AGP Executive Report

Coffee Production: Blue Mountain coffee output has fallen to 191,000 boxes, a 25-year low, against reported demand of 350,000 boxes in Japan. Mavis Bank Coffee Factory’s managing director is seeking J$300 million a year for five years to help farmers raise production. Export Trade: Eight Indigenous women entrepreneurs from Jamaica, Belize and Dominica are heading to Canada for meetings with buyers and partners in Winnipeg and Toronto. Tourism: Jamaica is targeting 400,000 Canadian airline seats for winter bookings as it rebuilds after Hurricane Melissa; the island welcomed more than 2.34 million stopover and cruise visitors from January to August, with about 80 per cent of rooms operating. Small Business Recovery: A J$500-million hurricane recovery programme offers eligible small businesses grants of up to J$350,000, plus up to J$100,000 for tools, equipment and stock. Water Costs: Corporate Area restrictions remain despite recent rain, with Mona Reservoir at 36.2 per cent capacity. Business groups are also opposing the NWC’s proposed 51 per cent rate increase.

Water Supply: Corporate Area restrictions remain despite recent rain, with Mona Reservoir at 36.2% capacity and Hermitage Dam at 48.8%. The NWC is also facing broad opposition to its proposed 51% rate increase. Tourism Recovery: Jamaica is marketing 400,000 available Canadian airline seats for the winter season, aiming to turn added airlift into bookings and income for tourism businesses. Small-Business Support: A J$500-million recovery programme will offer hurricane-hit businesses grants of up to J$350,000, with additional help for tools, equipment and stock. Disaster Recovery: A CAPRI report found just J$26.2 million of J$1.4 billion in Melissa donations had been spent four months after the storm, flagging delays in relief and school recovery. Transport: Knutsford Express’ first-quarter profit fell 19% to J$53.7 million as fuel costs rose more than 41%, though revenue grew 5.5%. Remittances: Jamaicans overseas sent US$3.12 billion home in the 2025–26 fiscal year, including US$93 million more in the three months after Melissa than a year earlier.

Water Utility: The NWC has outlined a five-pillar plan to improve service and reduce financial risk as it faces opposition to a proposed 51 per cent rate increase. The measures include cutting water losses, overhauling energy use and commercialising land. Transport Costs: Knutsford Express reported a 19 per cent drop in first-quarter profit to J$53.7 million, despite revenue growth, as fuel costs rose more than 41 per cent. Retail: Fontana is expanding its Óra beauty range to compete for Jamaica’s J$1.4-billion makeup market, with CEO Anne Chang saying demand remains strong. Recovery Funding: A CAPRI report found just J$26.2 million of J$1.4 billion in Melissa donations had been spent four months after the storm, citing delays in approvals and gaps in repair records. Investment and Rebuilding: Margaritaville Jamaica plans a public share offering within 90 days, while officials are urging diaspora investors to back recovery projects in areas including energy, agriculture, logistics and tourism. Remittances reached US$3.12 billion in 2025/26.

Diaspora Recovery: Jamaicans overseas are being urged to invest in post-hurricane rebuilding, including housing, renewable energy, agriculture and tourism. Remittances reached US$3.12 billion in 2025/26, with inflows rising by US$93 million in the three months after Hurricane Melissa. Small-Business Support: JPs are being asked to help verify hurricane-hit informal businesses seeking grants from a $500-million recovery programme. Eligible operators may receive up to $350,000, plus up to $100,000 for damaged tools, equipment or stock. Government Efficiency: Prime Minister Andrew Holness says changes to cut red tape and improve public service are coming. Senator Cleveland Tomlinson is calling for a clearer plan to develop industries where Jamaica can compete and export. Utility Costs: Business and tourism groups are among those opposing the National Water Commission’s proposed 51 per cent tariff increase, warning of the impact on customers and operating costs. Food Security: Agriculture Minister Floyd Green says targeted support for vegetable production should help ensure adequate supplies for Christmas despite weather-related disruption.**

Digital Payments: JETS says a cyberattack hit limited internal systems, not the MultiLink or ACH networks. Names of some transfer recipients and card numbers in historical files may have been exposed; PINs and security codes were not stored. Food and Farming: Agriculture Minister Floyd Green expects adequate Christmas supplies and plans to boost vegetable production, though market prices remain high after recent rain. Water Infrastructure: The proposed 51 per cent NWC rate increase faces opposition from business groups, while economist Damien King says a substantial rise is needed to fund ageing infrastructure. Tourism: Jamaica is targeting about 400,000 Canadian airline seats for winter bookings, with a five-city campaign to support visitor demand and recovery. Diaspora Finance: Jamaicans overseas sent US$3.12 billion home in 2025/26, including an extra US$93 million in the three months after Hurricane Melissa. Local Business: JBDC is urging companies to choose Jamaican-made Christmas gifts to help local producers rebuild sales. Roads: The Government says a wider rehabilitation plan is coming for western Jamaica, including the Montego Bay-to-Savanna-la-Mar corridor.

