The American Chamber of Commerce of Jamaica is partnering with the US Department of Commerce’s Commercial Service, and the US Embassy in Jamaica to host a Caribbean Region Virtual Trade Mission on December 1, starting at 10:00 a.m.

The virtual trade mission has as its title/platinum sponsor, NCB Capital Markets Limited and New Fortress Energy, a silver sponsor. With the anticipated participation of numerous American businesses representing various industries, the event presents an excellent opportunity for Jamaican businesses to expand their network of business contacts in the United States of America.

Some 100 Americans companies have already confirmed their participating at this event which is being held virtually because of the restrictions associated with the COVID-19 health and safety protocols. Among the sectors participating are construction, energy, tourism, finance, food & beverage, engineering, solar power, medical, cosmetics, telecommunications, agriculture, IT, the auto industry, aviation and nutraceuticals.

Michael Lee-Chin, chairman of Jamaica’s Economic Growth Council, will be the keynote speaker.

Given the fact that the COVID-19 pandemic has left no one unscathed and significantly impacted businesses and the local economy, this virtual trade mission will allow Jamaican companies to take advantage of business opportunities garnered from participating in this event. The trade mission seeks to strengthen supply chains by connecting with potential business partners in the US, Jamaica’s main trade partner.

Presentations will come from Audley Shaw, minister of industry, investment and commerce; Christian Herman, international trade specialist on renewable energy and thermal power at the U.S. Department of Commerce, and Carolyn McDonald Riley, director of the Tourism Linkages Network at the Tourism Enhancement Fund.

Following the presentations, there will be a panel discussion moderated by Allison Peart, chairperson of AMCHAM Jamaica’s Trade and Investment Committee, with panelists Anne McKinney, vice president, Americas at the US Chamber of Commerce in Washington DC.; Steven Gooden, CEO, NCB Capital Markets; and Ian Forbes, managing director, Sherwin Williams.

The afternoon session will be dedicated to one-on-one networking between Jamaican and US companies. The event will enable Jamaican businesses to make links with companies from the US, allowing buyers and suppliers to meet virtually while exchanging business needs and offerings.

Participants will also get updates on various sectors in Jamaica. AMCHAM Jamaica President Ann-Dawn Young Sang is encouraging Jamaican companies and businesses to take advantage of the virtual trade mission, which provides a great opportunity for them and Jamaica on a whole.

According to Young Sang, “At a time when companies are watching their bottom line, this virtual event means a business owner will not have to hop on a plane or find hotel accommodation to go and meet with US companies.”

Young Sang said the virtual trade mission will also create a great business opportunity to open up new or additional corridors.

“It will be a win-win situation for both local and US companies,” she added. The cost to participate is US$100 for AMCHAM members and US$200 for non-members.