‘Jamaica open for business’

The Investing in Jamaica and Housing Forum, set to take place tomorrow at the Pyramid Club in Philadelphia and May 8 at Resorts World New York City, is expected to connect members of the Jamaican diaspora and potential investors with expanding economic opportunities in Jamaica.

The events were announced by Alsion Wilson, Jamaica’s consul general in New York, who noted that Jamaica’s economy is experiencing robust growth, with a projected real GDP increase of 1.0 per cent to 3.0 per cent for the 2025-2026 fiscal year.

This positive outlook is underpinned by expansions in agriculture, electricity and water supply, and the tourism sector, with a government commitment to fiscal discipline and strategic reforms credited with positioning Jamaica as a prime destination for investment in the Caribbean region.

“We are particularly excited to highlight Jamaica’s Special Economic Zones, which offer investors significant tax incentives, including a reduced corporate income tax rate of 12.5 per cent, with potential further reduction to 7.5 per cent through additional tax credits,” said Wilson. “These incentives represent our government’s dedication to creating a business-friendly environment that attracts sustainable foreign investment.”

Forum attendees will engage directly with representatives from leading Jamaican institutions and agencies, including Victoria Mutual Group, Jamaica National Group, Tax Administration Jamaica, Jamaica Promotions Corporation, Jamaica Special Economic Zone Authority, Keller Williams Jamaica Realty, and TCF Holdings Limited, developers of the Sun Coast Beach Club. These organisations will provide comprehensive insights into investment opportunities, financial services, real estate developments, and Jamaica’s regulatory landscape.

During the New York forum, Senator Aubyn Hill, Jamaica’s minister of industry, investment, and commerce, is expected to discuss Jamaica’s strategic initiatives to attract foreign investment, the benefits of special economic zones, and the country’s vision to become a logistics and manufacturing powerhouse in the Caribbean.

The Philadelphia session tomorrow will feature focused panel discussions on investing in Jamaica via the Jamaica Stock Exchange and navigating the Jamaican housing market, with presentations by Victoria Mutual Group, Jamaica National Group, and Tax Administration Jamaica.

The New York session offers a comprehensive programme beginning with morning presentations on the real estate market by Keller Williams, Jamaica Realty and business opportunities with JN Group and VM Group. Afternoon panels will cover doing business in Jamaica and opening a brokerage account, while evening sessions will feature Hill’s keynote address and discussions on emerging markets and housing investments.

In addition to the scheduled presentations, attendees will have opportunities for one-on-one meetings with booth-holders to discuss specific interests and explore personalised investment pathways.

“We cordially invite all interested investors and members of the Jamaican diaspora to join us for these informative and potentially life-changing events,” added Wilson. “Jamaica is open for business, and we are eager to showcase the tremendous opportunities available in our beautiful island nation.”