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News
Chinese want Kingston Wharves
By Paul Henry Observer staff reporter henryp@jamaicaobserver.com
Monday, March 08, 2010
EMERGING world economic empire China could be the new owner of the Kingston Container Terminal if ongoing negotiations with the Jamaica Government are successful.
Investment and Commerce Minister Karl Samuda, confirmed the negotiations with China last Friday and noted that the sale, along with the slated development of the Caymanas industrial Park, St Catherine and that of Vernamfield in Clarendon, could net the country over US$6 billion.
"We are actively negotiating with the Chinese to acquire the Kingston Container Terminal and the reason for that is it would make the Caymanas economic zone much more attractive," Samuda told the Observer.
"What I can tell you is that the project I'm talking about -- the port, the Kingston Freezone, the Tinson Pen lands the Caymanas lands linking into Vernamfield (by rail) -- we are looking at a US$6 billion dollar investment," said Samuda.
He said that the negotiations had been going on for more than a year and noted that it will be some time before any deal is inked.
Samuda described the sale and development projects as the country's last "great chance" out of its economical "rut" and provide the kind of jobs needed to tackle unemployment.
"That's the kind of investment that can take us out of our rut. It's our last great chance of creating the jobs and enriching our country through the proper utilisation of assets that are attractive," said Samuda.
"It is the last chance we have. It's the best opportunity we have and that's why we are pushing so hard to get investors, who have the capital and the willingness to share this with us and we feel satisfied that the Chinese are the ones that are best suited for that right now because we have not had the kind of interest and support that has been expressed by the Chinese," the minister said.
Samuda said that under the development plan, the Tinson Pen Aerodrome would be relocated, possibly to the sprawling Caymanas lands in St Catherine. He said also that Vernamfield, could become an airstrip that could be utilised for cargo and maintenance of aircraft.
Samuda said that Middle East countries, such as Kuwait, have expressed "sufficient interest" in the development projects and that a contingent from Jamaica would be travelling to that region later this year to secure investments.
"What we want now is positive-minded people who will encourage us in pursuit of this," Samuda said.
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kt mk
3/8/2010
L.Man
A very good out look for development in Jamaica...But why sell 100% of the Wharves..why not have a 60-40% or 70-30% or even a 80-20% deal with them.
Why not hold a portion of this wharve for the Jamaican ppl...for too long Jamcan gov have been selling all the infastructures own by the Jamaican ppl...Time now to sell portions and lay claim another half for nationalization.
3/8/2010
L.Man
A very good out look for development in Jamaica...But why sell 100% of the Wharves..why not have a 60-40% or 70-30% or even a 80-20% deal with them.
Why not hold a portion of this wharve for the Jamaican ppl...for too long Jamcan gov have been selling all the infastructures own by the Jamaican ppl...Time now to sell portions and lay claim another half for nationalization.
Aldo Plunko
3/8/2010
THERE IS NOTHING WRONG WITH SELLING. BUT IF YOU NEED TO SELL, YOU MUST SELL FINISH GOODS OR RAW MATERIAL. HERE WE GO AGAIN. The Government of Jamaica is so desperate for money that they are willing to sell anything that they can. but what they fail to realize is that certian assets CAN NOT, AND SHOULD NOT BE SOLD. To the best of my Knowledge, there isn't a single port in the UNITED STATES that is foreign owned. There are ports that are operated by outsiders. but these ports are leased. In China itself. The Chinese will not allow outsiders to own anything in the country. If you want to set up shop, you need to do it with a chinese partner. The Jamaican Government needs to learn from the Chinese. In the 1880's the Chinese expeled the Brithish from main land China. In order to stay close to China, and continue trade The British had to leased Hong Kong from the Chinese. The lease agreement was for 100 years. it expired in 1996. and now a beautiful and well develop Hong Kong belongs to the Chinese. The reason the Chinese want to buy the Jamacian port is simple. Jamaican is central and the most important component in their newly developed plan for central and south american. The Chinses need a central port to sort all of their goods that are going to and from China. Jamaica is the only place that offer this. The jamaican port sits right in the middle of the operation. Jamaica has the same advantage has Singapore. Singapore sits right in middle East Asia. most of the goods from that region ships through Singapore. The country gets about half of its revenue from the ports. The Jamaican Government need to develop a joint venture with the chinese. Right now the chinese needs us more than we need them. but, we are too hungry to realize this. The hunger has affected our brain. Today , Brazil export more goods to China than the US, Its only a mater of time before the rest of Central and South american joins Brazil. like I stated before, The Chinese needs a place to sort all of this goods. Its much cheaper to have all the goods come to jamaica and then delivered from Jamaica to their respected ports in China. GOVERNMENT OF JAMAICA PLEASE TAKE NOTE. YOU NEED TO START THINKING LIKE YOU ARE RUNNING A BUSINESS. YOU NEED TO LOOK DOWN THE ROAD. YESTERDAY IS GONE, BUT THE FUTURE IS YET TO COME.