Diaspora Finance: Jamaicans overseas sent home US$3.12 billion in remittances in 2025/26, including an extra US$93 million in the three months after Hurricane Melissa. Buy Jamaican: The JBDC is urging companies to source Christmas gifts from local makers, helping small businesses rebuild sales and operations. Water Costs: The NWC’s proposed 51% rate increase faces broad business opposition, though economist Damien King says higher rates are needed to fund repairs to ageing infrastructure. Tourism: Edmund Bartlett is taking Jamaica’s recovery pitch to five Canadian cities, aiming to turn about 400,000 available winter airline seats into bookings. Renewable Energy: Wigton says delays finalising a power-purchase agreement with JPS are holding up financing for more than 70 megawatts of planned solar generation. Auto Sales: Bert’s has expanded beyond parts retail, partnering with Dongfeng to sell seven vehicle models in Jamaica.

Reconstruction Spending: Western businesses are being urged to prepare for NaRRA’s expected infrastructure programme. NCB says it will offer financing to help contractors and suppliers manage working-capital needs. Water Costs: Business and consumer groups oppose NWC’s proposed 51% tariff increase, urging the OUR to demand better service and leak reduction before costs rise. YEA is also calling for consultation and a phased increase if approved. Agriculture: A US$50-million climate grant will support weather technology, pilot plots and about US$3 million in recovery aid for farmers affected by Hurricane Melissa. Tourism & Fisheries: Iberostar brought tourism, fisheries and conservation groups together to strengthen local seafood supplies to hotels. Property & Film: Kingston’s K2 waterfront development has sold 75% of its 119 apartments, while film production spending fell 54% to US$4.91 million in 2025 as the hurricane disrupted filming.

Water Costs: Business groups, hoteliers and consumer advocates oppose the NWC’s proposed 51% tariff increase, citing high costs, water shortages and leaks. The OUR is expected to consult the public before deciding. Agriculture: The Government is exploring irrigation technologies to strengthen farming resilience and food security. Reconstruction: Industry Minister Aubyn Hill says $2.4 billion of reconstruction financing is intended to flow through private businesses. Local Enterprise: Treasure Beach’s Food, Rum & Reggae Festival returns November 6–8, with an artisan village showcasing Jamaican businesses and products and partnerships supporting farmers and fisherfolk. Industry Outlook: The JMEA says limited research and development is holding back manufacturing and exports, while the IMF has cut its 2027 growth forecast for Jamaica to 2.4%. Energy: A study is assessing rig availability and supply-chain needs for potential offshore oil drilling.

Water Costs: Opposition, small businesses and hoteliers are urging the regulator to reject or scrutinise the NWC’s proposed 51% tariff hike, citing high operating costs and doubts about the utility’s project planning and finances. The government says higher revenue is needed to repair ageing infrastructure and improve supply. Manufacturing: The JMEA says limited research funding, outdated technology and skills shortages are holding back manufacturers and exporters. Imports reached US$3.9 billion in the first five months of 2026, against exports of US$675 million. Buy Jamaican: JBDC is urging businesses to choose locally made Christmas gifts, aiming to restore demand and sales for producers still recovering from Hurricane Melissa. Tourism Insurance: Hotels are exploring pooled insurance arrangements to improve bargaining power and claims settlements; 61% of tourism operators who filed hurricane claims were still awaiting full payment. Oil Exploration: United Oil has completed a rig and logistics study for potential offshore drilling, outlining equipment and supply-chain needs for the Walton-Morant licence.

Roads and Logistics: Works Minister Robert Morgan says a permanent fix is identified for Lucea’s Seaview Drive, a key corridor carrying about 15,000 vehicles daily. He urged residents and businesses to be patient as rehabilitation begins. Tourism Security: TPDCo handed the JCF seven vehicles worth about $20 million to improve safety patrols in resort areas. Business Costs: The NWC is seeking a 51 per cent rate increase amid $33.2 billion in debt. The Small Business Association says the utility should repair leaking pipes before asking customers to pay more. Economic Outlook: The IMF cut Jamaica’s 2027 growth forecast to 2.4 per cent and now projects zero growth in 2026. Energy Prospects: An offshore study is assessing rig availability and supply-chain needs for future drilling, as United Oil maps out next steps for Jamaican targets. Transport and Tourism: Government is advancing the Lionel Densham Aerodrome project in St. Elizabeth, welcomed by the hotel sector as a boost to access and recovery. Commercial Enforcement: The Financial Investigations Division secured a $62-million penalty from a businessman convicted of selling counterfeit goods.

