Business View Caribbean - June 2016 63
ment of knowledge, skills, systems, and institutions.
“On the export side,” says Edwards, “we are focused
on fresh produce, processed food, manufacturing,
mining, and creative industries. We identify compa-
nies in those sectors and do an assessment of capac-
ity and abilities to penetrate international markets.
Once we have done this analysis, then we tailor-make
assistance programs to their needs.”
“For instance, one of the programs we have is called
‘Export Max,’” Edwards continues. “That program se-
lects a small number of companies to give them in-
depth assistance over a two- to three-year period. That
assistance can mean ideas and support for product
enhancement, product adaptation, changing packag-
ing labeling and size – really adapting the product to
make it more suitable to international market trends.
There is also a mentoring component within this pro-
gram, which encourages larger companies to help
smaller ones.”
JAMPRO also developed a National Export Strategy,
which examined different sectors of the economy, and
provided a roadmap for Jamaica to increase exports
in those sectors. “If you look at produce, for instance,
we’ve identified markets for sweet potato, yam, for
melons, and other fresh fruits. We work with associa-
tions like the Fresh Produce Consortium out of the UK,
to ensure that our local farmers are meeting interna-
tional specifications,” says Edwards. “We expect to see
a big expansion in that area in 2016,” she adds. “If you
look at limestone – we have very pure limestone in
Jamaica – and are currently shipping to places as far
