Minister of Finance and Public Service, Dr Nigel Clarke, has hailed Jamaica’s economic resilience over the past 12 months, which has registered 10 consecutive quarters of economic growth, the second longest stretch since 1997.

A pivotal moment in the discussion was the revelation that Jamaica achieved its first current account surplus in over 30 years, accompanied by significant improvements in the balance of payments.

He made the commendations while speaking at Mayberry’s Investment Forum at the AC Marriott Hotel, the first in-person forum since the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic on Wednesday, January 17.

Speaking at the forum, Clarke said, “A decade of unbroken economic growth is no small feat and speaks volumes about the resilience and strength of the Jamaican economy. This sustained period of growth, spanning ten consecutive quarters, not only underscores our nation’s economic vitality but also demonstrates the commitment of the Jamaican people and businesses to overcoming challenges and driving prosperity.”

“It’s a testament to the collective effort and strategic initiatives that have propelled us forward, solidifying Jamaica’s position as a beacon of economic resilience in the region. As we celebrate this achievement, let it serve as a rallying call for continued collaboration and innovative approaches that will shape our economic landscape for years to come,” he continued.

Clarke pointed to a robust investment pipeline across various sectors, showcasing Jamaica’s commitment to fiscal responsibility and debt sustainability. Unemployment, a crucial economic indicator, reached record lows, impacting immigration discussions and highlighting the nation’s employment success.

The forum concluded with emphasis on the benefits of macroeconomic stability and a call to action for society to unite in safeguarding Jamaica’s economic achievements.

Christopher Berry, executive chairman of Mayberry Investments Limited (Mayberry), expressed sincere gratitude and admiration for the forum’s success, championing the continued prosperity of Jamaica’s economy.

“Reflecting on the fiscal trajectory discussed earlier and acknowledging the rare success achieved in Jamaica over our 60-year history is indeed a significant milestone. In 2014, recognising the positive trends highlighted by the Minister, we strategically moved assets back to Jamaica—a decision that has proven to be both prescient and lucrative. Standing on this foundation of prosperity, it is imperative to guard against any future alterations that may jeopardise the economic well-being of the Jamaican people,” said Berry.

“Thank you all for being a part of this journey, and we eagerly anticipate continued engagements, offering unparalleled insights and investment strategies. Thank you for celebrating the journey as we mark 37 years of excellence in investment banking and investing in Jamaica,” he continued.