Jamaicans overseas urged to take advantage of ‘unprecedented economic growth’
JAMAICAN NATIONALS living overseas are being encouraged to take advantage of the sustained growth in the economy by investing in the country.
Minister of State in the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Foreign Trade, Alando Terrelonge, in making the call, said that the country is experiencing unprecedented growth and development and “it is a great place to make some money”.
Terrelonge, who was speaking in an interview on IrieJ am Radio, which is based in New York City, highlighted opportunities in various sectors such as construction, which he noted is a booming industry.
“For the first time in some 40 years, our exports in Jamaica have exceeded our imports. The Jamaican economy is growing, the rest of the world is doing great business in Jamaica, and we are saying to members of the diaspora, this is your opportune time to come home and invest in Jamaica,” he said.
He cited the Jamaica Social Stock Exchange (JSSE) as an avenue for persons to support community development.
The JSSE ensures that people interested in contributing and improving the quality of life in Jamaica are enabled to invest in wholesome projects that promote the socio-cultural economy and the protection of the physical environment.
“It is a great way to tie your funding to social projects,” Terrelonge said, noting that persons can invest from anywhere in the world that they are located.
Terrelonge said that the Government sees the diaspora as a strategic partner in building a “very strong Jamaica, for all Jamaicans”, and is urging persons to participate in the upcoming 10th Biennial Jamaica Diaspora Conference.
The four-day event is scheduled to take place from June 16-19 in Montego Bay, St James.
“We are encouraging all Jamaicans. Montego Bay is the place to be for the conference because it is your country and your voice,” Terrelonge said.
The event will provide an inclusive platform for enhancing and propelling development, with special attention to and regard for critical sectors of Jamaican life, especially health and education.