3/8/2010
THERE IS NOTHING WRONG WITH SELLING. BUT IF YOU NEED TO SELL, YOU MUST SELL FINISH GOODS OR RAW MATERIAL. HERE WE GO AGAIN. The Government of Jamaica is so desperate for money that they are willing to sell anything that they can. but what they fail to realize is that certian assets CAN NOT, AND SHOULD NOT BE SOLD. To the best of my Knowledge, there isn't a single port in the UNITED STATES that is foreign owned. There are ports that are operated by outsiders. but these ports are leased. In China itself. The Chinese will not allow outsiders to own anything in the country. If you want to set up shop, you need to do it with a chinese partner. The Jamaican Government needs to learn from the Chinese. In the 1880's the Chinese expeled the Brithish from main land China. In order to stay close to China, and continue trade The British had to leased Hong Kong from the Chinese. The lease agreement was for 100 years. it expired in 1996. and now a beautiful and well develop Hong Kong belongs to the Chinese. The reason the Chinese want to buy the Jamacian port is simple. Jamaican is central and the most important component in their newly developed plan for central and south american. The Chinses need a central port to sort all of their goods that are going to and from China. Jamaica is the only place that offer this. The jamaican port sits right in the middle of the operation. Jamaica has the same advantage has Singapore. Singapore sits right in middle East Asia. most of the goods from that region ships through Singapore. The country gets about half of its revenue from the ports. The Jamaican Government need to develop a joint venture with the chinese. Right now the chinese needs us more than we need them. but, we are too hungry to realize this. The hunger has affected our brain. Today , Brazil export more goods to China than the US, Its only a mater of time before the rest of Central and South american joins Brazil. like I stated before, The Chinese needs a place to sort all of this goods. Its much cheaper to have all the goods come to jamaica and then delivered from Jamaica to their respected ports in China. GOVERNMENT OF JAMAICA PLEASE TAKE NOTE. YOU NEED TO START THINKING LIKE YOU ARE RUNNING A BUSINESS. YOU NEED TO LOOK DOWN THE ROAD. YESTERDAY IS GONE, BUT THE FUTURE IS YET TO COME.
Wayne L
3/8/2010
Let's face it people, the American companies have all ran to China for cheaper labor. None stopped in Ja or the other Caribbean islands. Jamaica is strapped for cash. At the same time, you naysayers are clamoring for government to provide everything for you. What you all should do is begin preparing yourselves to grab the opportunities as they present themselves. As much as I don't like the idea of our assets being sold to forreigners, we must understand that the capital does not exist in Ja to undertake these massive projects. Therefore, it only stands to reason that we seek those that are capable. We should be vigilant that the government seek the best possible deal for the country and not settle for selling cheaply like the other innept administration that had ruled for 18 yrs.
The airports are not owned by forreigners as one poster mentioned and many of the other enterprises that have been sold were owned by private individuals. This kind of development will no doubt be good for small businesses. Large business need help from smaller ones. We all should rally behind the minister on this one while holding him accountable every step of the way.
3/8/2010
Let's face it people, the American companies have all ran to China for cheaper labor. None stopped in Ja or the other Caribbean islands. Jamaica is strapped for cash. At the same time, you naysayers are clamoring for government to provide everything for you. What you all should do is begin preparing yourselves to grab the opportunities as they present themselves. As much as I don't like the idea of our assets being sold to forreigners, we must understand that the capital does not exist in Ja to undertake these massive projects. Therefore, it only stands to reason that we seek those that are capable. We should be vigilant that the government seek the best possible deal for the country and not settle for selling cheaply like the other innept administration that had ruled for 18 yrs.
