Jamaica Promotions Corporation (JAMPRO) is on course to exceed its buyer recruitment target ahead of Expo Jamaica 2025, scheduled for April 3 to 6 at the National Arena and National Indoor Sports Centre in Kingston.
As the premier trade show in the English-speaking Caribbean, Expo Jamaica provides a platform for businesses to connect, expand, and build lasting partnerships.
According to JAMPRO President Shullette Cox, whose remarks were delivered by Vice President of Export Sonja Linton, the agency has already secured 90 per cent of the 700 targeted buyers. The event was officially launched on Thursday at The Jamaica Pegasus Hotel in Kingston under the theme: "Global Partnerships, Local Impact: Advancing Jamaica’s Reach."
The launch attracted ambassadors from China, Cuba, Russia, Chile, Spain, and Belgium, as well as diplomats from India, Nigeria, the United States, and Canada.
Cox commended the Jamaica Manufacturers and Exporters Association (JMEA) for its ongoing commitment to export-led growth.
“JAMPRO is proud to partner with JMEA in recruiting buyers and facilitating business growth. This year, we anticipate record-breaking participation from exhibitors and buyers, highlighting the strength of Jamaica’s manufacturing and export sectors,” Cox stated.
She noted that Jamaica continues to attract buyers from regions including the Caribbean, Latin America, North America, Europe, and Africa. Countries such as Ecuador, Panama, Mexico, Chile, Peru, the Dominican Republic, Nigeria, Ghana, Oman, Macedonia, and India have already confirmed their participation.
For the first time, the event will introduce a dedicated forum on its opening day to facilitate direct discussions between buyers and suppliers, aiming to bridge market gaps and create new business opportunities.
Kamesha Blake, Executive Director of the Jamaica Manufacturers and Exporters Association (JMEA), emphasised the transformative impact of the event.
"Expo Jamaica is more than an exhibition; it is a catalyst for economic growth. By bringing together buyers and distributors from across the globe, we provide Jamaican businesses with an unparalleled opportunity to build and strengthen trade relationships—all in one place. This platform is especially vital for smaller companies that may not have the resources to travel and establish these connections independently. At Expo Jamaica, we are taking the world to Jamaican businesses, enabling them to thrive in competitive international markets."
JAMPRO’s Cox also emphasised the importance of showcasing innovation across Jamaica’s manufacturing, agriculture, food processing, fashion, and technology sectors.
“I encourage our suppliers, creators, and manufacturers to present their best products and services. This is an opportunity to showcase the quality and excellence of Jamaican-made goods,” she urged.
Beyond networking, the expo will offer market insights and investment opportunities, with JAMPRO playing a key role in supporting business growth and deal-making.
The launch event featured a festive outdoor setup, creating a welcoming atmosphere for attendees. Sponsors, including Digicel, Trend Media, Scotia, NCB, and GraceKennedy, demonstrated their support by presenting sponsorship cheques or large digital transfer receipts, symbolizing their financial commitment to the expo’s success.
Adding a creative touch, the event also featured a vibrant fashion show, which ran throughout the day, infusing energy and excitement into the celebration.