Water Costs: The NWC is seeking a 51 per cent tariff increase, drawing alarm from the Small Business Association, which says businesses and households are already under strain. Climate Risk: Central Bank Governor Larry Howai warned that climate change threatens financial stability, citing Hurricane Melissa’s estimated US$8.8-billion damage bill and its impact on food prices. Tourism Investment: Margaritaville Jamaica plans a public share offering within 90 days, giving investors a chance to buy into its local operations. Food Supply: Jamaica faces further price pressure as global food costs rise and local agriculture continues to recover from Melissa. Offshore Energy: A new study assessed rigs and supply-chain needs for possible drilling off southern Jamaica, but United Oil & Gas says there is no commitment to drill. South Coast Access: The JHTA backs the proposed Lionel Densham Aerodrome as a boost to tourism, investment and recovery in St. Elizabeth.

Utilities: The National Water Commission has applied for a 51 per cent tariff increase, affecting about 500,000 customers if approved. The OUR will consult the public before making a decision. Tourism and Transport: The JHTA backs the proposed Lionel Densham Aerodrome in St. Elizabeth, citing improved access for visitors, investors and local businesses. The Government is completing technical studies, with a revised proposal targeted for submission by December 23. Agriculture: Seprod says stray cattle are damaging pasture in St. Thomas and driving up feed costs, while lowering milk production. The company, farmers and public agencies are pursuing a joint solution. Business Productivity: PwC Jamaica’s Jossett Francis-Wint says local businesses are lagging in using AI to raise productivity, pointing to gaps in technology investment and worker training. Cost of Living: Inflation reached 8.6 per cent in September, its highest level since December 2022, with food prices among the pressures. Energy: Wigton Energy has cut more than $800 million in debt ahead of a planned solar push.

Productivity & AI: PwC Jamaica’s Jossett Francis-Wint says local businesses are lagging in AI adoption, with too little investment in technology and worker training to boost productivity. Regional Investment: The US announced more than US$340 million for Caribbean initiatives, including US$175.8 million for resilient undersea cable links, and plans an investment summit for 2027. Standards & Exports: Industry Minister Aubyn Hill wants the Bureau of Standards Jamaica’s applied science and standards turned into marketable products and services for local and export markets. The Bureau also recognized 150 volunteer technical experts. Jamaican Tech: AIBotics acquired NovaCore Labs’ operating assets, including 10 robots, six drones and mapping equipment, to build AI, mapping and automation services from Jamaica and expand regionally. Economic Pressures: September inflation reached 8.6%, its highest level since December 2022, while the IMF lowered its outlook for Jamaica’s 2027 growth.

Standards and Innovation: Industry Minister Aubyn Hill wants the Bureau of Standards Jamaica’s applied science and technical expertise turned into products and services that can compete at home and abroad. A new BSJ campaign will also help businesses use testing, training and certification to strengthen their operations. Technology: AIBotics has acquired NovaCore Labs’ robots, drones, mapping assets and software, expanding its platform and operations in Jamaica and the Caribbean. Trade and Logistics: Jamaica Customs is deploying scanning technology and working with port partners to speed cargo clearance ahead of the Christmas rush. Tourism Investment: Jamaica’s first licensed casino is scheduled to open at Princess Grand Jamaica in February 2027, adding gaming and entertainment jobs to the resort’s offering. Business and Food Security: Applications to the MSME Restoration Grant Programme are nearing 1,500, while the Senate has passed resolutions to increase investment in irrigation. Economic Pressures: September inflation reached 8.6 per cent, its highest level since December 2022, and the IMF has lowered its forecast for Jamaica’s 2027 growth.

Technology: AIBotics has acquired NovaCore Labs’ Jamaican operating assets, including service robots, drones, mapping equipment and software, giving the company a base to expand across Jamaica and the Caribbean. Trade and Logistics: Jamaica Customs is rolling out scanning technology and pre-arrival declarations to speed cargo clearance and ease port congestion ahead of the Christmas rush. Business Support: The Bureau of Standards Jamaica’s new “From Standards to Success” campaign will help businesses use training, testing and certification to improve quality and compete for markets. Tourism: CMEx will honour Tourism Ministry Permanent Secretary Jennifer Griffith for her role in destination planning, sector investment and the tourism workers’ pension scheme. Food Security: OECS agriculture ministers meeting in Jamaica called for faster action on regional food security, including stronger inter-island shipping links and harmonised standards.

Food Industry: The Health Ministry is considering tougher measures to curb unhealthy consumption, including a ban on trans fats, which could affect food manufacturers and importers. A Cabinet submission is planned. Agriculture: The Senate approved irrigation orders for Pedro Plains and Braco, supporting more reliable water access for farmers. The Government aims to expand land served by irrigation by 15 per cent by 2030. Tourism: The sector is projected to reach 88 per cent recovery by December and full recovery by May 2027. Winter airlift is forecast at 1.3 million seats, 23 per cent above last year. Cost of Living: Annual inflation rose to 8.6 per cent in September, driven largely by food prices; vegetables and other produce rose sharply, adding pressure on households. Technology: Jamaican and regional businesses are adopting AI tools, while consultations on the country’s national AI policy are expected to begin within a month. Renewable Energy: Wigton Energy has cut more than $800 million in debt ahead of a planned solar push.