The Ministry of Investment and Commerce, in collaboration with the Jamaica Business Development Corporation (JBDC), hosted the Craft and Coffee event at The ROK in Kingston on Tuesday, March 11.

The initiative aimed to support and promote the local craft industry by providing artisans with networking opportunities and insights into the global market.

Permanent Secretary Sancia Bennett-Templer emphasised the business ministry’s efforts to enhance the visibility of Jamaica’s craft industry on the global stage.

followed by a programme introduction by Acting Senior Director of the Industry Division, MIIC, Liana Blake, Manager of the Marketing Services Division, JBDC, Janine Fletcher-Taylor, who gave their addresses before the keynote speech from Minister of Industry, Investment & Commerce, Senator Aubyn Hill. 

“Today’s event accomplishes a major objective of the National Craft Policy of Jamaica to expand the merchandising, retailing, and visibility of authentic Jamaican craft, visual arts, and souvenir products through the development of regular public intervention,” she said. “The commitment to continue to work with you to grow your business… Thinking about how we can improve what we do in the interest of Jamaican businesses”

Bennett-Templer highlighted the collaborative efforts to support exporters and the growth of Jamaican businesses.

She acknowledged the contributions of the Heart Trust NTA in aiding the MSME sector and praised the Edna Manley College for its role in training artisans and enhancing the quality of Jamaican craft.

She reaffirmed the ministry’s dedication to these initiatives and its associated agencies.

Portfolio minister Senator Aubyn Hill, in his keynote address at the ROK Hotel in downtown Kingston, stressed the sector’s role in Jamaica’s economic development.

“Jamaica is a nation of creators, innovators, and astute entrepreneurs,” Hill said. “Craft has long been a vital part of our identity and heritage. With the right investment in product development, marketing, and innovation, the sector has the potential to drive employment, and increase exports, and profits.”

Hill reiterated the government’s dedication to fostering a business-friendly environment, noting that profitability in industries such as craft translates into national benefits, including job creation and infrastructure development.

“My administration wants businesses to be successful,” he said. “If you are not successful, you can’t employ people, you can’t expand, and you can’t export. Profitability ensures we can build hospitals, and roads, and enhance the overall quality of life for Jamaicans.”

The event featured a panel discussion, an information exhibition, and networking sessions.

A key highlight was the Product Quality Awards Showcase, where artisans competed in categories such as ‘Best Souvenir Product’, ‘Best Interior Product’, ‘Best Corporate Gift’, ‘Best Jewellery Product’, and ‘Best Textile Product’.

The Craft and Coffee initiative aligns with the ministry’s hopes to position Jamaica as a leading player in the creative and cultural industries. Stakeholders believe that local artisans can maximise their potential in international markets.

More photos from the event: