background of the persistent theft of the island’s metal infrastructure which is being channeled into the scrap metal trade. Mr. Samuda said the latest incidents of copper wire theft from the Colbeck Pumping Station in St. Catherine as well as the widespread vandalism of the Monymusk Sugar Estate pump house have left hundreds of farmers without water for their crops. Tue, 27 Apr 2010 10:19:00 EST http://www.miic.gov.jm/News/news_scrap_metal_trade_stopped.php http://www.miic.gov.jm/News/news_msme_hold_strain.php ]]> Minister of Industry, Investment and Commerce, Hon. Karl Samuda, is imploring entrepreneurs in the small business sector to continue to hold strain and have confidence that the economy will begin to thrive. "It's difficult, but I just want to encourage you to feel confident not only in your ability to play your part and to grow your business, but to have confidence in your country. These difficult times will pass, and when they do, we are hoping as an administration to establish our economy on a real sustainable footing," Mr. Samuda said at the meeting of the Micro Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) Alliance on March 24. He told entrepreneurs, who attended the meeting held at Jamaica Trade and Invest's (JTI) Trafalgar Road headquarters that the government will not be pursuing a policy, "where we make things easy today by accumulating debt, but tomorrow the next generation has to pay for it and we suffer." Noting that this type of policy is unsustainable, he stated that emphasis will be placed on productive enterprises, as the government seeks to regenerate a culture of industriousness."We have to try and encourage those in the productive sector to help us to work our way out of this. Those days of easy money, quite frankly, are over. It is over for the banks and it’s over for those customers who sit back and reap great dividends and do nothing," he stated. Mon, 12 Apr 2010 12:10:00 EST http://www.miic.gov.jm/News/news_msme_hold_strain.php http://www.miic.gov.jm/News/news_msme_govt_budget_support.php ]]> The Micro, Small and Medium-size Enterprises (MSME) Alliance is to receive $500,000 in budget support, as the Government continues to provide assistance for the sector. Minister of Industry, Investment and Commerce, Hon. Karl Samuda gave the commitment on March 24 at the third annual general meeting of the group held at Jamaica Trade and Invest's Trafalgar Road headquarters. He explained that the money is to go towards helping the Alliance clear up a $467, 324 shortfall in its budget. "If you're relieved of the pressure of this deficit, you should start to move up...we will give you $500,000 this year to close that off," he stated. President of the Alliance, Professor Rosalea Hamilton, informed that the group has sought to address one of the core problems facing small businesses, that of access to financing, by participating in the Enterprise-wide risk Management and Financing programme, funded by the Inter-American Development Bank (IDB). Mon, 12 Apr 2010 11:43:00 EST http://www.miic.gov.jm/News/news_msme_govt_budget_support.php http://www.miic.gov.jm/News/news_jbdc_assisting_community_groups_indigenous_products.php ]]> For almost two years, the Jamaica Business Development Corporation (JBDC), through its Product Development initiative, has been assisting several community groups with technical support to improve the quality of indigenous items they produce. This initiative, funded by the Inter-American Development Bank (IDB), also involves the introduction of new items to the range of products manufactured by these groups. Noting that “a lot of good work” is taking place under the project, Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the JBDC, Valerie Veira, said that the agency has worked with several community groups, such as the Maroons at Flagstaff, St. James. “We have done work with them…looking at what they have, and how we can refine it. And (there are) other communities, where we are actually looking at production and seeing how we can help them,” Miss Veira notes. Mon, 12 Apr 2010 11:34:00 EST http://www.miic.gov.jm/News/news_jbdc_assisting_community_groups_indigenous_products.php http://www.miic.gov.jm/News/news_dac.php ]]> A second batch of Parish Council representatives were briefed on the functions and structure of the new Development Assistance Centre (DAC) being implemented in the National Environment and Planning Agency (NEPA), to improve the turnaround time for building applications.  Minister of State in the Ministry of Industry, Investment and Commerce, Hon. Michael Stern, told those gathered at Jamaica House for the second sensitisation presentation, that the DAC could ultimately help to bring a number of investments into the country. “In my Ministry, we have to deal with, on a regular basis, local and overseas investors who question the amount of time it takes to process an application,” he said. Mr. Stern added that the turnaround time for planning applications in Jamaica is still not on par with international standards, and the implementation of DAC is one way in which this could be addressed. Mon, 12 Apr 2010 11:25:00 EST http://www.miic.gov.jm/News/news_dac.php http://www.miic.gov.jm/News/news_project_enhance_business_competition.php ]]> The Ministry of Industry, Investment and Commerce, is set to begin a project aimed at enhancing competition in the Jamaican economy in April. The 2010/11 Estimates of Expenditure, now before the House of Representatives has revealed that $8.5 million has been earmarked for the Capacity Building in the Enforcement of Competition Law in Jamaica project. It is expected to improve the technical skills of the Fair Trading Commission (FTC) staff to carry out investigations, as well as enhance the ability of commissioners to assess or adjudicate matters dealing with competition. It will also increase the compliance of Jamaican businesses as a consequence of the building of a competitive culture; and create a more competitive economic environment, which will benefit both businesses and consumers. Mon, 12 Apr 2010 11:10:00 EST http://www.miic.gov.jm/News/news_project_enhance_business_competition.php http://www.miic.gov.jm/News/news_samuda_defends_slag_cement.php ]]> Minister of Industry, Investment and Commerce, Hon. Karl Samuda, has refuted claims by Caribbean Cement Company Limited (CCCL) that a waiver on 65,000 tonnes of slag cement, imported by TankWeld Metals, would cost the Government some $100 million in duties. "People are not bound to bring in anything into this country. They bring it in if it makes a profit. If we impose a tariff that makes it uncompetitive and uneconomical to import, it will not be imported and there will be no taxes collected," Mr. Samuda told a press briefing at his Ministry's New Kingston offices Thursday, March 15. The Minister stressed that the focus cannot only be on the ability to produce cement, but also to supply in quantities that enable protection against shortages, especially where it affects crucial industries such as construction. "We have seen what has happened in the past, when we did not have adequate supplies of cement. We scrambled to get adequate supplies into the country in order to keep the construction industry going," he explained. Fri, 19 Mar 2010 14:42:00 EST http://www.miic.gov.jm/News/news_samuda_defends_slag_cement.php http://www.miic.gov.jm/News/news_guyana_rice_price_increase.php ]]> Over the next month, Jamaica will begin paying 10 per cent more for rice from Guyana, resulting in a minimum 10 to12 per cent increase to consumers on the local market. This was stated by Minister of Industry, Investment and Commerce, Hon. Karl Samuda, at a press conference at the Ministry, in New Kingston on March 17. The Minister explained that the price increase is due mainly to the El Nino phenomenon, a weather type, which adversely affects weather patterns around the world, and is expected to cause reduced crop production, due to little or no rainfall. El Niño-Southern Oscillation, often called simply ENSO, is a climate pattern that occurs across the tropical Pacific Ocean on average every five years. It is best known for its association with floods, droughts and other weather disturbances in many regions of the world, which vary with each event. Developing countries dependent on agriculture and fishing are usually the most affected. Fri, 19 Mar 2010 14:25:00 EST http://www.miic.gov.jm/News/news_guyana_rice_price_increase.php http://www.miic.gov.jm/News/news_expo2010_ja_manuf.php ]]> Local manufacturers will get a chance to market their goods and services, and network with international buyers at EXPO Jamaica 2010, which will be held from June 17 to 20 at the National Arena in Kingston. The biennial event, hailed as the Caribbean’s premiere trade show, is being staged under the theme: ‘Brand Jamaica to the World!’ and will feature more than 2,000 Jamaican products and over 200 booths. The Expo is being co-hosted by the Jamaica Manufacturers’ Association (JMA), Jamaica Exporters’ Association (JEA) and the Jamaica Trade and Invest (JTI). At the media launch held today (March 16) at the JMA’s office downtown Kingston, Minister of Industry, Investment and Commerce, Hon. Karl Samuda, commended the organisers of the trade show, noting that it provides the opportunity to showcase the best of Jamaica’s manufacturing sector to the world. Wed, 17 Mar 2010 18:57:00 EST http://www.miic.gov.jm/News/news_expo2010_ja_manuf.php http://www.miic.gov.jm/News/news_carib_food_drink_uk_culinary_tour.php ]]> A unique programme to take Caribbean food and drink on a culinary tour across the United Kingdom (UK), was launched in London on March 9th, at a special ceremony, held at the Jamaican High Commission. Chief executive officer of World Foods and founder of the event, Mr. Derek Morris, said that the initiative, which was started in the summer of 2009, features cooking demonstrations and the sampling of a range of Jamaican and Caribbean foods. The event is hosted on the compound of branches of four of the major supermarket chains in the UK. The event is also held at selected high streets across London, Birmingham and Manchester. “Last year it was a wonderful success. Eighty per cent of the people who sampled and visited the trailer were not of Caribbean heritage, so we’re helping to introduce people to Caribbean goods and taste,” Mr. Morris said. Wed, 17 Mar 2010 18:46:00 EST http://www.miic.gov.jm/News/news_carib_food_drink_uk_culinary_tour.php http://www.miic.gov.jm/News/news_consumer_day_2010.php ]]> Jamaica joins over 200 countries worldwide in observing World Consumer Rights Day – today, Monday March 15th. This year’s theme “Our money, our rights,” focuses primarily on consumer-related issues in the financial sector. In a message marking the Day, Minister of Industry, Investment and Commerce, Karl Samuda said the Consumer Affairs Commission stands ready to help Jamaicans understand their rights and obligations when accessing products and services in the banking and credit sector, in order to make informed decisions. “An informed consumer will more likely raise appropriate questions about penalty fees for paying off loans early; issues regarding mortgage rates; and security matters such as prevention of identity theft”, the Minister asserted. He noted that hidden bank charges and exorbitant interest rates are some of the practices that flourish in an environment of inadequate information. Mon, 15 Mar 2010 11:14:00 EST http://www.miic.gov.jm/News/news_consumer_day_2010.php http://www.miic.gov.jm/News/news_msme_biz_opps.php ]]> There are viable business opportunities to be derived by local micro, small and medium-sized enterprise (MSME) stakeholders, from the prevailing global economic recession. This has been emphasised by chief executive officer (CEO) of the Jamaica Business Development Corporation (JBDC), Ms. Valerie Veira. “We (JBDC) recognise that there will be many gaps within local markets to fill, because things won’t be imported in quantities, as was the case previously. Hence, we must see where these gaps are and how our small producers can fill those, and maximise on them,” the CEO says. To this end, she explains that the JDBC, the agency of the Ministry of Industry, Investment and Commerce, responsible for guiding MSME sector development, will be seeking to tailor and position its activities and programmes accordingly, for the 2010/11 administrative year. She cites the Ministries of Agriculture and Fisheries, and Tourism, as two of those whose activities the JBDC’s work programme will primarily seek to mirror, during the year. Mon, 11 Mar 2010 11:17:00 EST http://www.miic.gov.jm/News/news_msme_biz_opps.php http://www.miic.gov.jm/News/news_ja_bold_new_sme_showcase.php ]]> A programme to recognise and highlight recently established small businesses and provide them with necessary publicity and support to enhance their operations, was launched on March 2 at the Knutsford Court Hotel in New Kingston. A partnership between the Jamaica Manufacturers’ Association (JMA) and Continental Baking Company Limited (National Baking), the initiative dubbed: ‘The Bold Ones: New Champions of Manufacturing’ will focus on new and successful businesses that have displayed excellence in their products, having met several criteria in the process. These include, but are not limited to, being in business for less than seven years; employing five or more persons; is tax compliant; and uses indigenous resources in their production. Mon, 11 Mar 2010 10:59:00 EST http://www.miic.gov.jm/News/news_ja_bold_new_sme_showcase.php http://www.miic.gov.jm/News/news_stern_endorses_biz_directory.php ]]> Minister of State in the Ministry of Industry, Investment and Commerce, Hon. Michael Stern, has commended the Manchester Chamber of Commerce for producing a business directory, describing it as a tool for economic development. The Minister, who was addressing the launch of the book, at the Golf View Hotel, recently, noted that the contents of the publication dealing with skills in the parish, business opportunities, the listing of Government agencies, and other organisations offering different services, are of great importance to the business community. “When you look at the information in this book, it is a tool to get your products out there, and the potential for this magazine is great. And in the next few years, every business person will want to use it as a tool. The vision of having a book like this means well for the business community,” he said. Mon, 11 Mar 2010 10:46:00 EST http://www.miic.gov.jm/News/news_stern_endorses_biz_directory.php http://www.miic.gov.jm/News/news_ja_reopens_canadian_offices.php ]]> Jampro, formerly Jamaica Trade and Invest, has re-opened its office in Canada after a five-and-a-half-year absence. The office, managed by regional manager, Robert Kerr and with support from senior consulting officer, Nardia McKenzie, will service all of North America and is situated at the Jamaican Consulate General in Toronto. According to Minister of Industry, Investment and Commerce, Hon. Karl Samuda, the re-opening of the North American office and the London division two years ago, will serve to re-engage Jampro internationally. “Jampro will be seeking to promote and introduce Jamaican products to potential buyers and also to try to encourage Canadian businesses to look at Jamaica favourably as a location to invest, especially as far as the Jamaican Diaspora is concerned,” he said. Mon, 11 Mar 2010 10:36:00 EST http://www.miic.gov.jm/News/news_ja_reopens_canadian_offices.php http://www.miic.gov.jm/News/news_seminars_forums_march_15.php ]]> Several activities, including seminars, forums and exhibitions will be staged islandwide on March 15, in observance of World Consumer Rights Day (WCRD), under the theme: ‘Our Money, Our Rights’. Highlighting the events at a recent JIS ‘Think Tank’, chief executive officer (CEO) of the Consumer Affairs Commission (CAC), Ms. Dolsie Allen, said that the annual observance provided the opportunity to focus on, and solidify the national and international consumer movement. Observance of the day, she added, seeks to highlight the rights of consumers; lobby support for those rights to be respected and protected and provides a forum for exposing the market abuses and social injustices, which undermine those rights. “This year’s theme is quite timely and fitting in light of the recent financial crisis that we have been experiencing globally,” she said. Mon, 11 Mar 2010 10:24:00 EST http://www.miic.gov.jm/News/news_seminars_forums_march_15.php http://www.miic.gov.jm/News/news_jbdc_small_biz.php ]]> The Jamaica Business Development Corporation (JBDC) will now assume full responsibility for all micro and small business activity, as Government moves to streamline the small business sector. Making this announcement in Parliament yesterday, Minister of Industry, Investment and Commerce, Karl Samuda said operations of the Micro Investment Development Agency, (MIDA) and all small business activity previously managed by JAMPRO will be incorporated into the JBDC. Outlining Government’s measures to stimulate business and spur economic recovery, Minister Samuda asserted that the small business sector represents “one of the most important recovery tools” because of its capacity to create jobs at the cheapest possible price.  