Senator  Aubyn Hill, Minister of Industry, Investment and Commerce, Jamaica’s Business Ministry, representing Prime Minister Dr Andrew Holness, met with members of the Westmoreland Chamber of Commerce and Industry on Wednesday, July 22, 2026.

The engagement provided updates on Government’s response to Hurricane Melissa, measures to support business recovery, and opportunities to strengthen economic growth in a parish with approximately 10,000 registered companies.

Minister Hill acknowledged the challenges facing businesses in the aftermath of Hurricane Melissa, while emphasising that recovery must also serve as a platform to build resilience, expand Jamaica’s productive capacity and facilitate economic growth.

“Westmoreland has tremendous potential, and our job is to ensure that it is converted into economic growth and prosperity. Government will continue to put the systems in place to support businesses, but businesses must also look at where the opportunities are and where they can become specialists.

When entrepreneurs and businesses collaborate and invest strategically to meet market needs, we will create stronger companies and greater employment and profit opportunities for more Jamaicans,” said Senator Hill.

The Minister noted that discussions are underway regarding a proposed J$1 billion financing support arrangement, in collaboration with the Ministry of Finance and the Public Service (MoFPS) and the Development Bank of Jamaica (DBJ), to assist affected businesses in restoring operations and rebuilding capacity after Hurricane Melissa. He noted that the government had to act fast after Melissa – clear roads, fund JPS with US $150 million, restore residential roofs and schools, and, through this Business Ministry, restore 51 kiosk retail shops at Border, and loaned generators to businesses in the Hurricane Melissa-affected parishes.

Additional relief measures include proposed fee reductions at the Companies Office of Jamaica (COJ) ranging from 25 per cent to 70 per cent on applicable services, as well as the removal of late fees once the Ministerial Order is gazetted shortly.

Expanded online services for Renewal of Business Names and Status Quo Annual Returns are available, enabling faster processing including same-day service where requirements are met.

Minister Hill encouraged businesses to pursue growth in agriculture, agro-processing, cold storage, and other value-added industries, while developing specialised capabilities to strengthen competitiveness. He urged collaboration amongst business owners, using the Jamaica Stock Exchange (JSE) if necessary, through strategic partnerships and consortiums to access larger opportunities, improve efficiency, and enter new markets.

Minister Hill also highlighted the work of MIIC agencies such as the Jamaica Business Development Corporation (JBDC), which operates a Small Business Development Centre in Westmoreland, and the Jamaica Intellectual Property Office (JIPO), both providing technical assistance and tools to enhance competitiveness.

He further emphasised opportunities for MSMEs to access Government procurement contracts through initiatives led by the MIIC and the Public Procurement Commission, including the MSME Business Roadshows, as well as through opportunities arising under the National Reconstruction and Resilient Authority (NaRRA).

The engagement featured both a closed-door session with Chamber leadership and an open forum that facilitated a lively question-and-answer segment. Over 100 business owners and community representatives were in attendance and raised concerns directly with Minister Hill on issues affecting their operations, recovery, and growth. Stakeholders included representatives from the Westmoreland Municipal Corporation, Jamaica Constabulary Force (JCF), Western Regional Health Authority, and the Chamber of Commerce.

The Ministry of Industry, Investment and Commerce, together with its 20 agencies, remains committed to partnering with businesses and communities across Westmoreland and Jamaica to strengthen resilience and support sustained economic growth