Jamaica

In 2003, Jamaica recorded record level of FDI inflows, a trend that shows no sign of slowing, particularly in the tourism sector. The country, a key member of the Caribbean Common Market, is strategically located just 1000 miles from the US and so provides investors with access to both these markets. A range of goods produced by Jamaica also enjoys preferential access to the EU. And implementation of the Free Trade Area of the Americas agreement in 2005 will open up markets across these regions.

To help investors to capitalise on these opportunities, Jamaica offers a range of investor-friendly incentives, good infrastructure and a highly skilled workforce. Improvements to infrastructure include the liberalisation of the telecommunications sector and substantial investment in the Kingston Containerised Trans-shipment Port, a state-of-the-art hub between North and South America. The road network has also been upgraded, stimulating development in areas close to new routes.

Jamaica has a long history of stable democracy and has one of the most liberalised and modern regulatory environments in the western hemisphere. There are no constraints to capital flows in and out of the country; exchange controls have been removed; and the government has implemented tough legislation to protect the integrity of the financial system. Its priority investment sectors include IT, tourism, agribusiness, manufacturing, minerals and chemicals, and textiles.