The Industry Minister pointed out that craft manufacturing holds great potential for the future of Jamaica’s small business sector, but that there’s need for training. In this regard, the Minister said, he will be part of the Prime Minister’s official delegation to China, and will seek technical assistance and training for Jamaica’s indigenous craftsmen in the “finer points, so that their products are not simply eye-catching but are of international standard.” Thu, 28 Jan 2010 20:00:00 EST http://www.miic.gov.jm/News/news_jbdc_small_biz.php http://www.miic.gov.jm/News/news_stern_research_growth.php ]]> Minister of State in the Ministry of Industry, Investment and Commerce, Hon. Michael Stern, says that the Government has remained committed to stimulating a culture of research to improve the nation's health, as well as its ability to generate investments and jobs. Mr. Stern said that the practical use of science, technology and innovation would be crucial to the success of this policy. "As Jamaica grapples with the challenges in the global market place, we are intensifying our efforts towards meaningful and sustained growth through research and development," he said. The junior minister was the main speaker at the Caribbean Young Scientists and Technologists Conference at the Sunset Jamaica Grande Resort in Ocho Rios, January 20-22. It was hosted by the University of Technology (UTech). Mr. Stern, speaking at the opening session on Wednesday, January 20, thanked UTech for hosting the conference, which sought to promote and increase the numbers of "young, brilliant, internationally competitive scientists." Thu, 28 Jan 2010 19:40:00 EST http://www.miic.gov.jm/News/news_stern_research_growth.php http://www.miic.gov.jm/News/news_fcj_floats_loan.php ]]> Factories Corporation of Jamaica (FCJ) is to float a $1.6-billion bond to finance construction of some 200-thousand sq.ft. of ICT space, using as collateral existing Government real estate and rentals earned to service the bond. This was announced in Parliament yesterday by the Minister of Industry, Investment and Commerce, Karl Samuda as he outlined a programme to create jobs and boost production, through the expansion of the small business sector and the conversion of factory space from warehousing to manufacturing. The Minister noted that only 50% of rented Factories Corporation/Free Zone space is now being used for manufacturing purposes. To shift the focus from warehousing to job creation, he said Government will be divesting some $4-billion in real estate. Proceeds from these sales will be used to build new factories on Government-owned lands, thereby multiplying the job creation effect. Thu, 28 Jan 2010 19:12:00 EST http://www.miic.gov.jm/News/news_fcj_floats_loan.php http://www.miic.gov.jm/News/news_jifsc.php ]]> Government has identified consultants to design the legal framework for Jamaica’s proposed offshore banking centre, the International Financial Services Centre (IFSC), and plans are well advanced in the process of determining the model the country will adopt. Addressing Parliament yesterday, Minister of Industry, Investment and Commerce Karl Samuda said the proposed IFSC “offers the greatest opportunity for Jamaica right now” because of its “potential of putting over US$500-million per annum into our economy.” The Minister provided this update to Parliament as he outlined some of Government’s initiatives to stimulate business and achieve economic recovery. He said the proposed IFSC “offers a great opportunity to Jamaica”, noting that his Ministry will be working with the Ministry of Finance to achieve its successful establishment. Thu, 28 Jan 2010 18:50:00 EST http://www.miic.gov.jm/News/news_jifsc.php http://www.miic.gov.jm/News/news_china_expo_shanghai.php ]]> Exporters of quality Brand Jamaica products are being encouraged to participate in what is expected to be the largest trade expo in world history, Expo Shanghai 2010, scheduled for Shanghai, China, May 1 to October 31. National Coordinator for the event and manager of Jamaica Trade and Invest's (JTI) Caribbean, Latin America and Emerging Markets Regional Office, Dr. Dana Morris, says the expo represents a tremendous opportunity for Jamaicans to tap into one of the largest and most affluent markets in the world. Jamaica's participation in Expo Shanghai 2010 is an inter-ministerial effort involving the Ministry of Industry, Investment and Commerce, Ministry of Youth, Culture and Sports, Ministry of Tourism (Jamaica Tourist Board) and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Foreign Trade. To inform local exporters of the significant business opportunities that exist in China, the world's fastest growing economy, representatives from JTI and Jamaica Promotions Corporation (JAMPRO) hosted a Business Information Forum at the JTI offices, Trafalgar Road, Kingston, on January 13, 2010. Mon, 18 Jan 2010 16:00:00 EST http://www.miic.gov.jm/News/news_china_expo_shanghai.php http://www.miic.gov.jm/News/news_measures_clear_wharves.php ]]> In an effort to ease the congestion on the country’s wharves, Minister of Industry, Investment and Commerce Karl Samuda has directed the Trade Board to issue the necessary licences to facilitate clearance of nearly 300 over-aged and damaged vehicles within the next six weeks. The Minister emphasized that this a ‘one-off’ measure expected to improve the wharves’ efficiencies once the 159 damaged and 137 over-aged motor vehicles are removed. Mr. Samuda told a Press Conference at his offices this morning that the same ‘one-off’ consideration is being applied to over 6000 used tyres currently on the wharves. Accordingly, he has instructed that these be cleared, subject to appropriate Bureau of Standards inspection and compliance. He said normal Custom duties will apply in each case, and that consideration will be given to vehicles and tyres which were en route prior to today’s announcement. Mr. Samuda pointed out that once the wharves have been cleared, Government will revert to the rigid application of the rules and regulations governing the importation of motor vehicles. Wed, 23 Dec 2009 16:35:00 EST http://www.miic.gov.jm/News/news_measures_clear_wharves.php http://www.miic.gov.jm/News/news_reduced_chicken_prices.php ]]> Consumers islandwide will benefit from a 19% - 20% reduction in the price of chicken parts (leg and breast quarters) between December 18 and 24, as Government moves to ensure that the society’s most vulnerable are provided with a cheaper source of protein during the Christmas period. Making this announcement at a joint press conference held at Jamaica House today, Minister of Industry, Investment and Commerce, Karl Samuda and the Minister of Agriculture, Christopher Tufton said 250-thousand kg. of chicken parts have been earmarked for distribution islandwide at a concessionary price to consumers. Minister Samuda explained that the concessionary price follows discussions between both Ministries and the two main processors – Jamaica Broilers and Caribbean Broilers. He said the processors indicated that they have adequate supplies to meet the increased demand for chicken meat during the Christmas season. Tue, 15 Dec 2009 17:31:00 EST http://www.miic.gov.jm/News/news_reduced_chicken_prices.php http://www.miic.gov.jm/News/news_ip_sme_credit.php ]]> Minister of Industry, Investment and Commerce Karl Samuda is urging lending institutions to take into consideration “the valuable factor of Intellectual Property” when assessing the credit-worthiness of entrepreneurs and investors in the Small and Medium Enterprise (SME) sector. Addressing this morning’s opening session of a one-day CARICOM and Latin American Forum on “Access to Credit and Financing for SMEs,” Minister Samuda pointed to the difficulties faced by small business owners in accessing credit, even in the face of Government’s efforts to provide adequate loan financing for that sector. He told the Regional delegates that financial entities insist that SMEs provide adequate fiscal collateral when seeking loans, and pointed out that “most of the Region’s talented people do not have hard collateral.” That is why “we’ve sought to encourage institutions to value the most important asset – intellectual property – as part of the consideration when creating a portfolio for a potential investor,” the Minister said. Fri, 11 Dec 2009 16:10:00 EST http://www.miic.gov.jm/News/news_ip_sme_credit.php http://www.miic.gov.jm/News/news_collaborate_regional_success.php ]]> Minister of Industry, Investment and Commerce Karl Samuda has cautioned CARICOM countries against looking inward as a community, emphasizing that if there’s a chance for regional success, countries must adopt a broad-based, participatory, cohesive and collaborative approach. “It cannot be that one country individually does well, but the rest of the region suffers because they have not caught up, and there’s no mechanism in place to ensure that the success achieved by one (CARICOM) member state is passed on to the other member states” the Minister asserted as he addressed the opening session of a CARICOM and Latin American Forum on “Access to Credit and Financing for SMEs” yesterday. Against this background the Minister has called on the CARICOM Secretariat to establish a monitoring mechanism that will hold each member country accountable to report on infrastructural development within the Small and Medium Enterprise (SME) sector, particularly as it relates to accessing resources available to the region. Fri, 11 Dec 2009 16:06:00 EST http://www.miic.gov.jm/News/news_collaborate_regional_success.php http://www.miic.gov.jm/News/news_need_protection.php ]]> Minister of State in the Ministry of Industry, Investment and Commerce, Hon. Michael Stern, has said that in the new global economic environment, more emphasis has to be placed on protecting consumers. “With the liberalisation of markets globally, privatisation of government services, increased Internet usage and developments in new technologies, consumers need to be properly protected in the market,” the State Minister said. He was speaking at the launch of the ‘Promotion of Consumer Protection Project in the Caribbean’, on November 25, at the Knutsford Court Hotel, in Kingston. Mr. Stern argued that in order to effectively protect consumers, there should be increased focus on the efficient enforcement of existing legislation; the suitability of credit products and the role of credit intermediaries; and pre-contractual information about credit products in a standardised, comparable format, in clear and simple language. Wed, 09 Dec 2009 12:35:00 EST http://www.miic.gov.jm/News/news_need_protection.php http://www.miic.gov.jm/News/news_regional_govts_critical_role_ict_growth.php ]]> Governments in the region have a critical role to play in providing an appropriate environment for the development and growth of the Information and Communication Technologies (ICT) sector, says Minster of State in the Ministry of Industry, Investment and Commerce, Hon. Michael Stern. “This is particularly important at this time when governments throughout the Caribbean are increasingly recognising the significant benefits of broadband to our business communities, and economies,” Mr. Stern said. He also pointed out that these benefits include the ability to expand economic opportunities and innovation, increase trade and productivity, reduce business costs, create jobs and encourage foreign investments. The Minister was speaking on November 25 at the seventh Caribbean Internet Forum, at the Knutsford Court Hotel, New Kingston. Wed, 09 Dec 2009 12:07:00 EST http://www.miic.gov.jm/News/news_regional_govts_critical_role_ict_growth.php http://www.miic.gov.jm/News/news_samuda_public_private_sector_collaboration.php ]]> Minister of Industry, Investment and Commerce, the Hon. Karl Samuda, has suggested a collaborative and coordinated approach by the public and private sectors for the success of the National Export Strategy (NES). Addressing the opening session of the NES Resource Mobilisation Forum, at Jamaica Trade and Invest (JTI), New Kingston, on November 19, Mr. Samuda said that the strategy has touched the nerve of the problems and identified solutions, but needs cohesion and collaboration between the private and public sectors to succeed. He said that this collaborative approach should include identifying methods of taking advantage of the assets which the country boasts, and facilitating the business community, particularly manufacturing, in terms of the things that are needed to export and earn foreign exchange. "We have not been able to adopt a sufficiently coordinated approach to dealing with the challenges that face us, in getting things done as quickly as possible," he admitted. Mon, 30 Nov 2009 19:07:00 EST http://www.miic.gov.jm/News/news_samuda_public_private_sector_collaboration.php http://www.miic.gov.jm/News/news_bsj_approves_local_juice_formula.php ]]> The Bureau of Standards Jamaica (BSJ) has approved a juice blend developed by the St. Elizabeth-based Jamaica Exotic Flavours, which will enable the company to shortly begin supplying natural juices for the National School Feeding Programme. “We have developed a product for the National School Feeding Programme, where some 136,000 lunches will be served to children,” said managing director of the company, Mr. Anthony Freckleton, at an agricultural expo held on November 19, at the Sharon Baptist Church in Santa Cruz. Mr. Freckleton told the gathering that he and his team spent three years working on the melon blend, which will be supplied to schools and local distributors. “Thirty (30) per cent of melon has been allowed to rot over the years in the fields but now, not only will the children be getting a nutritious drink, but before Christmas, in partnership with the beverage companies, we will be replacing the imported products on our shelves, with our wholesome products of fruits and vegetables,” he said. Mon, 30 Nov 2009 18:30:00 EST http://www.miic.gov.jm/News/news_bsj_approves_local_juice_formula.php http://www.miic.gov.jm/News/news_small_biz_europe_campaign.php ]]> Minister of Industry, Investment and Commerce, Hon. Karl Samuda, has said that next January, the Government will be embarking on a marketing campaign in Europe on behalf of the small business sector. The Jamaica Marketing Company (JAMCo), based in London, England, which he explained had been "lying dormant" for many years, will be driving the campaign. Speaking at the opening ceremony of a Buyer's Trade Fair, jointly hosted by the Jamaica Fashion and Apparel Cluster and the Authentic Jamaican Gift and Craft Cluster, at the Jamaica Pegasus Hotel, New Kingston on November 17, the Minister said the marketing assistance was essential for small businesses to compete overseas. "You need money, you can't individually collect enough money to go out and market your own products by yourself. What we need to do is, we need to trod the pavements of Europe and North America. We need to create a virtual army of Jamaican representatives out there selling Jamaican products," he emphasised. Mr. Samuda explained that these persons would be sent to Europe to be the "eyes and ears" of the sectors, to be their sales representatives and to open doors for them. Fri, 20 Nov 2009 15:49:00 EST http://www.miic.gov.jm/News/news_small_biz_europe_campaign.php http://www.miic.gov.jm/News/news_yes_invest.php ]]> The Scientific Research Council (SRC) has moved to position the nutraceutical industry as a viable business option for current and prospective entrepreneurs, as well as a platform to promote and advance healthy lifestyles in Jamaica. The Council, on November 3), launched its YES INVEST initiative at the Devonshire Restaurant, Devon House, St. Andrew, which aims to introduce and generate entrepreneurial interest at various levels, in the