The Jamaica Manufacturers and Exporters Association (JMEA) extends congratulations to the Jamaica Labour Party (JLP) on securing a third consecutive term in government, which it calls an unprecedented milestone that demonstrates the confidence of the Jamaican people.

“We also commend the People’s National Party (PNP) for a well-fought campaign, underscoring the strength of Jamaica’s democracy and the maturity of its electorate.

“Amidst reports of technical challenges and slow processes at polling stations, the JMEA acknowledges that this election nevertheless demonstrated the maturity of Jamaica’s democracy and the overall effectiveness of the electoral system,” the JMEA said in a release.

At the same time, the JMEA strongly encourage the Electoral Office of Jamaica (EOJ) to collect data, address reported issues, and implement corrective measures to further safeguard credibility. The JMEA said ensuring that our electoral system remains free, fair, and efficient must remain a top priority.

“Of equal concern is the persistently low voter turnout—only 39.5% in what was expected to be a highly contested election—along with ongoing questions about the accuracy of the voters’ list compared with national demographics. Restoring confidence and strengthening participation in the electoral process must therefore be central objectives in the period ahead.”

The JMEA added: “For the incumbent JLP Government, this historic third term is both a privilege and a solemn responsibility. The mandate reflects trust, but it must never be mistaken for a licence to rule with arrogance.

“The Government must stay firmly on the path of partnership and consultation, upholding the highest standards of accountability. Above all, it must renew its focus on driving public-sector effectiveness, which is essential to strengthening Jamaica’s competitiveness on the global stage. Following the results at the poll, and with this renewed mandate, the Government has an obligation to ensure adequate fiscal and capital space to advance projects in a timely manner.

“We note the breadth of the JLP’s manifesto—including commitments carried forward since 2016—and emphasise that the time has come for decisive, measurable implementation. Energy security requires urgent, practical attention. With the renegotiation of the Jamaica Public Service (JPS) licence and its expiry in less than a year, the Government must secure competitive, reliable, and cleaner energy sources, reduce system losses, and address long-standing issues—such as electricity theft and grid inefficiencies—that drive up costs for businesses and households.

‘The outcome of this process will be pivotal to Jamaica’s industrial competitiveness for the next decade. Equally, Jamaica must urgently accelerate financing for development, as too many projects remain stalled in bureaucracy. While due process must be respected, the Government must insist on greater efficiency from public bodies so project funding is approved without undue delay.

“These delays create ripple effects that stifle growth and investment. The need is especially urgent for long-awaited programmes to upskill workers in manufacturing, logistics, and technical trades—initiatives critical to boosting productivity, adopting new technologies, and creating higher-wage jobs. Notably, this project remains stuck at the Public Investment and Appraisal Branch (PIAB), which continues to be a major bottleneck for approving development projects.”

JMEA President Kathryn Silvera stated: “We need to use the next five years to drive growth, increase productivity, and fix crime. This historic third term signals confidence—but it also demands humility, accountability, and action. Energy reform and skills financing cannot wait. The business community stands ready to partner with the Government to execute, so Jamaica can compete and win.”

The JMEA calls for broad, evidence-based stakeholder consultations on all critical policy decisions— particularly on adjustments to the minimum wage.

“We note the Prime Minister’s proposal to double the minimum wage during this third term. However, such a move must be grounded in the economic realities Jamaica faces, ensuring that policies are balanced, sustainable, and directly linked to productivity growth. Jamaica’s productive sector stands ready to collaborate with the Government and all stakeholders in pursuit of a shared vision: a competitive, resilient, and prosperous Jamaica.”