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Jamaica’s agro-industrial value chains is poised for growth following the deepening of relations between Jamaica and Japan.

Through the relationship between the two countries, a total of USD$200,000 will be pumped into the agro-processing sector through the Japan-funded United Nations Industrial Development Organisation (UNIDO) project, Industrial Development and Technology Transfer among the Member States of the Caribbean Community.

Speaking at the Call for Applications Launch: Strengthening the Competitiveness and Resilience of MSMEs in Jamaica’s Agro-Industrial Value Chains, held Thursday, April 16, 2026 at the Jamaica Business Development Corporation’s (JBDC’s) Incubator and Resource Centre (IRC) in Kingston, Minister of Industry, Investment and Commerce, Senator the Honourable Aubyn Hill, made it clear that this initiative is a direct investment into Jamaica’s export future.

“Our agro-industrial sector still faces key constraints, low productivity, outdated technologies, limited value addition, climate vulnerabilities, and gaps in access to modern equipment and expertise. And of course, we need capital. This initiative addresses these shortcomings”, he noted.

Jamaica’s selection under the project also reflects a deepening relationship with Japan, which has increasingly positioned itself as a key development partner in supporting the country’s industrial and economic growth. The current initiative forms part of a wider CARICOM programme funded by the Government of Japan, with Jamaica identified as the demonstration country for the technology transfer component within the agro-industrial sector.

Through the UNIDO-led intervention, this collaboration is now being extended to directly support Micro, Small and Medium-Sized Enterprises (MSMEs), while also strengthening the institutional capacity of the JBDC to deliver more advanced, technology-driven support services. “What this programme actually delivers, this is a structured three-pronged intervention. The incubator support, which is here, the incubator includes a steam jacket kettle, hammer mill – I’ve seen it – the dehydrator, freeze dryer, density metre and screw press. This expands capacity and ensures agro-processors can continue to operate and grow,” Minister Hill added.

Japan’s Ambassador to Jamaica, Kohei Maruyama, says the partnership builds on years of cooperation between both countries, particularly in areas such as agriculture, manufacturing and capacity development, with Japan providing both financial and technical support to strengthen productivity and resilience within small island developing states.

“Today’s launch marks the furthest step in the longstanding and friendly relations between Japan and Jamaica. It also represents a key milestone in our cooperation, advancing a shared agenda toward sustainable economic growth,” he said.

He emphasised the central role of MSMEs in driving economic development and resilience. “At the same time, this initiative places a strong emphasis on supporting MSMEs, which are the backbone of Jamaica’s economy.

By strengthening these enterprises, we aim to improve productivity, enhance resilience, and promote inclusive growth. Particularly in the context of recent climate-related shocks, including Hurricane Melissa.” The initiative is expected to support MSMEs through technology transfer, capacity building and improved access to markets. Acting Chief Executive Officer of JBDC, Harold Davis, said the programme is designed to help businesses strengthen operations and compete more effectively.

“This call for applications is an opportunity for MSMEs to access exactly that, to restore operations, improve efficiency, enhance product quality and strengthen their ability to withstand future shocks.”

Through the call for applications mechanism being implemented in collaboration with JBDC, selected enterprises will receive integrated support packages combining access to appropriate equipment and technical advisory services.

This support will enable MSMEs to restore production, improve efficiency, enhance product quality, and build resilience to future shocks. Particular consideration will be given to enterprises affected by Hurricane Melissa, in line with the project’s adaptive, recovery-oriented approach.

Manufacturing enterprises that meet the following criteria can apply:

• Legally registered business in Jamaica
• Manufacturing enterprises affected by Hurricane Melissa
• Business in the following sectors: food/agro-processing, furniture and wood products, and wellness & cosmeceutical
• Commitment from the top management (in the form of a commitment letter)
• Assignment of focal person(s) for the project
• Data disclosure (related to production, finance, quality control, energy consumption, etc.)
• Women-led/women-dominated, youth-led/youth-dominated enterprises are strongly encouraged to apply.