nutraceutical industry. Nutraceutical is any naturally developed food supplement or product from which the body can benefit significantly. In outlining the project, the SRC’s Executive Director, Dr. Audia Barnett, explained that the initiative resulted from an Organization of American States (OAS)/Government of Jamaica-funded research, which the agency conducted on nutraceuticals some six years. “We wanted to establish a nutraceuticals industry in Jamaica, mainly because, when you looked at world trends, you saw the fantastic growth of nutraceuticals. We felt that Jamaica was ideally placed, and we have a wide diversity of plants. At the time, we wanted to look at plants already in the public domain so we looked at sorrel, lemon grass, turmeric, ginger and rosemary, (and) we found some fantastic facts about our own local products,” she stated. Fri, 20 Nov 2009 14:47:00 EST http://www.miic.gov.jm/News/news_yes_invest.php http://www.miic.gov.jm/News/news_jamaica_geo_id_products.php ]]> The Jamaica Intellectual Property Office (JIPO) and the Swiss Federal Institute of Intellectual Property (IPI), on Thursday (November 5), hosted the first of four workshops on the administration of a proposed Jamaican Geographical Indication (GI) system. The workshops, held at the Knutsford Court Hotel, New Kingston, sought to sensitise stakeholders, who will be directly involved in formulating the system, about some of the legal processes, technical procedures and other aspects of preparing the structure. One of the workshops was geared specifically to employees of the Rural Agricultural Development Authority (RADA), who work closely with agricultural producers, and would be the first point of contact for individuals interested in registering their agricultural products as Geographical Indications. A Geographical Indication is a sign used on a product to indicate its specific geographical origin, and is a symbol of the product’s high quality and reputation. The quality and standard of the goods are therefore attributable to their places of origin. The workshops form part of a 2-year joint technical project, the Geographical Indications Project Jamaica-Switzerland (GIJA), between JIPO and the IPI, launched in May, last year. The IPI provides technical assistance to agricultural and non-agricultural producers, to assist in enhancing the protection of the quality of Jamaican goods. Fri, 20 Nov 2009 14:100:00 EST http://www.miic.gov.jm/News/news_jamaica_geo_id_products.php http://www.miic.gov.jm/News/news_jamaica_caricom_cement_protest.php ]]> Jamaica is to write to the CARICOM Secretariat objecting to the Secretariat’s decision to decline its request for a suspension of the tariff on the importation of 120-thousand tonnes of cement. At a press conference this morning Minister of Industry, Investment and Commerce, Karl Samuda also signaled Jamaica’s intention to place the matter on the agenda of the next COTED meeting, and, if necessary, ask the Heads of Government to a re-examine the provisions of the Treaty of Chaguaramas as it relates to Article 29.2 on what constitutes ‘a qualified majority.” Giving a background leading up to the final decision to deny Jamaica’s request, the Minister said that following a conditional suspension granted by the Council for Trade and Economic Development (COTED) at its meeting in Barbados on October 8th, the Secretariat re-opened the issue and again put the matter to CARICOM membership for final approval. Following numerous correspondence since October 8th, only three of the 14 CARICOM member states responded on October 29, with two indicating that they would not support Jamaica’s request for tariff suspension. Citing Article 29.2 of the Revised Treaty of Chaguaramas which requires a three-quarter majority of the 14 member states to overturn a COTED decision, Minister Samuda said Jamaica is well within its rights to question the final decision on the basis of a response by only three member countries. Tue, 10 Nov 2009 18:10:00 EST http://www.miic.gov.jm/News/news_jamaica_caricom_cement_protest.php http://www.miic.gov.jm/News/news_msme_impact_economy.php ]]> Micro, small and medium sized enterprises (MSMEs) are being positioned to make a more significant impact on the Jamaican economy, with a public consultation on policy suggestions for enhancing the sector. The public consultation at the Terra Nova Hotel, Kingston on October 29, saw business leaders, members of academia, civil society and government policymakers exchanging ideas. Speaking on behalf of the Minster of Industry, Investment and Commerce, Hon Karl Samuda, was the Permanent Secretary in the Ministry, Reginald Budhan, who said that MSMEs have a "bright future" despite the current global recession. He said that MSMEs currently account for approximately 80 per cent of the Jamaican workforce, and a policy framework to create a macroeconomic environment that will allow them to emerge, survive and grow was imperative. In the message, Mr. Samuda also acknowledged that capital and training continue to be the main challenges faced by MSMEs. However, he said that the Government was implementing several initiatives to ensure their growth. Among these are the widening of the channels though which they can receive financing; development of their technical and organisational capacity; strengthening of industry organisations that represent them; training of entrepreneurs; and facilitating their entrance into the formal economy. Thu, 05 Nov 2009 15:45:00 EST http://www.miic.gov.jm/News/news_msme_impact_economy.php http://www.miic.gov.jm/News/news_certification_used_car_dealers_resumption.php ]]> Minister of Industry, Investment and Commerce, Hon. Karl Samuda, has reported that the Ministry is resuming the certification of new used car dealers as the special audit of the sector is near completion. "At the time of the audit, I indicated that I did not intend to certify any new players until the audit was complete. The audit is near completion but the data that we have collected is sufficient to enable me to resume the processing of new applicants to the business of used car dealing," the Minister stated. He was speaking at the annual general meeting of the Jamaica Used Car Dealers Association held on October 22 at the Jamaica Pegasus Hotel. He noted that only three applications have been received so far and lamented the fact that 17 used car dealers have left the business, which now has a complement of 133 members, down from 150. The Minister had instructed a suspension of the granting of certification to new businesses to operate as used car dealers, following a meeting with stakeholders in the used car sector, Ministry officials and its Motor Vehicle Committee. Consequently, an audit was ordered in April 2009 based on the recommendation of the Trade Board, which felt that some dealers were not operating in the best interest of the industry, specifically in relation to the importation of over-aged vehicles. Thu, 05 Nov 2009 15:15:00 EST http://www.miic.gov.jm/Newsnews_certification_used_car_dealers_resumption.php/ http://www.miic.gov.jm/News/news_samuda_urges_sb_focus_exports.php ]]> Minister of Industry, Investment and Commerce, the Hon. Karl Samuda, says there is a need for more small businesses in Jamaica to produce goods and services for the export market. "We have never had the sense of urgency to develop businesses in a competitive way. We have seen the need to export in order to survive and, it is against that background, that we have seen a sense of lethargy that has seeped into the very psyche of the young entrepreneur," Mr. Samuda said. He accused small businesses of taking "a kind of subsistence approach", focusing on distribution and retail to make a living, without looking at how critical it is to engage in productive activities that earn foreign exchange. The Minister was speaking at the launch of the book 'Understanding Exporting in the Small and Micro Enterprise', written by Dr. Densil Williams, at the University of the West Indies (UWI), Mona on Tuesday, October 20. Thu, 05 Nov 2009 14:44:00 EST http://www.miic.gov.jm/News/news_samuda_urges_sb_focus_exports.php http://www.miic.gov.jm/News/news_samuda_scrapmetal.php ]]> Minister of Industry, Investment and Commerce, Karl Samuda met today with Police Commissioner Hardley Lewin to begin planning wide-ranging strategies to combat the illegal activities plaguing the scrap metal industry. The widespread theft of metals, including railway lines, bridges, telephone cables and copper wires, has resulted in millions of dollars being lost to both government and the private sector. One communications company reported losses of more than $35-million and service interruption affecting some 5,000 customers, arising from the stealing of the company’s cables. At a recent meeting with members of the Scrap Metal Association, Minister Samuda deplored the re-emergence of the wholesale theft of metals and announced his intention to set up mechanisms to monitor locations engaged in the packaging of scrap metals for export. Wed, 28 Oct 2009 17:11:00 EST http://www.miic.gov.jm/News/news_samuda_scrapmetal.php http://www.miic.gov.jm/News/news_samuda_laments_internet_interest.php ]]> Industry, Investment and Commerce Minister, Hon. Karl Samuda, has underscored the importance of small business stakeholders utilising the Internet in advancing their operations. To this end, he said efforts must be made to facilitate training in the use of this and other information and communications technology (ICT) applications, in order to boost their outputs and, by extension, those of the country.  Speaking at the CoK Co-operative Credit Union Limited’s annual public forum on ‘Small Business and Entrepreneurship - The Way to Survive in a Recessionary Environment’, at the Terra Nova Hotel, Kingston, October 13, Mr. Samuda lamented that only a small percentage of small business stakeholders were aware of the benefits to be derived from utilising the Internet in their operations. “We did a survey of the small business sector at Jamaica Trade and Invest (JTI), and just about 15 per cent, said that they were aware of the benefits that could be derived through the use of the Internet. That has to change,” he asserted. Alluding to a recent trip he made to Canada, the Minister said that upwards of 90 per cent of that country’s population accessed the Internet, noting that “everything they do there is virtual.” He noted that access in Jamaica was nowhere near Canada’s, and stressed the need to engender greater appreciation of the technology from an early age.  “All that we do will come to nothing, unless we get our youngsters, from the basic school level coming right through the primary school level, sufficiently educated and aware of the knowledge of how to use the internet,” Mr. Samuda said. Wed, 28 Oct 2009 16:10:00 EST http://www.miic.gov.jm/News/news_samuda_laments_internet_interest.php http://www.miic.gov.jm/News/news_samuda_manufacturing_creativity.php ]]> Industry, Investment and Commerce Minister, Hon. Karl Samuda, has called for more creativity in the manufacture of products that will give Jamaican brands greater prominence in the global marketplace. He also urged producers of such goods to ensure that they register their products to avoid piracy and earn maximum returns on their investments. Mr. Samuda was speaking at the CoK Co-operative Credit Union Limited’s annual public forum titled: ‘Small Business and Entrepreneurship - The Way to Survive in a Recessionary Environment’, held on October 13, at the Terra Nova Hotel in Kingston. Citing the example of the Chinese, he said that they incorporate the creativity of the populace in the manufacturing of goods for the greater benefit of the country. “They recognise that the real profit, the real returns on that which is produced, does not lie in the manufacturing process alone...it lies in the creativity of the people so they must now design their own products. When they manufacture for Nike or someone else with the intellectual property they, China, get only 12 per cent of the returns. So they now turn their attention to the creativity, the intellectual property that will give them the design, so that they will own the product and the brand, so that they will get maximum returns on their efforts,” the Minister outlined. Wed, 28 Oct 2009 15:42:00 EST http://www.miic.gov.jm/News/news_samuda_manufacturing_creativity.php http://www.miic.gov.jm/News/news_nucs_50.php ]]> The National Union of Co-operative Societies Limited (NUCS), as part of activities to mark its 50th anniversary, staged an exposition at the office of the Department of Co-operatives and Friendly Societies, Kingston, on Thursday, October 8. The exposition was held under the theme, 'Co-operatives.The Way to Go, The Way to Grow', and featured over 20 booths displaying an array of products and services offered by cooperatives, islandwide. Corporate Planner, Policy, Planning, Projects and Research, in the Ministry of Industry, Investment and Commerce, Joan Harris, lauded the society for the role it has been playing over the years. "The success you now boast must be credited to the foresight, vision, initiative hard work and steadfastness of your leaders and members, who now total over 1 million strong," she said. She noted that the development of co-operatives could be used as a vehicle to "breathe life" into rural communities. "Co-operatives empower people, by enabling even the poorest segments of the population to participate in economic progress. They create opportunities for those who have skills but little capital, and they provide protection by organising mutual help in communities," she said. She cited the Christiana Potato Growers Co-operative, as an example of one that has transformed a normal rural district into one with immense opportunities for a vibrant enterprise zone. General Manager at NUCS, Albert Smith, said that the event was largely geared at encouraging participants to become aware of the co-operatives’ role in society. Tue, 20 Oct 2009 11:11:00 EST http://www.miic.gov.jm/News/news_nucs_50.php http://www.miic.gov.jm/News/news_118_bags_contaminated_flour_destroyed.php ]]> The Food Storage and Prevention of Infestation Division (FSPID) of the Ministry of Industry, Investment and Commerce destroyed some 118 bags of bakery flour, weighing just over 3.5 metric tonnes, which were infested with the red flour beetle (Tribolium castaneum), this week. The red flour beetle, which is common in Jamaica, primarily infests processed food items such as rice, flour, cornmeal and cereals. Senior Food Storage Scientist at the FSPID, Tamara Morrison, said that the flour, valued at $424,500, had been procured by a major local food distribution company. It was found to be infested on September 29, the day it was delivered to the entity’s warehouse in Montego Bay from Kingston. He added that infestation, most likely, occurred at the facilities of the supplier. Investigations by the FSPID revealed that the flour was intended for bakeries in western Jamaica. It was to have been stored at the warehouse, from where it should have been distributed. According to Ms. Morrison, the discovery was made on the day of the delivery by the warehouse manager whom, she said, noticed insects on, and tiny holes in, some of the bags. The manager subsequently contacted the FSPID’s Senior Food Storage Inspector in charge of the agency’s western regional office, Montego Bay, Owen Scarlett, who detained the consignment for inspection. Tue, 20 Oct 2009 10:25:00 EST http://www.miic.gov.jm/News/news_118_bags_contaminated_flour_destroyed.php http://www.miic.gov.jm/News/news_stakeholders_develop_rural_communities.php ]]> Minister of Industry, Investment and Commerce, Hon. Karl Samuda, has said that all critical stakeholders must work together, to ensure that the vast potential that exists in rural communities are tapped into and developed. Mr. Samuda, who recently delivered the keynote address at the dedication of a sausage factory in Maggotty, St. Elizabeth, operated by the Catholic Church, stressed that the partnership would help to ensure economic independence for the country.  A health clinic constructed on the same premises by the Catholic Church was also dedicated.  “Rural development is what we must tackle in earnest. It is out here that we have a vast amount of land, it is out here that so many people with equal hopes and aspirations for a great future reside, it is here that we have some of the finest brains, so the quality of life for persons in the rural areas must be improved. And, it can only be improved through the collaborative approach of three crucial sectors - the church, the Government and the private sector,” the Minister argued. The Minister commended the Catholic Church for the project, noting that it would provide employment in the community and purchase products from local producers. Tue, 20 Oct 2009 10:10:00 EST http://www.miic.gov.jm/News/news_stakeholders_develop_rural_communities.php http://www.miic.gov.jm/News/news_scrap_metal_dealers_identify_crooked_traders.php ]]> Scrap metal dealers have been given one month to cooperate with the government in uncovering the source of illegal activities, which have re-surfaced in the industry. Minister of Industry, Investment and Commerce, Hon. Karl Samuda, made the announcement at a press conference at his New Kingston office recently following a meeting with the dealers. He said that certain conclusions were reached at the meeting, and he had “put the industry on notice” to work with the Ministry to monitor the trade, to “determine exactly who within their ranks are engaged in illegal activity (namely) purchasing stolen goods and exporting them”. “They have given an undertaking that they will do everything to support us and work together. I have not applied the big stick of suspending trading at this time. It may have to be if (the theft) continues, or if it escalates. I am hoping it won’t,” he said. According to Mr. Samuda, despite heavy fines and several meetings with stakeholders, wholesale theft of metals has re-emerged, posing a threat to the country’s infrastructure. “We are seeing the Ministry of Transport and Works again reporting that railway lines are being removed and sold, where factories are being affected, where they are coming in to steal primarily those products made of aluminum and copper,” he stated. Tue, 20 Oct 2009 09:53:00 EST http://www.miic.gov.jm/News/news_scrap_metal_dealers_identify_crooked_traders.php http://www.miic.gov.jm/News/news_samuda_bureaucracy_frustrating_enterprises.php ]]> Minister of Industry, Investment and Commerce, Hon. Karl Samuda, has described heavy bureaucracy as a cancer of commerce, impeding development and crippling progress. "It frustrates an entrepreneur and, no matter how much money you have, or how many skills you have, as a young or seasoned business person, if you have to exist in an environment of bureaucratic impediment, you're not going to make it," Mr. Samuda stated. He was addressing a forum at the Hilton Kingston Hotel on Thursday, October 1, on the findings of the joint World Bank/International Finance Corporation (IFC) publication, 'Doing Business 2010: Reforming through Difficult Times'. He said bureaucracy was born of the need to monitor and control, but that the practice was rapidly becoming redundant, as the time has come when government must begin to engage the private sector in a meaningful way, by relieving itself of that burden. "What is the point of spending $1000 to monitor a process that will yield you a savings of $100? It's not good business," Mr. Samuda argued. Fri, 02 Oct 2009 15:49:00 EST http://www.miic.gov.jm/News/news_samuda_bureaucracy_frustrating_enterprises.php http://www.miic.gov.jm/News/news_private_sector_one_voice.php ]]> Minister of Industry, Investment and Commerce, Hon. Karl Samuda, says the private sector needs to speak with one voice, as it seeks to strengthen its partnership with the government, in order to make Jamaica a place of choice to do business. Mr. Samuda was speaking at a panel discussion on the findings of the joint World Bank/International Finance Corporation (IFC) publication, 'Doing Business 2010: Reforming through Difficult Times', held at the Hilton Kingston Hotel, on October 1. "I would like to see the private sector come together, I'd like to see them cut out the petty bickering...I would like to see them understand that we have to work together today more than ever before. This is the only way that the private sector is going to be able to, when we sit together as government and private sector, speak in a manner that the government officials can leave with a feeling that yes, the folks with whom they are speaking understand the issues, and are willing to work together in a collective way," the Minister argued. He emphasised that understanding the issues is critical, and that all private sector leaders must arm themselves with the appropriate information, "so that when we speak, we speak from a basis of knowledge, from a basis of empirical data, and to have a better appreciation of the challenges we face as administrators of the country." Fri, 02 Oct 2009 15:28:00 EST http://www.miic.gov.jm/News/news_private_sector_one_voice.php http://www.miic.gov.jm/News/news_ja_revises_cement_tariff_application.php ]]> Jamaica will revise its application to CARICOM and will now seek a one year suspension of the tariff on 120-thousand tons of cement, in order to guarantee adequate supplies of the product to meet local construction industry demands. Minister of Industry, Investment and Commerce, Karl Samuda told a press conference this morning that Jamaica had originally applied for tariff suspension on the importation of 170-thousand tons, but that this was revised following discussions with local producers Caribbean Cement. He explained that the 120-thousand tons to be imported represent approximately 15% of anticipated domestic market demand; and would allow for continuity and stability within the industry.  Local importers have imported some 129,742 tons of cement since the beginning of this year; while 56,603 tons were exported over the same period. The Industry Minister emphasized that his administration would not tolerate dumping by importers of cement. “Any suggestion of dumping will be investigated by the Anti-Dumping Commission…and if cases are found, then appropriate measures will be taken to protect the local producer,” he stressed.  Thu, 01 Oct 2009 12:06:00 EST http://www.miic.gov.jm/News/news_ja_revises_cement_tariff_application.php http://www.miic.gov.jm/News/news_minister_hotel_sector.php ]]> Minister of Industry, Investment and Commerce, Karl Samuda is to convene a meeting shortly with members of the hotel sector to gain an understanding of their general attitude towards Jamaica’s local industry, and the extent to which they are engaged in the purchase of locally-produced goods. Minister Samuda told a press conference today that his initiative resulted from complaints from local manufacturers that “there’s not sufficient willingness on the part of new players entering the hotel industry to avail themselves of the opportunity to purchase locally-produced goods of high quality, competitively priced,” and for which consistent supplies could be assured. Citing the case of a leading bedding manufacturer, the Minister said he was disturbed that a local player was invited to tender on a job; and had provided mattress samples which were returned in the sealed packages. Mr. Samuda noted that, based on the evidence, it appeared that the products had been rejected, without the benefit of proper inspection and testing. Thu, 01 Oct 2009 11:40:00 EST http://www.miic.gov.jm/News/news_minister_hotel_sector.php http://www.miic.gov.jm/News/news_closer_monitoring_scrap_metal_industry.php ]]> Minister of Industry, Investment and Commerce, Karl Samuda has given members of the Scrap Metal Association one month to use all appropriate measures to determine whether any members are engaged in the illegal activity of purchasing stolen metal for export. In addition, the Minister is to set up mechanisms to monitor locations engaged in the packaging of scrap metals for export. Minister Samuda who made the announcement at a press conference this morning, said the move had become necessary because of the re-emergence of the wholesale theft of metals that threaten the country’s infrastructure. He said railway lines were again being stolen and sold; factories engaged in the production of aluminum and copper products had fallen victim to thieves; and copper wire and telephone cables were being removed and stolen. The Minister said he had held frank discussions with the Scrap Metal Association members, and he had put them on notice that he would be assembling teams to conduct random inspection of their business sites. Thu, 01 Oct 2009 11:32:00 EST http://www.miic.gov.jm/News/news_closer_monitoring_scrap_metal_industry.php http://www.miic.gov.jm/News/news_jti_canadian_filmmakers.php ]]> More than 150 films are shot in Jamaica annually and Jamaica Trade and Invest (JTI), is hoping that Canadian filmmakers will add more to that number. At a media and trade networking reception, held for filmmakers on September 15, at Harlem Restaurant in Toronto, JTI’s Investment Support Services Manager, Robert Kerr said Jamaica was an excellent place to film, and highlighted some of the incentives which are offered through JTI’s Creative Industries Unit. Noting that the Jamaica brand was at an all-time high worldwide, due in part to the “record-breaking performances” of sprinter, Usain Bolt and other Jamaican athletes, Mr. Kerr implored the filmmakers to seriously consider Jamaica, because “it is a fantastic location for filming, and our people and culture reflect bold inspiring energy associated with brand Jamaica.” The event, which was organised by JTI and the Jamaican Consulate in Toronto, and hosted by Canadian actress, Tonya Lee Williams, was held during the staging of the 34th annual Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF). Mon, 28 Sep 2009 15:05:00 EST http://www.miic.gov.jm/News/news_jti_canadian_filmmakers.php http://www.miic.gov.jm/News/news_charities_file_documents.php ]]> The Companies Office of Jamaica (COJ) is urging charitable groups to file outstanding documents to ensure compliance with the Companies Act and to prevent their businesses from being removed from the register. “The issue of removal has serious implications for these companies,” said business registration manager at the COJ, Camille Neil. She noted that most of these companies “have assets whether land, building, or vehicle, which is in the company name and once the company is removed from the register, the company no longer holds these assets.” Miss Neil, further explained that when companies are removed from the COJ’s register, ownership of the assets is held by the government on trust for 20 years, during which time, the company may make an application to be restored to the register. The COJ is currently offering a special three-month amnesty to allow charitable groups to file outstanding documents at reduced fees of between 50 and 75 per cent. Mon, 28 Sep 2009 14:50:00 EST http://www.miic.gov.jm/News/news_charities_file_documents.php http://www.miic.gov.jm/News/news_coj_document_filing.php ]]> The Companies Office of Jamaica (COJ) is moving to streamline its services to make it easier for clients to do certain transactions. COJ’s chief executive officer (CEO) and Registrar, Judith Ramlogan, said that the entity will soon be able to offer clients the option of electronically registering certain documents online. “We are in the midst of upgrading the website so that we can offer to our customers, certain registration services online,” she stated. She said that the online services, which should roll out during the next financial year, or very early in the following year, include the registration of companies and business names, and registration of notice of company secretary and registered office notice. The CEO informed however that the COJ is “in the midst of discussions with certain other government agencies, concerning the registration of new companies,” noting that it is subsequent to these discussions that the COJ will be able to proceed with this online service. Mon, 28 Sep 2009 14:35:00 EST http://www.miic.gov.jm/News/news_coj_document_filing.php http://www.miic.gov.jm/News/news_samuda_unctad_wir_launch.php ]]> Industry, Investment and Commerce Minister, the Hon Karl Samuda, says there is need for an infusion of technology into agriculture, as well as improved packaging and marketing of its products, internationally, if it is to contribute, significantly, to Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) inflows into Jamaica. Mr. Samuda was addressing the launch of the 2009 United Nations Conference on Trade and Development's (UNCTAD) World Investment Report, which focuses on transnational corporations and agricultural production and development, at the office of Jamaica Trade and Invest (JTI), Trafalgar Road, New Kingston, on September 17. He lamented that agriculture has been a "relatively minimal player" in Foreign Direct Investment inflows to Jamaica. He said that the most recent figures indicate that Agriculture contributes a mere US$1 million which, he argued, suggested that sufficient focus has not been given to building its investment capacity. "It can't work if we don't identify our priorities, and one of the things that I think can make us move forward, is to be able to offer to the world the type of perception that Jamaica is a country of quality," Mr. Samuda said. Fri, 18 Sep 2009 13:34:00 EST http://www.miic.gov.jm/News/news_samuda_unctad_wir_launch.php http://www.miic.gov.jm/News/news_samuda_world_investment_report.php ]]> The Ministry of Industry, Investment and Commerce has embarked on an inter-ministerial collaborative initiative, aimed at building partnerships that will pursue investment prospects globally, by promoting Jamaica as an ideal location for doing business. Portfolio Minister, Hon. Karl Samuda, says this new thrust is intended to enhance foreign direct investments (FDIs), thereby boosting the country's foreign exchange earnings. Mr. Samuda outlined details of the initiative while addressing the launch of the 2009 World Investment Report, which focuses on: 'Transnational Corporations, Agricultural Production and Development', at the offices of Jamaica Trade and Invest (JTI), Trafalgar Road, New Kingston, on September 17. Citing the Agriculture and Fisheries Ministry as an example, Mr. Samuda noted that for too long, the real process by which a strong collaboration could be created between that entity and his ministry has not been actualised, pointing out that both are "crucial to any strategy of moving Jamaica forward." "The whole purpose of this collaborative approach is to strengthen the team that goes out in pursuit of new investments, new offerings, what makes Jamaica unique in terms of what we have to offer, and what it is that we can do together to make us the kind of attractive destination that we feel we are," he said. Fri, 18 Sep 2009 13:22:00 EST http://www.miic.gov.jm/News/news_samuda_world_investment_report.php http://www.miic.gov.jm/News/news_quality_standard_manufacturing.php ]]> Minister of Industry, Investment and Commerce, Hon. Karl Samuda, has stressed the importance of adhering to the highest standards of quality in the manufacture of Jamaican products. Mr. Samuda made the comment on September 11, while on a tour of the Jamaica Business Development Corporation’s (JBDC) Garmex Complex and Incubator Resource Centre, located on Marcus Garvey Drive in Kingston, which was opened about a year ago. Mr. Samuda used the tour to update himself on the operations of the centre and to offer advice on how some areas could be improved. He said that while many of the products, especially clothing, were unique and well designed there needed to be more attention to detail. He stressed that “the detail is what makes the difference in the purchaser from overseas buying or rejecting a product.” He urged the staff to ensure that all the entrepreneurs, who are accessing services through the JBDC, adopt a “culture of perfection.” Fri, 18 Sep 2009 13:05:00 EST http://www.miic.gov.jm/News/news_quality_standard_manufacturing.php http://www.miic.gov.jm/News/news_minister_partnership_competitiveness.php ]]> Industry, Investment and Commerce Minister, Hon. Karl Samuda, has renewed calls for a private/public sector partnership, which can establish the framework to position Jamaica to be competitive in the global marketplace. Addressing the 10th Annual Fair Trading Commission (FTC) Shirley Playfair Lecture, at the Jamaica Pegasus Hotel, in Kingston, on September 10, Mr. Samuda noted that the latest World Bank’s ‘Doing Business’ report and the World Economic Forum competitiveness report show Jamaica “lagging behind,” in terms of the ease with which business is done, pointing out that he had asked Ministry personnel to analyse the findings. “The preliminary results indicate that one of the reasons why this has happened is that other countries have done much better at introducing legislation and taking appropriate action to reduce bureaucracy, and to improve their situation, so that they have become more competitive,” he said. Mr. Samuda lamented that the local productive sector had fallen victim to closed market protectionism, which had been implemented over several years. He said that while this had created a comfort level for stakeholders, yielding some successes in the process, it failed to generate sufficient incentives to encourage wholesale industrialisation within the sector, and position local interests to compete with their counterparts regionally and globally. Fri, 18 Sep 2009 12:49:00 EST http://www.miic.gov.jm/News/news_minister_partnership_competitiveness.php http://www.miic.gov.jm/News/news_ministry_magna_good.php ]]> Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Industry, Investment, and Commerce, Reginald Budhan has lauded the Magna Customer Rewards Programme, and is encouraging more of this type of initiative to boost consumer spending. "Within the context of the global recession and its adverse impact on the economy, any means of reducing prices for consumers and stimulating demand, is good for the economy," Mr. Budhan said. "As we know, in times of recession, consumers tend to guard their dollars. That leads to reduction in sales and contraction in companies, jobs are cut and less disposable income is available," he explained. "I am pleased that companies such as Magna Rewards are seeking new ways of easing the burden on consumers and, simultaneously, increasing the demand for goods and services," he stated. Mr. Budhan was speaking at a press conference hosted by the Magna Customer Rewards Programme, at the Courtleigh Hotel, New Kingston on September 1. The event marked the addition of six new partners to the programme, which currently has over 700,000 cardholders and 220 partner locations in the island. Thu, 10 Sep 2009 09:45:00 EST http://www.miic.gov.jm/News/news_ministry_magna_good.php http://www.miic.gov.jm/News/news_charities_coj_amnesty.php ]]> Charitable groups are being encouraged to take advantage of the special three-month amnesty now being offered by the Companies Office of Jamaica (COJ). "We are asking charitable organisations to take advantage of this amnesty," said Minister of Industry, Investment and Commerce, Hon. Karl Samuda, at a press briefing held today (Sept. 8) at the COJ's head office in New Kingston to launch the programme. "It's just our expression of support, recognising the difficulties that these organisations have and giving them as much support as possible by enabling this period of time to experience a reduction in costs," he stated. The amnesty, which will be offered for the period September 1 to November 30, applies to Companies Limited by Guarantee such as churches, charities, service clubs, non-profit organisations, non-governmental organisations (NGOs), and professional associations. It will allow these organisations to file outstanding documents with the COJ at reduced fees of between 50 and 75 per cent. Thu, 10 Sep 2009 09:18:00 EST http://www.miic.gov.jm/News/news_charities_coj_amnesty.php http://www.miic.gov.jm/News/news_ja_businesses_prestigious_award.php ]]> Local companies, Spatial Innovision and Totally Male, are among 10 regional entities vying for a $5.3 million (US$60,000) grand prize in the inaugural Pioneers of Prosperity Caribbean Award. The winner of the prestigious award will be named at a ceremony scheduled for the Half Moon Conference Centre in Montego Bay, St. James, on September 11. The ceremony, to be hosted by Prime Minister, the Hon. Bruce Golding, will mark the culmination of several months of meticulous and stringent evaluations of entrants in the Caribbean Pioneers of Prosperity programme. An initiative of the Multilateral Investment Fund of the Inter-American Development Bank (IDB), the John Templeton Foundation and the Social Equity Venture Fund (S.E.VEN Fund), the Pioneers of Prosperity programme seeks to inspire and mobilise a new generation of entrepreneurs in emerging economies by identifying, rewarding and promoting outstanding small and medium-sized enterprises to serve as role models to their peers. The Government’s investment promotion agency, Jamaica Trade and Invest (JTI), was integrally involved in the programme’s implementation locally. Thu, 10 Sep 2009 09:10:00 EST http://www.miic.gov.jm/News/news_ja_businesses_prestigious_award.php http://www.miic.gov.jm/News/news_fspid_dumps_contaminated_rice.php ]]> The Food Storage and Prevention of Infestation Division (FSPID) of the Ministry of Industry, Investment and Commerce, on September 1, destroyed some 25 tonnes of rice which was shipped to Jamaica from Vietnam in late June, but was found to be contaminated with rodent excreta. The FSPID’s Senior Food Storage Scientist, Tamara Morrison, said that the rice, valued at approximately J$1.24 million, was intended for local distribution. The rice was pre-released into the custody of a customs broker, subsequent to which FSPID inspectors conducted an initial inspection of the cargo on June 26. “The first inspection was relatively short. A breach to the container was seen immediately and, upon opening the container, gnaw marks and what was suspected to be rodent droppings, were seen,” she disclosed. However, she was unable to say whether the breach occurred in Jamaica or the port of origin. Thu, 10 Sep 2009 08:50:00 EST http://www.miic.gov.jm/News/news_fspid_dumps_contaminated_rice.php http://www.miic.gov.jm/News/news_hard_work_discipline.php ]]> Minister of Industry, Investment & Commerce, Karl Samuda has underlined the importance of hard work, focus and discipline in shaping the character and future of children, particularly those who were born and raised in less than ideal circumstances. The Minister was delivering the closing address to teenagers who attended the ‘Make Your Mark’ Summer Camp, at the Knutsford Court Hotel in Kingston on Thursday, July 30th. He urged the teenagers to assess for themselves their life’s objective, and apply themselves to achieve it in a diligent determined fashion. The Minister berated the ‘get rich quick’ mentality among many, and asserted that success meant nothing unless it “came through hard work, and a determination to maintain good order and lay a solid foundation that will sustain generations to come.” Fri, 31 Jul 2009 11:40:00 EST http://www.miic.gov.jm/News/news_hard_work_discipline.php http://www.miic.gov.jm/News/news_cac_launches_nutrition_guide.php ]]> The Consumer Affairs Commission (CAC) launched a nutritional guide, ‘Eating Right, When Money Tight’, at its head office, 2 Seaview Avenue, Kingston on Wednesday, July 29. The 40-page meal plan is aimed at assisting the most vulnerable consumers in providing nutritious meals, at a reasonable cost to an average family of five persons. The guide contains basic recipes, low-cost meal ideas and nutritional tips for the entire family. Speaking at the launch, Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Industry, Investment and Commerce, Reginald Budhan, lauded the CAC on its efforts in providing a means by which the most vulnerable consumers can alleviate some of the challenges of the economic crisis. “As is often the case, the ones who are more seriously affected in financially trying times such as these, are those persons in the lower income category, who are very often unable to meet their daily dietary needs,” Mr. Budhan pointed out. Fri, 31 Jul 2009 11:20:00 EST http://www.miic.gov.jm/News/news_cac_launches_nutrition_guide.php http://www.miic.gov.jm/News/news_public_private_partnership.php ]]> Minister of Industry, Investment and Commerce, Hon. Karl Samuda, has called for increased partnership between the public and the private sectors, in areas where it can be beneficial to the development of both sectors. Mr. Samuda, who was speaking at the Caribbean Business Renewable Conference, at the Knutsford Court Hotel, New Kingston on July 17, said that while there are differences between the sectors, creating a regulatory framework which facilitates the expansion of opportunities is critical in going forward. “The Government has a different set of shareholders and, as such, sometimes we tend to over regulate and frustrate the other side of the partnership, which is the private sector, who has different ways of doing things,” he said. He said, however, that as partners, they should be able to create the appropriate database critical to their movement forward. Thu, 23 Jul 2009 17:40:00 EST http://www.miic.gov.jm/News/news_public_private_partnership.php http://www.miic.gov.jm/News/news_increased_ftc_activity.php ]]> During fiscal year 2008/09, the Fair Trading Commission (FTC) completed 489 investigations into business conducted by local firms. Minister of State in the Ministry of Industry, Investments and Commerce, Hon. Michael Stern, told the House of Representatives on Wednesday, July 8, that this represented a resolution rate of 98.8 per cent between April, 2008 and March, 2009, compared to 38.1 per cent during 2007/08. "During the last financial year, the FTC, in carrying out its role, received 164 new cases. One hundred and six of these cases, or 64.6 per cent, were classified as 'misleading advertising' and 20 were classified as 'offences against competition'," he explained, as he made his contribution to the 2009/10 Sectoral Debate in the House of Representatives. Thu, 23 Jul 2009 17:14:00 EST http://www.miic.gov.jm/News/news_increased_ftc_activity.php http://www.miic.gov.jm/News/news_yep_orientation_ends.php ]]> Phase one of the Young Entrepreneurs Programme (YEP) has ended following five weeks of orientation sessions island wide, with approximately 1000 school leavers establishing interest to participate in the programme. YEP, a social safety initiative announced by the Honourable Prime Minister in his 2009/10 Budget Presentation, is aimed at ensuring that 2009 school leavers of high schools and tertiary institutions, who are interested in starting their own businesses, are exposed to training, have access to funding and are provided with post-loan support services. Under the programme $200 million will be on-lent to micro finance institutions by the Development Bank of Jamaica who manages the project. As a prelude to their application for credit, the YEP has a series of training and support initiatives intended to increase the likelihood of the young entrepreneur's ability to access funding and manage a successful enterprise. Thu, 23 Jul 2009 15:50:00 EST http://www.miic.gov.jm/News/news_yep_orientation_ends.php http://www.miic.gov.jm/News/news_jti_middle_east.php ]]> Jamaica Trade and Invest (JTI) and the London-based Middle East Association jointly hosted a reception on June 30, in London, to improve the business relationship between Jamaica and the Middle East. JTI became a member of the Middle East Association (MEA) in February. Its European Regional Manager, Laurence Jones, said that the agency is seeking to target Middle Eastern multinational corporations operating in the UK, as well as UK multinationals trading with or investing in the Middle East. “The aim is to disseminate information on the investment opportunities available in Jamaica, leading up to trade and investment missions to Jamaica by these companies in November 2009, and early 2010,” Mr. Jones said. Thu, 02 Jul 2009 13:15:00 EST http://www.miic.gov.jm/News/news_jti_middle_east.php http://www.miic.gov.jm/News/news_jea_branding_nes.php ]]> The Jamaica Exporters Association (JEA) will be emphasising branding, as an important plank of the National Export Strategy (NES), in seeking to build the country's export sector. President of the JEA, Michael Lumsden, gave this indication at a seminar on building brand Jamaica in the international market, held on June 17 at the Jamaica Pegasus Hotel. "We tend to use the term 'Brand Jamaica' very loosely and in different contexts. What the export strategy seeks to do is to pull together the national brand under a coherent system where we look at how to create synergy between the powerful elements of our national brand," he said. Mr. Lumsden added that in addition to traditional areas such as tourism and culture, consideration should also be given to Jamaica as a social brand. He disclosed that Jamaica Trade and Invest (JTI) has brought on board a branding specialist to co-ordinate these branding elements, and develop a communication strategy to support brand Jamaica. Thu, 02 Jul 2009 12:45:00 EST http://www.miic.gov.jm/News/news_jea_branding_nes.php http://www.miic.gov.jm/News/news_jti_jse_assist_smb.php ]]> Jamaica Trade and Invest (JTI), through its Corporate Finance Broker (CFB) Unit, has partnered with the Jamaica Stock Exchange (JSE) to facilitate potential capital injection in the small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) through the Junior Stock Exchange. The parties signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) on July 1 at the JTI, to signal the start of the initiative. The MOU will seek to enhance and grow the small business sector, and allow for participation in the Junior Stock Exchange, which encourages domestic investment in entrepreneurship, employment and economic development. Thu, 02 Jul 2009 12:35:00 EST http://www.miic.gov.jm/News/news_jti_jse_assist_smb.php http://www.miic.gov.jm/News/news_jti_itc_support_nes.php ]]> The Government’s investment promotion agency, Jamaica Trade and Invest (JTI), has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the International Trade Centre (ITC), to support efforts to promote the national Export Strategy among local stakeholders. The Geneva, Switzerland-based ITC, a joint agency of the World Trade Organisation (WTO) and the United Nations, enables small business export success in developing countries by providing trade development solutions to the private sector, trade support institutions and policy-makers. The Centre’s work focuses on product and market development; development of trade and support services; trade information; human resource development; international purchasing and supply management; needs assessment and programme design for trade promotion. Thu, 02 Jul 2009 12:05:00 EST http://www.miic.gov.jm/News/news_jti_itc_support_nes.php http://www.miic.gov.jm/News/news_compete_ja_improve_investment_climate.php ]]> Minister of Industry, Investment and Commerce, Karl Samuda, is confident that Jamaica can become the premier business location in the Caribbean region, by improving on its advantages. He expressed the view on June 18, in a presentation made on his behalf by President of Jamaica Trade and Invest (JTI), Robert Gregory, at the launch of Compete Jamaica at the JTI's Trafalgar Road offices, Kingston. Mr. Samuda pointed to advantages such as: Jamaica being an English-speaking country; its proximity to lucrative markets; and its ports and telecommunications systems being ranked among the best. "However, there is a need to create an economy that supports business growth and development and encourages and promotes innovation, creativity and productivity at all levels", he said. Fri, 19 Jun 2009 15:36:00 EST http://www.miic.gov.jm/News/news_compete_ja_improve_investment_climate.php http://www.miic.gov.jm/News/news_cement_consumer_protection.php ]]> Minister of Industry, Investment and Commerce, Hon. Karl Samuda, has defended the deregulation of the market for cement, noting that while the Government is keen to facilitate growth in manufacturing, it also has a duty to protect the consumer and ensure that Jamaicans are provided with the best quality products at competitive rates. "We are not about the business of providing a level of protection that compromises our ability to enjoy the best price, which comes through competition in the marketplace. That is the position of this Ministry," he stated. The Minister was responding to issues surrounding the removal of the Common External Tariff (CET) on imported cement at a press conference held on June 4 at his St. Lucia Avenue office in New Kingston. The 15 per cent Common External Tariff (CET) on imported cement was lifted in 2006, after problems arose with supplies by local manufacturer, Caribbean Cement Company Limited (CCCL). The two-year suspension of the CET was extended last year and is scheduled to expire in September. Thu, 18 Jun 2009 17:35:00 EST http://www.miic.gov.jm/News/news_cement_consumer_protection.php http://www.miic.gov.jm/News/news_fair_trade_strategy.php ]]> Deputy President of Jamaica Trade and Invest (JTI), Lisa Bell, has urged producers to consider employing the fair trade strategy in marketing Jamaican products internationally. "We are hopeful that our producers will look seriously at this strategy to achieve premium positioning for our niche products in international markets," Mrs. Bell said during the Fair Trade Certification Awareness workshop held on June 11 at JTI's head office in Kingston. She said that JTI, through its range of support services including Export Centres and Business Information Points, will assist producers to maintain long-term status with fair trade, noting that the workshop is important in building the capacity of the private sector "to ensure that they can compete effectively in this niche segment of the international marketplace." Thu, 18 Jun 2009 16:49:00 EST http://www.miic.gov.jm/News/news_fair_trade_strategy.php http://www.miic.gov.jm/News/news_harmonisation_caricom_econs_challenge.php ]]> Minister of Industry, Investment and Commerce, Hon. Karl Samuda, has said that harmonisation of economies within CARICOM, will prove a major challenge against the background that some Jamaican products face trade blockade by regional territories. The Minister said the trade blockade, worsened recently when a shipment of Jamaican beef patties was denied access by the Trinidad and Tobago authorities.. "The level of frustration that has been relayed to me and my officers in respect of this attempt to export to Trinidad, cannot be described in any other language but frustrating and it serves as a major impediment to the concept of free trade within CARICOM," Mr. Samuda said at a press conference convened at the Ministry's office on St. Lucia Avenue in New Kingston on June 4. Thu, 18 Jun 2009 15:54:00 EST http://www.miic.gov.jm/News/news_harmonisation_caricom_econs_challenge.php http://www.miic.gov.jm/News/news_portland_bic_launched.php ]]> The Portland branch of the Jamaica Business Information Centre (JBIC) was recently launched at a function at the Royal Mall, Port Antonio. The centre is the tenth such facility to be established across the country by the Jamaica Business Development Corporation (JBDC), under its JBIC project. It has been set up in an effort to improve the competitiveness of micro, small and medium sized businesses in the parish, by providing access to business, technical, marketing and financial services, through the use of Information Technology. Among the services it will provide are general business information, business development training, customised training packages, business plan services and back office support. Thu, 18 Jun 2009 15:27:00 EST http://www.miic.gov.jm/News/news_portland_bic_launched.php http://www.miic.gov.jm/News/news_scrap_metal_penalties_increased.php ]]> The House of Representatives on Tuesday, June 9, approved amendments to the Trade Act, increasing the fines for persons who continue to break the scrap metal regulations. Minister of Industry, Investment and Commerce Hon. Karl Samuda, who piloted the Bill, noted that it was necessary to increase the fines in light of the persistent non compliance to the regulations in the scrap metal industry. "In light of the persistent non compliance evidenced in the scrap metal export industry, the opportunity is also taken to amend the penalty provisions of the Trade Scrap Metal Regulations 2007 to a more realistic level, in order to promote compliance," Mr. Samuda stated. Thu, 18 Jun 2009 15:18:00 EST http://www.miic.gov.jm/News/news_scrap_metal_penalties_increased.php http://www.miic.gov.jm/News/news_janaac_launch.php ]]> Jamaica today fulfilled a vital element in the process of ensuring that its products meet internationally-accepted standards, with the formal launch of the Jamaica National Agency for Accreditation (JANAAC). Prime Minister Bruce Golding who officially launched the Agency said Jamaica has had to confront a number of barriers, such as the application of standards, that represent serious impediments to economic growth. JANAAC will ensure that assessment entities such as laboratories, certification bodies and other inspection authorities are suitably accredited to conform to international standards, in areas such as technical regulations, certification and testing, as well as measurement and inspection. Wed, 10 Jun 2009 11:30:00 EST http://www.miic.gov.jm/News/news_janaac_launch.php http://www.miic.gov.jm/News/news_samuda_urges_banks_to_support_manufacturing.php ]]> Minister of Industry, Investment and Commerce, Karl Samuda, has called on banks to invest more in the manufacturing sector to help the country produce its way out of the economic crisis. While expressing full confidence in Jamaica's ability to survive the global economic downturn, the Minister said that banks, through their lending policies, must show greater confidence in the productive ability of the people. "The banks have to change their attitude. They have to begin to understand that they must take a lower margin and give the business producing sector of this country a chance, because it is in their own interest," the Minister stated, as he addressed the press launch of 'Expo 2009' on May 27, at the Wexford Court Hotel in Montego Bay. Mon, 08 Jun 2009 12:26:00 EST http://www.miic.gov.jm/News/news_samuda_urges_banks_to_support_manufacturing.php http://www.miic.gov.jm/News/news_samuda_proposes_one_stop_facility.php ]]> Minister of Industry, Investment and Commerce, Karl Samuda, has proposed the implementation of a "one stop shop" facility, to reduce the time it takes to establish businesses in Jamaica. He was speaking on May 28, at a Roundtable Discussion on the 2009 Doing Business Report held at the Jamaica Trade and Invest (JTI), on Trafalgar Road, in Kingston. Mr. Samuda said the country's ranking could be greatly improved if it moved towards automation of more of the processes involved in conducting business. "One of the main focus that we have to have is the question of establishing a virtual one stop shop. If there is anything that is a priority, that is a priority," he emphasised. Mon, 08 Jun 2009 12:13:00 EST http://www.miic.gov.jm/News/news_samuda_proposes_one_stop_facility.php http://www.miic.gov.jm/News/news_caymanas_economic_zone_1000s_jobs.php ]]> Minister of Industry, Investment and Commerce, Karl Samuda, has said that the establishment of the Caymanas Economic Zone, in St. Catherine, is expected to provide jobs for more than 30,000 Jamaicans. Addressing members of the Jamaican Diaspora Canada Foundation (JDCF) and several Jamaican business owners at a recent meeting at the Jamaican Consulate General in Toronto, Canada, Mr. Samuda said the industrial zone is located in an excellent area for development, and that it is located next to where the largest and most sophisticated, trained people in the Caribbean live (Portmore), and is adjacent to one of the best ports in the world. The Caymanas Economic Zone will cost US$2.5 billion and will transform approximately 1,000 acres of land into factories and warehouses for the Information and Communication Technology (ICT) industry, the services industry, manufacturing and agro-processing. Eventually, the Tinson Pen Aerodrome, in Kingston, will be relocated next to the economic zone. Mon, 08 Jun 2009 11:53:00 EST http://www.miic.gov.jm/News/news_caymanas_economic_zone_1000s_jobs.php http://www.miic.gov.jm/News/news_samuda_canada_mission_jamaica_competitive.php ]]> Minister of Industry, Investment and Commerce, Karl Samuda, has said that the objectives of his working visit to Canada from May 19 to 23 were to learn from the Canadians' business development experience, and find strategies to help Jamaica become more competitive. "In the final analysis, we cannot attract investments if we have burdensome bureaucracy or any form of uncompetitive practice that will send the wrong signals to our investors," he said. The Minister was speaking to members of the Invest in Canada Bureau, part of the Department of Foreign Affairs and International Trade (DFAIT) on May 20, in Ottawa, Canada. Thu, 28 May 2009 14:40:00 EST http://www.miic.gov.jm/News/news_samuda_canada_mission_jamaica_competitive.php http://www.miic.gov.jm/News/news_samuda_canada_biz_dev_shop.php ]]> Minister of Industry, Investment and Commerce, Karl Samuda, has lauded BizPal, one of Canada's premier virtual shops for business applications. BizPal (Pal stands for permits and licences) is a one-stop online service giving persons interested in setting up business all the information on the permits, licences and regulations needed, from all levels of government, to start their business. Minister Samuda, who was on a four-day visit to Canada, May 19 to 23, to observe business strategies and how to cut bureaucratic red tape, said that BizPal was definitely needed in Jamaica. Thu, 28 May 2009 13:50:00 EST http://www.miic.gov.jm/News/news_samuda_canada_biz_dev_shop.php http://www.miic.gov.jm/News/news_jbdc_prepare_small_business_secure_contracts.php ]]> The Jamaica Business Development Corporation (JBDC) has embarked on an islandwide drive to help small business operators position themselves to secure contracts. As part of the Government's stimulus package, Prime Minister Bruce Golding announced in December that the Government would facilitate small business access to at least 15 per cent of Government contracts. Thu, 28 May 2009 12:58:00 EST http://www.miic.gov.jm/News/news_jbdc_prepare_small_business_secure_contracts.php http://www.miic.gov.jm/News/news_mandeville_biz_centre.php ]]> The Jamaica Business Development Corporation (JBDC) opened its ninth Jamaica Business Information Centre (JAMBIC) in Mandeville, Manchester on Thursday, May 14, which will provide a range of technical support for small entrepreneurs. The facility, located at the Morris Entrepreneurial Centre, is in collaboration with the Northern Caribbean University (NCU). A Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was signed between the JBDC and NCU for the operation of the facility, which will offer general business information, business development and planning services, customised training packages, and back office support to micro small and medium enterprises (MSMEs). Minister of State in Ministry of Industry, Investment and Commerce Hon. Michael Stern in his remarks at the opening, said that the JBDC continues to strengthen and expand its network of business information points across the island. Wed, 20 May 2009 12:30:00 EST http://www.miic.gov.jm/News/news_mandeville_biz_centre.php http://www.miic.gov.jm/News/news_msme_register_failure.php ]]> Senior Director in the Ministry of Industry, Investment and Commerce, Douglas Webster, has said that several investors were short-changing their businesses by failing to register them, thereby losing out on available financial and professional assistance. Mr. Webster, who is also the head of Policy, Planning, Projects and Research in the Ministry, was speaking at the opening ceremony of the Jamaica Business Development Corporation (JBDC) Small Business Expo held on May 6 at the Hilton Kingston Hotel, New Kingston. "It is so important that businesses be registered. There are so many entrepreneurs out there: smart, savvy, highly intelligent, but informal. That really impedes you and, surely, in the context of getting assistance," he said. Wed, 20 May 2009 12:25:00 EST http://www.miic.gov.jm/News/news_msme_register_failure.php http://www.miic.gov.jm/News/news_small_business_bedrock.php ]]> Minister of State in the Ministry of Industry, Investment and Commerce Michael Stern has said that small businesses are the bedrock of Jamaica. "In many ways, small businesses are the bedrock of the country. Their success mirrors the country's success," he stated at Today's Money Limited Mandeville Money Expo held on Wednesday, May 13 at the Golf View Hotel in Manchester. He noted that the Government is committed to supporting the sector to create jobs and grow the economy and has implemented several measures to strengthen the capacity of these operations, including the provision of business development support, to enhance their viability and competitiveness. Wed, 20 May 2009 12:16:00 EST http://www.miic.gov.jm/News/news_small_business_bedrock.php http://www.miic.gov.jm/News/news_investment_facilitation_canada.php ]]> Minister of Industry, Investment and Commerce, Karl Samuda leaves the island for Canada tomorrow (May 19) at the head of a five-member delegation to study Canada’s concept for investment facilitation, and to examine how this process can be adapted and implemented in Jamaica. The mission will also seek to increase the team’s understanding of Canada’s Small Business Development support mechanisms, and the measures that are in place to safeguard the growth of the small business sector. The Industry Ministry will be accompanied on the study tour by Mrs. Andrene Collings, Senior Director in the Ministry’s Commerce Division; Miss Valerie Vieira, CEO - Jamaica Business Development Corporation (JBDC); Mr. Robert Kerr, Manager, JTI’s Investment Support Services; and Miss Lorna Perkins, Modernization Projects Coordinator, Office of the Cabinet. Mon, 18 May 2009 16:36:00 EST http://www.miic.gov.jm/News/news_investment_facilitation_canada.php http://www.miic.gov.jm/News/news_coj_offer_amnesty.php ]]> The Companies Office of Jamaica (COJ) will be offering a six-month amnesty which will allow a range of charitable organizations to file their outstanding documents at reduced cost. The amnesty will also see the waiving of penalties for late submissions. Making the announcement in Parliament this afternoon, Minister of Industry, Investment and Commerce, the Hon. Karl Samuda said this move will be implemented in the next financial year, following Cabinet approval. The Minister, who was making his contribution to the Budget Debate, said organizations to benefit include service clubs, churches and non-profit organizations which will be able to file documents such as annual reports, income and expenditure reports at reduced fees of between 20% and 75%. Tue, 05 May 2009 10:45:00 EST http://www.miic.gov.jm/News/news_coj_offer_amnesty.php http://www.miic.gov.jm/News/news_src_supporting_industry.php ]]> Minister of Industry, Investment and Commerce, the Hon. Karl Samuda, is reporting that the Scientific Research Council (SRC) has recorded significant achievements in its undertakings during the 2008/09 fiscal year. Making his contribution in the 2009/10 Budget Debate at Gordon House on Wednesday, April 29, Mr. Samuda said the SRC successes came, primarily, in the areas of formulations, crop/product, and wastewater system developments, as well as technical support. Tue, 05 May 2009 10:27:00 EST http://www.miic.gov.jm/News/news_src_supporting_industry.php http://www.miic.gov.jm/News/news_used_car_lic_suspended.php ]]> Minister of Industry, Investment and Commerce, the Hon. Karl Samuda has suspended the granting of certification to new businesses to operate as used car dealers, and has instructed that no new import licences must be issued for over-aged vehicles, unless specific approval is granted by him. The Minister has also directed the Consumer Affairs Commission, CAC, to conduct an audit on all certified used car dealers over the next two weeks. Tue, 05 May 2009 10:15:00 EST http://www.miic.gov.jm/News/news_used_car_lic_suspended.php http://www.miic.gov.jm/News/news_govt_reviewing_vehicle_policy.php ]]> Minister of Industry, Investment, and Commerce, the Hon. Karl Samuda, has announced a review of the existing motor vehicle policy, which he says is currently underway. Delivering his speech in the 2009/10 Budget Debate in Parliament on Wednesday, April 29, Mr. Samuda, informed that the review will include a re-examination of the tonnage and age of trucks being licensed, as well as exploring the implications of importing damaged vehicles, which will be repaired in free-zone facilities for re-export. The latest review follows two similar undertakings, carried out during the 2008/09 fiscal year. In May 2008, Mr. Samuda announced a ban on the importation of damaged vehicles, with importers mandated to land all such units negotiated prior to that announcement, by July 31. This deadline was, however, extended by two months. Tue, 05 May 2009 09:59:00 EST http://www.miic.gov.jm/News/news_govt_reviewing_vehicle_policy.php http://www.miic.gov.jm/News/news_small_biz_procurement_policy.php ]]> Ministries and agencies of Government will now be required to allocate 15% of their recurrent and capital budgets to allow for the procurement of goods and services from qualified small and micro enterprises. This was announced this afternoon by Minister of Industry, Investment and Commerce, Karl Samuda, during his contribution to the 2009/2010 Budget Debate in Gordon House. Tue, 05 May 2009 09:25:00 EST http://www.miic.gov.jm/News/news_small_biz_procurement_policy.php http://www.miic.gov.jm/News/news_jti_3.21B_investments.php ]]> Upwards of $32.1 billion of capital investments in local industries were facilitated by the Government’s investment promotion arm, Jamaica Trade and Invest (JTI), during the 2008/09 fiscal year, Minister of Industry, Investment, and Commerce, the Hon. Karl Samuda, has disclosed. Making his presentation in the 2009/10 Budget Debate at Gordon House on Wednesday, April 29, Mr. Samuda pointed out that while final figures are still being collated, up to February, the figure had surpassed the target set for the period by approximately $6B, and was more than $11.1B over the previous year’s budget. Tue, 05 May 2009 09:40:00 EST http://www.miic.gov.jm/News/news_jti_3.21B_investments.php http://www.miic.gov.jm/News/news_export_policy_roadmap.php ]]> Minister of Industry, Investment, and Commerce, the Hon. Karl Samuda, on Wednesday, April 29, unveiled Jamaica’s National Export Policy (NEP), during his presentation in the 2009/10 Budget Debate at Gordon House. Mr. Samuda said that the policy, development of which was led by the Government’s investment promotion arm, Jamaica Trade and Invest (JTI), AND the Jamaica Exporters Association (JEA), with assistance from the International Trade Centre in Geneva, is expected to serve as a “road map for our exporters, (while providing) a menu of solutions to facilitate the export trade in ways, never before seen.” Tue, 05 May 2009 08:41:00 EST http://www.miic.gov.jm/News/news_export_policy_roadmap.php http://www.miic.gov.jm/News/news_bsj_retooling.php ]]> Government has undertaken a comprehensive re-tooling exercise at Bureau of Standards Jamaica, (BSJ) involving equipment expenditure of over $69-million, aimed at making the Bureau a world-class organization. This was announced this afternoon by Minister of Industry, Investment and Commerce, the Hon. Karl Samuda, during his contribution to the 2009/10 Budget Debate in Gordon House. He told the House that the Bureau now had the capacity to conduct measurements of force and pressure that are traceable and capable of withstanding the scrutiny of Jamaica’s international trading partners. Tue, 05 May 2009 08:22:00 EST http://www.miic.gov.jm/News/news_bsj_retooling.php http://www.miic.gov.jm/News/news_govt_mkt_co_london.php ]]> Minister of Industry, Investment and Commerce, Karl Samuda, has said that JANCo, a company which operated out of the Jamaican High Commission in London assisting Jamaican manufacturers market their products in Europe, is to be reactivated. Minister Samuda said that a search is on to identify a Chief Executive Officer (CEO) for the company, to direct and manage its operations. "The purpose of the company would be, for those players who have a problem marketing their products, say a small designer or small agro-processor who wants to get products into the European market, is to undertake the cost of promoting those products through the company," he explained. Fri, 27 Mar 2009 17:11:00 EST http://www.miic.gov.jm/News/news_govt_mkt_co_london.php http://www.miic.gov.jm/News/news_samuda_Canada_one_stop.php ]]> Minister of Industry, Investment, and Commerce Karl Samuda, is scheduled to visit Canada in April, to look at one-stop facilities created to support business development. He will be looking for measures that can be adopted and implemented in Jamaica, against the background of challenges arising in facilitating the growth of business and trade, locally. Addressing the official launch of the Jamaica Manufacturers Association's (JMA) Hidden Costs Study, at the Association's Duke Street office, downtown Kingston, on Wednesday, March 25, Mr. Samuda said the study noted that more time was spent on revenue protection than on trade facilitation. Fri, 27 Mar 2009 16:25:00 EST http://www.miic.gov.jm/News/news_samuda_Canada_one_stop.php http://www.miic.gov.jm/News/news_samuda_urges_focus_export.php ]]> Industry, Investment and Commerce Minister, Karl Samuda, has urged manufacturers to place greater focus on producing goods for export to earn much needed foreign exchange for Jamaica. He said that while engaging in manufacturing for local consumption is good, it is not good enough to have products that are not geared to export and which can earn foreign exchange. "Jamaica has a very simple problem, we don't have enough foreign exchange, we don't earn enough foreign exchange: It's all about (foreign) exchange," the Minister declared. He was addressing the launch of the Jamaica Manufacturers' Association's (JMA) Hidden Costs Report, at the association's Duke Street office, downtown Kingston, on Wednesday, March 25. Fri, 27 Mar 2009 16:08:00 EST http://www.miic.gov.jm/News/news_samuda_urges_focus_export.php http://www.miic.gov.jm/News/news_consumer_alert_successful.php ]]> Initiatives taken by the Ministry of Industry, Investment & Commerce to stabilize basic food prices through consumer education have seen noticeable success in terms of price reduction by some retailers, while others have offered significant discounts, Mrs. Dolsie Allen, Chief Executive Officer of the Consumer Affairs Commission, (CAC) has reported. The CAC Head said the consumer education programme has resulted in a significant “decrease in the gap between the maximum and minimum prices” for these goods. She noted that the March 5 – 6 survey of food prices showed that some outlets had reduced their prices by as much as $113.95 per kg. for saltfish; $9.94 per kg. for whole chicken; $9.00 for condensed milk and $18.35 per kg. for bulk rice. Thu, 26 Mar 2009 16:45:00 EST http://www.miic.gov.jm/News/news_consumer_alert_successful.php http://www.miic.gov.jm/News/news_bsj_src_fertiliser_pass.php ]]> The fertiliser which was imported last year by the Government, to ease the financial burden on farmers, has been given a clean bill of health. Minister of Industry, Investment, and Commerce, Karl Samuda, told a press conference at the Ministry, in Kingston, on March 18, that this is the result of conclusive tests carried out by the Bureau of Standards Jamaica (BSJ), and the Scientific Research Council (SRC). Fri, 20 Mar 2009 16:26:00 EST http://www.miic.gov.jm/News/news_bsj_src_fertiliser_pass.php http://www.miic.gov.jm/News/news_export_strategy_april1.php ]]> After years of intense deliberations on the much-anticipated National Export Strategy, Government and stakeholders in the export sector have hammered out the final draft of the document to guide the all-important industry. Stakeholders in the export sector on March 17 assembled at the Jamaica Pegasus Hotel, New Kingston, to validate the final draft of the proposed strategy, ahead of the April 1 implementation date. Fri, 20 Mar 2009 16:11:00 EST http://www.miic.gov.jm/News/news_export_strategy_april1.php http://www.miic.gov.jm/News/news_cac_secured_money_for_consumers.php ]]> The Consumer Affairs Commission (CAC) has secured a total of $19.7 million on behalf of aggrieved consumers for the 2008 calendar year, said Chief Executive Officer of the organisation, Dolsie Allen. Mrs. Allen said that the sum was for the settlement of 1,443 of 1,630 complaints received, representing an 88.5 per cent resolution rate. Fri, 20 Mar 2009 15:20:00 EST http://www.miic.gov.jm/News/news_cac_secured_money_for_consumers.php http://www.miic.gov.jm/News/news_samuda_pledges_support_consumers.php ]]> Minister of Industry, Investment and Commerce, Karl Samuda, has pledged the government's continued support in keeping consumers informed, so as to exercise greater intelligence in their purchasing decisions. In his message to mark World Consumer Rights Day (WCRD) on March 15 under the theme: 'Be a Smart Consumer...Empower Yourself', the Minister said that the Ministry, through initiatives being implemented by the Consumer Affairs Commission (CAC) and the National Consumers League (NCL), has intensified efforts to safeguard and inform consumers of their rights. Fri, 20 Mar 2009 14:38:00 EST http://www.miic.gov.jm/News/news_samuda_pledges_support_consumers.php http://www.miic.gov.jm/News/news_export_stakeholders_retooling.php ]]> Minister of Industry, Investment, and Commerce, Karl Samuda, has made an impassioned appeal to stakeholders in the export sector, to embark on an urgent retooling exercise. Speaking on March 17, at the validation session of the National Export Strategy, held at the Jamaica Pegasus Hotel, Minister Samuda sought to mobilise players in the sector to inject capital in a comprehensive retooling programme. The Minister maintained that this is the direction that sector interests will have to pursue, to keep pace with the rest of the world or risk languishing behind. Fri, 20 Mar 2009 14:28:00 EST http://www.miic.gov.jm/News/news_export_stakeholders_retooling.php http://www.miic.gov.jm/News/news_stern_greater_ict_investment.php ]]> Minister of State in the Ministry of Industry, Investment, and Commerce, Michael Stern, has suggested that governments and business communities in the region work together to capitalize on emerging opportunities in the Information and Communication Technology (ICT) industry. "Despite difficult times, we need not be unnecessarily pessimistic. What we need to see now is greater investment in ICT, so that we in this region can have the same sort of impact in the international market as (Malaysia and Singapore have)," Mr. Stern said. Fri, 20 Mar 2009 14:00:00 EST http://www.miic.gov.jm/News/news_stern_greater_ict_investment.php http://www.miic.gov.jm/News/news_samuda_reaffirms_committment_to_business.php ]]> Minister of Industry, Investment & Commerce, Hon. Karl Samuda has re-affirmed his Ministry’s commitment to promoting a seamless facilitation of business through the use of e-commerce services, and the removal of bureaucracy which could frustrate the manufacturing and export sectors.  The Minister was discussing critical matters relating to his Portfolio on the JIS programme Issues & Answers. Mr. Samuda said he had pledged that in the first term in office his Ministry would “seek to reduce bureaucracy over which we have control by 50%.” To this end, he said, his Ministry has been working through the Target Competitiveness Committee to address those areas of bureaucracy which frustrates exporters and manufacturers. Mon, 16 Mar 2009 09:32:00 EST http://www.miic.gov.jm/News/news_samuda_reaffirms_committment_to_business.php http://www.miic.gov.jm/News/news_govt_drives_entrepeneurship.php ]]> Minister of State in the Ministry of Industry, Investment and Commerce, Michael Stern, has said that the Government has been and will continue to implement initiatives and policies to drive the development of entrepreneurship in Jamaica. "Our mission is to create a nation of creative and innovative entrepreneurs, who can contribute more effectively to job and wealth creation," Minister Stern stated, as he addressed the HEART Trust/NTA's National Entrepreneurial Conference on March 5, at the Knutsford Court Hotel in Kingston. Fri, 13 Mar 2009 15:10:00 EST http://www.miic.gov.jm/News/news_govt_drives_entrepeneurship.php http://www.miic.gov.jm/News/news_fertilizer_safety.php ]]> The Minister of Industry, Investment and Commerce, the Hon. Karl Samuda has emphasized that the Diamond ‘R’ fertilizer which is now being marketed in Jamaica is safe for use by farmers and private citizens alike. He said his Ministry’s decision to facilitate importation of the fertilizer came only after the most exhaustive investigation into its production process, which included site visits to the plant in Florida. The Commerce Minister was speaking on Wednesday March 4 at a joint press conference with the Minister of Agriculture, Dr. Christopher Tufton to address charges by Member of Parliament, Roger Clarke regarding the fertilizer’s efficacy and safety. Fri, 06 Mar 2009 15:48:00 EST http://www.miic.gov.jm/News/news_fertilizer_safety.php http://www.miic.gov.jm/News/news_jbdc_market_trends.php ]]> Executive Director of the Jamaica Business Development Corporation (JBDC), Harold Davis, has urged business owners to do research on existing marketing trends, the condition and status of markets and improve efficiencies in the operation of the businesses. "It comes down to two things: you have to have a firm handle on what the market is saying to be able to read the signs of the market, see where the investments are heading and where the trends are heading. Have your ears and eyes on the ground, to ensure that you understand the trends in the market," Mr. Davis advised. Fri, 06 Mar 2009 15:28:00 EST http://www.miic.gov.jm/News/news_jbdc_market_trends.php http://www.miic.gov.jm/News/news_value_science_technology.php ]]> Team Leader for the popularisation of science and technology, at the Scientific Research Council (SRC), Doreen Dietrich, is calling on students, educators and other stakeholders, to appreciate the value of science and technology to national development. Speaking at a recent Jamaica Public Service (JPS) Science and Technology Exposition in Mandeville, Manchester, Mrs. Dietrich said the country was lagging behind developed countries, because not enough emphasis is being placed on science and technology. Fri, 06 Mar 2009 15:07:00 EST http://www.miic.gov.jm/News/news_value_science_technology.php http://www.miic.gov.jm/News/news_samuda_stimulus_funds.php ]]> Minister of Industry, Investment and Commerce, Karl Samuda, recently, got a first-hand look at how some of the funds provided under the Government stimulus package to assist the micro and small business sector, are being utilized. Minister Samuda, accompanied by the Minister of State in the Ministry, Michael Stern, visited seven micro business clients of the Jamaica National Small Business Loans Limited (JNSBL), who have received loan funds under the stimulus package to start new, or expand existing businesses. Fri, 27 Feb 2009 17:41:00 EST http://www.miic.gov.jm/News/news_samuda_stimulus_funds.php http://www.miic.gov.jm/News/news_jnsbl_250_million_for_small_businesses.php ]]> Jamaica National Small Business Loans Limited (JNSBL) has received $250 million from the Development Bank of Jamaica (DBJ) to on-lend to micro and small businesses. This is part of the Government’s stimulus package to assist the sector in the current financial crisis. The first tranche of $125 million was received on Wednesday, February 18. JNBS manager, Frank Whylie, made the disclosure recently. He said the funds could not have come at a better time, as several clients have graduated from micro to small, and now required larger loans in order to expand their businesses. Fri, 27 Feb 2009 17:28:00 EST http://www.miic.gov.jm/News/news_jnsbl_250_million_for_small_businesses.php http://www.miic.gov.jm/News/news_samuda_caricom_beat_financial_crisis.php ]]> Minister of Industry, Investment and Commerce, Karl Samuda, has suggested that CARICOM identify and develop areas of comparative advantage, in order to deal effectively with the current global financial crisis. “We have taken our eyes off the need to be more productive. We have taken our eyes off the need to apply technology appropriately. So that those things we can do and do well, we have failed to do, or we have done in a marginal way,” Mr. Samuda said. Fri, 20 Feb 2009 12:28:00 EST http://www.miic.gov.jm/News/news_samuda_caricom_beat_financial_crisis.php http://www.miic.gov.jm/News/news_co-op_societies_kept_economy_going.php ]]> The co-operative movement has kept Jamaica's economy going, and even through turbulent times, it has remained firm in providing credit to small enterprises, said Minister of State in the Ministry of Industry, Investment and Commerce, Michael Stern. He was addressing a church service on Sunday February 15, at the Spring Ground Missionary Church in Manchester, to celebrative the 50th anniversary of the National Union of Co-operative Societies. Fri, 20 Feb 2009 12:08:00 EST http://www.miic.gov.jm/News/news_co-op_societies_kept_economy_going.php http://www.miic.gov.jm/News/news_small_businesses_govt_loan_facility.php ]]> The Jamaica Business Development Corporation (JBDC), has said that there is already a high level of interest and positive feedback from the small business community about the recent roll out of a $150 million loan facility instituted by Government for the Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs). “The interest has been extremely high…up to 200 persons had shown an interest before the programme even rolled out and to date, the take-up has been significant, it has been growing steadily,” Executive Director at the JBDC, Harold Davis said at a JIS ‘Think Tank’ on February 5. Fri, 13 Feb 2009 12:48:00 EST http://www.miic.gov.jm/News/news_small_businesses_govt_loan_facility.php http://www.miic.gov.jm/News/news_ps_export_potential.php ]]> Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Industry, Investment, and Commerce, Reginald Budhan, has identified several areas, which he says have the potential to boost the island's export capacity, and are worth pursuing. Mr. Budhan, who was the guest speaker at a symposium hosted by the University of the West Indies' (UWI) Department of Economics at the Mona Visitors' Lodge, on February 6, held under the theme: 'The Diversification of CARICOM Exports: Opportunities & Challenges', noted that these areas, which are capable of generating high value/low volume products, are gaining prominence as the traditional areas of export have been "unresponsive" over the years. As such, new options are being explored. Fri, 16 Feb 2009 08:15:00 EST http://www.miic.gov.jm/News/news_ps_export_potential.php http://www.miic.gov.jm/News/news_world_recession_ja_opportunities.php ]]> Minister of Industry, Investment and Commerce, Karl Samuda, has said that the world economic recession can provide opportunities for Jamaica, and the Government will be moving to more aggressively package and market investment areas. "Now is the time to seize the moment," Minister Samuda said, as he addressed the first Jamaica Investment Forum in London, England on February 5. "We believe that in every crisis there is an opportunity waiting to be discovered and that is our driving force," he added. Fri, 13 Feb 2009 12:12:00 EST http://www.miic.gov.jm/News/news_world_recession_ja_opportunities.php http://www.miic.gov.jm/News/news_ja_uk_investments.php ]]> Declaring that, “we are here because we mean business”, three senior Jamaican Government Ministers told the first Jamaica United Kingdom Investment Forum on February 5 that, despite the international economic downturns, now was the right time to invest in Jamaica. The three Ministers were - Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs and Foreign Trade, Dr. Kenneth Baugh; Minister of Industry, Investment and Commerce, Karl Samuda; and Minister without portfolio in the Ministry of Finance, Don Wehby. Fri, 13 Feb 2009 12:00:00 EST http://www.miic.gov.jm/News/news_ja_uk_investments.php http://www.miic.gov.jm/News/news_govt_assist_smes.php ]]> The Government is implementing measures to assist with the development of the Small and Medium Enterprise (SMEs), Minister of State in the Ministry of Industry, Investment and Commerce, Michael Stern, has stated. "We do this by providing a wide range of support services and programmes to SMEs, in the areas of business start-up, incubation, information access, human resources development, financing, market access, productivity enhancement and infrastructural facilities," he said. Fri, 06 Feb 2009 13:24:00 EST http://www.miic.gov.jm/News/news_govt_assist_smes.php http://www.miic.gov.jm/News/news_small_biz_global_econ_crisis.php ]]> Small business owners from central Jamaica were recently informed of a number of strategies to keep their businesses afloat in light of the global economic crisis. The business owners who were attending the Jamaica National Small Business Loans (JNSBL) Biz-Grow Seminar at the Mandeville Baptist Church Hall on Thursday January 29, were implored by business consultant with the Jamaica Business Development Corporation (JBDC), Daren Larmond to seize opportunities, to "wise up", and think globally, and eliminate waste in order to cope with the current economic crisis. Fri, 06 Feb 2009 12:57:00 EST http://www.miic.gov.jm/News/news_small_biz_global_econ_crisis.php http://www.miic.gov.jm/News/news_ecbip_easier_commerce.php ]]> The establishment of Export Centres/Business Information Points (ECBIP) across the island has made it easier for owners of micro, small and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs) to conduct business with public entities. This is the word from Deputy Programme Manager for the Private Sector Development Project (PSDP), Eleanor Henry, at the opening of an ECBIP on January 29, at the Rural Agricultural Development Authority's (RADA) St. Thomas parish office in Morant Bay. Fri, 06 Feb 2009 12:32:00 EST http://www.miic.gov.jm/News/news_ecbip_easier_commerce.php http://www.miic.gov.jm/News/news_jea_ec_bip.php An Export Centre/Business Information Point (EC/BIP) will be officially opened at the Rural Agricultural Development Authority's (RADA) St. Thomas parish office in Morant Bay on Thursday, January 29. The EC/BIP is a component of the Private Sector Development Programme (PSDP), which is a five-year project jointly funded by the Government of Jamaica and the European Union. Fri, 30 Jan 2009 16:32:00 EST http://www.miic.gov.jm/News/news_jea_ec_bip.php http://www.miic.gov.jm/News/news_govt_support_investment_innovation.php Government has and will continue to make direct interventions to stimulate investment in innovation according to Minister of State in the Ministry of Industry, Investment and Commerce, Michael Stern. He said that a number of initiatives are already in place including a Technology Investment Fund, established through the National Commission on Science and Technology (NCST) to finance investment in commercial activities, which contain new or substantial technological improvements. Fri, 30 Jan 2009 16:27:00 EST http://www.miic.gov.jm/News/news_govt_support_investment_innovation.php http://www.miic.gov.jm/News/news_msme_backbone_economy.php Minister of State in the Ministry of Industry, Investment and Commerce, Michael Stern is urging the small business sector to 'think big' in order to develop their business, which will contribute to the overall growth of the country. "This I believe is the mindset that every Jamaican entrepreneur must have in order to be truly world class...from small acorns grow great oak trees," Mr. Stern said at the opening ceremony of the Private Sector Development Programme (PSDP) symposium held at the Girl Guides' Headquarters in Kingston on January 21. Fri, 23 Jan 2009 12:15:00 EST http://www.miic.gov.jm/News/news_msme_backbone_economy.php http://www.miic.gov.jm/News/news_food_price_reduction.php Minister of Industry, Investment and Commerce, Karl Samuda, has stated that based on the January 8 and 9 survey of food prices in the Corporate Area and Manchester, there has been a seven per cent reduction in prices compared to December, 2008. "What we did is we took the best of these prices and compared them with the weighted average price that is used every time that we do a survey. The last survey was done January 8 to 9 and when compared against the December 18 and 19 prices we find some very interesting differences. We find that the average reduction in prices is seven percent if you take the best prices that are offered in the various retail outlets," Mr. Samuda said. Fri, 16 Jan 2009 15:54:00 EST http://www.miic.gov.jm/News/news_food_price_reduction.php http://www.miic.gov.jm/access_to_information.php In an effort to improve governmental accountability, transparency and public participation in national decision-making and in keeping with global trends the Government of Jamaica passed the Access to Information Act in June 2002. This legislation gives a general right of access to members of the public to official documents held by government organizations. These include Government Ministries, Agencies and Departments, Statutory Bodies, Parish Councils, wholly-owned Government companies or those in which the Government has more than 50% shares and publicly-funded educational institutions. Thu, 18 Dec 2008 08:08:00 EST http://www.miic.gov.jm/access_to_information.php http://www.miic.gov.jm/News/news_rural_ja_exports.php Minister of State in the Ministry of Industry, Investment and Commerce, Michael Stern, has said that persons in rural Jamaica are serious about taking advantage of opportunities in the export sector. Speaking at the opening of the Export Centre and Business Information Point, in the St. Elizabeth Co-operative Credit Union Complex in Santa Cruz, on December 4, the State Minister said that despite the many challenges faced by business operators, they continue to seek out opportunities, build local export capacity, thus ensuring the continued growth and development of micro, medium and small enterprises. Thu, 11 Dec 2008 16:23:00 EST http://www.miic.gov.jm/News/news_rural_ja_exports.php http://www.miic.gov.jm/News/news_govt_merge_agencies_small_business_loans.php The Government is looking towards merging some of the agencies that offer loans to small businesses in its bid to continue to promote entrepreneurial development in Jamaica. This is according to State Minister in the Ministry of Industry, Investment and Commerce, Michael Stern, who was speaking at the Technology Innovation Centre's (TIC) annual Client Company Awards Ceremony, at the University of Technology (UTech) campus on Dec. 8. Thu, 11 Dec 2008 16:15:00 EST http://www.miic.gov.jm/News/news_govt_merge_agencies_small_business_loans.php http://www.miic.gov.jm/News/news_fspid_lauded_food_safety_work.php State Minister in the Ministry of Industry, Investment and Commerce, Michael Stern, has lauded the Food Storage and Prevention of Infestation Division (FSPID) for its role in ensuring the safety and wholesomeness of the nation's food supply. "I commend you for the important contribution and for all the years of helping to reduce the risks associated with the storage and consumption of food," he stated during his address at the FSPID's 50th anniversary gala banquet held Thursday December 4 at the Terra Nova All-Suite Hotel in Kingston. Thu, 11 Dec 2008 16:12:00 EST http://www.miic.gov.jm/News/news_fspid_lauded_food_safety_work.php http://www.miic.gov.jm/News/news_ja_urged_capitalize_global_economy.php State Minister in the Ministry of Industry, Investment, and Commerce, Michael Stern, has urged young Jamaicans to capitalise on the current global economic recession, and empower themselves by becoming entrepreneurs. He was speaking at a small business development expo held at the Dorritt Bent Hall in Spaldings, Clarendon, on November 27. Thu, 11 Dec 2008 15:52:00 EST http://www.miic.gov.jm/News/news_ja_urged_capitalize_global_economy.php http://www.miic.gov.jm/News/news_jbdc_commended_assisting_msmes.php Minister of State in the Ministry of Industry, Investment and Commerce, Michael Stern has commended the Jamaica Business Development Corporation (JBDC), for its role in creating promotional opportunities for micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs). Speaking at the launch of the JBDC's Christmas fair, Kumba Mi Yabba, on December 3, the State Minister lauded the Corporation for "creatively embracing the spirit of the Jamaican Christmas traditions, by providing a welcome opportunity for MSMEs to showcase and market their products." Thu, 11 Dec 2008 15:47:00 EST http://www.miic.gov.jm/News/news_jbdc_commended_assisting_msmes.php http://www.miic.gov.jm/News/news_creative_works.php Executive Director of the Jamaica Intellectual Property Office (JIPO), Carol Simpson, has urged persons to ensure that their creative works are copyrighted, as they could be used as instruments in financial transactions, and as lifetime investments. Miss Simpson, who outlined the importance of Intellectual Property Rights, at a recent seminar put on by JIPO, at the Golf View Hotel in Mandeville, Manchester, highlighted the many benefits that could accrue, when intellectual work is protected. Fri, 28 Nov 2008 12:38:00 EST http://www.miic.gov.jm/News/news_creative_works.php http://www.miic.gov.jm/News/news_sector_collaborate_food_safety.php Minister of Industry, Investment and Commerce, Karl Samuda, has said that food safety is an important issue, which requires collaboration among the various sector interests for the prevention of food-borne diseases. Fri, 28 Nov 2008 12:35:00 EST http://www.miic.gov.jm/News/news_sector_collaborate_food_safety.phpm http://www.miic.gov.jm/News/news_caymanas_economic_zone_advanced_preparations.php Preparations are well advanced for the establishment of the Caymanas Economic Zone in St. Catherine, with development expected to begin within a few months, with a view to begin employing persons, particularly in the Information and Communication Technology (ICT) industry, within two years. Fri, 21 Nov 2008 14:42:00 EST http://www.miic.gov.jm/News/news_caymanas_economic_zone_advanced_preparations.php http://www.miic.gov.jm/News/news_small_business_new_loan_facility.php The Jamaica Business Development Corporation (JBDC) is urging entrepreneurs, small business interests and operators, to access the new loan facility that is available for the micro and small business sector. According to Chief Executive Officer at the JBDC, Valerie Veira, the Government has allocated a sum of $150 million to the corporation, for on-lending to micro and small businesses. Fri, 21 Nov 2008 14:28:00 EST http://www.miic.gov.jm/News/news_small_business_new_loan_facility.php http://www.miic.gov.jm/News/news_industry_minister_focus_training_workers.php Minister of Industry, Investment and Commerce, Karl Samuda, has said that he will be working with private sector groups to focus on the training of workers at all levels within the workplace. Fri, 21 Nov 2008 14:04:00 EST http://www.miic.gov.jm/News/news_industry_minister_focus_training_workers.php http://www.miic.gov.jm/News/news_govt_micro_fund_services_under_jbdc.php Minister of Industry, Investment and Commerce, Karl Samuda, has said that the Government will be seeking to collapse the Self Start Fund (SSF) and the Micro Investment Development Agency (MIDA) and placing these services under the umbrella of the Jamaica Business Development Corporation (JBDC). Fri, 14 Nov 2008 09:45:00 EST http://www.miic.gov.jm/News/news_govt_micro_fund_services_under_jbdc.php http://www.miic.gov.jm/News/news_ja_sixty_kilo_tonnes_rice_guyana_2009.php Guyana is to supply Jamaica with an average of 5,000 metric tonnes of rice per month at market prices, starting January 1, 2009 and continuing through to the end of the year. Thu, 13 Nov 2008 09:45:00 EST http://www.miic.gov.jm/News/news_ja_sixty_kilo_tonnes_rice_guyana_2009.php http://www.miic.gov.jm/News/news_samuda_ja_diaspora_local_investment.php Minister of Industry, Investment and Commerce, Karl Samuda, has urged members of the Jamaica U.S.A Chamber of Commerce (JAUSACC) in Florida, to consider investing locally, primarily in the areas of telecommunications, manufacturing, agriculture, and agro-processing. Thu, 13 Nov 2008 09:44:00 EST http://www.miic.gov.jm/News/news_samuda_ja_diaspora_local_investment.php http://www.miic.gov.jm/News/news_minister_eyes_mexico.php Minister Samuda, who is on a two-day visit to Mexico City to attend a Ministerial meeting on regional cooperation on science and technology organized by the Organistion of American States, used the opportunity to engage the Mexican business community in direct dialogue. Fri, 31 Oct 2008 09:44:00 EST http://www.miic.gov.jm/News/news_minister_eyes_mexico.php http://www.miic.gov.jm/News/news_reduced_food_prices.php Industry, Investment and Commerce Minister, Karl Samuda, has said that consumers should begin to see a significant reduction in the prices of basic food items over the next six to eight weeks. Fri, 31 Oct 2008 09:43:00 EST http://www.miic.gov.jm/News/news_reduced_food_prices.php http://www.miic.gov.jm/News/news_reduced_demand_scrap_metal.php The current global crisis has negatively impacted Jamaica’s scrap metal trade, resulting in reduced demand for the product overseas, Industry, Investment, and Commerce Minister, Karl Samuda has said. Speaking at a media briefing at the Ministry’s New Kingston offices on October 24, Minister Samuda siad the crisis has left many dealers “stuck with products” purchased, which they are unable to export. Fri, 31 Oct 2008 09:42:00 EST http://www.miic.gov.jm/News/news_reduced_demand_scrap_metal.php http://www.miic.gov.jm/News/news_no_jbdc_bureaucracy.php Industry, Investment and Commerce Minister, Karl Samuda, is dispelling claims of bureaucratic challenges in sourcing credit and loan facilities, which have been levelled against the Jamaica Business Development Centre (JBDC). An agency of the Ministry, the JBDC facilitates the development of businesses, through the provision of consultancy and training in specialist and general areas. Fri, 31 Oct 2008 09:41:00 EST http://www.miic.gov.jm/News/news_no_jbdc_bureaucracy.php