The airports are not owned by forreigners as one poster mentioned and many of the other enterprises that have been sold were owned by private individuals. This kind of development will no doubt be good for small businesses. Large business need help from smaller ones. We all should rally behind the minister on this one while holding him accountable every step of the way.
Marlon Gillette
3/8/2010
This is another in a long ,long list of items that are being sold to foreigners for investment purposes. Joint venture is just another term for the Jamaican people being given whatever debt was incurred throughout the life of the institution. Trinidad and Barbados own the banking and Insurance sectors, Trinidad now OWNS the "National Airline". explain this to me all you people who think this is a good thing. when everyone except Jamaicans own Jamaica, what will my Daughter and grandchildren grow up to be?????? a bag of servant who work profits for people whose only interest is to turn over a profit in Jamaica....since unno love farin suh much, wah mek unno nuh go ova deh... lef di place to people who want to improve it.....dat include the current crop of POLITICIANS TOO!!!!!
3/8/2010
This is another in a long ,long list of items that are being sold to foreigners for investment purposes. Joint venture is just another term for the Jamaican people being given whatever debt was incurred throughout the life of the institution. Trinidad and Barbados own the banking and Insurance sectors, Trinidad now OWNS the "National Airline". explain this to me all you people who think this is a good thing. when everyone except Jamaicans own Jamaica, what will my Daughter and grandchildren grow up to be?????? a bag of servant who work profits for people whose only interest is to turn over a profit in Jamaica....since unno love farin suh much, wah mek unno nuh go ova deh... lef di place to people who want to improve it.....dat include the current crop of POLITICIANS TOO!!!!!
Wharf Dawg
3/8/2010
This is an interesting development. For one the Chinese never invest in a project and not retain all the management positions.
I have just completed a course called Chinese Businesses and Economy and while the Chinese have done some pragmatic investments abroad, they are not in the business of charity. I would caution the government to look at Chinese investments in Africa and some of our neighbors in Latin America before they sign off on any deals.
Furthermore I would like the readers to inform themselves also by visiting this paper via the link below
http://www.fas.org/sgp/crs/row/R40361.pdf
3/8/2010
This is an interesting development. For one the Chinese never invest in a project and not retain all the management positions.
I have just completed a course called Chinese Businesses and Economy and while the Chinese have done some pragmatic investments abroad, they are not in the business of charity. I would caution the government to look at Chinese investments in Africa and some of our neighbors in Latin America before they sign off on any deals.
Furthermore I would like the readers to inform themselves also by visiting this paper via the link below
http://www.fas.org/sgp/crs/row/R40361.pdf
Rodney Hubbard
3/8/2010
Jamaica has sold most of her assets and she still has no money... what makes you think this will be any different? 6 billion dollars will be gone and the people will have nothing but broken promises... what a pity...
3/8/2010
Jamaica has sold most of her assets and she still has no money... what makes you think this will be any different? 6 billion dollars will be gone and the people will have nothing but broken promises... what a pity...
Naj Johnson
3/8/2010
I think it is reasonable to assume that the Chinese want to use Jamaica as a trans-shipment point mainly for products that they sell in North America. Of course, they will also be happy to sell more of their products in Jamaica. But one should keep in mind that Jamaica imports many products from places other than China. I think Mr. Samuda should let the public know what terms are being reached for Jamaican imports that are not from China. Because the Chinese will have much to gain from blocking such imports. In short, we may well be creating a monopoly for the Chinese to have on our imports. In the future, we may find ourselves with little or no choices on the products that enter our country. And, what opportunities we expect to come from this deal will not be realized or maybe bad for us. We may find ourselves having to tell our children that we had to use inferior building materials in the Caymanas Developments because those are the only ones we could import. So kids please do not be bothered by the look of that crooked building. It will not topple over.
3/8/2010
I think it is reasonable to assume that the Chinese want to use Jamaica as a trans-shipment point mainly for products that they sell in North America. Of course, they will also be happy to sell more of their products in Jamaica. But one should keep in mind that Jamaica imports many products from places other than China. I think Mr. Samuda should let the public know what terms are being reached for Jamaican imports that are not from China. Because the Chinese will have much to gain from blocking such imports. In short, we may well be creating a monopoly for the Chinese to have on our imports. In the future, we may find ourselves with little or no choices on the products that enter our country. And, what opportunities we expect to come from this deal will not be realized or maybe bad for us. We may find ourselves having to tell our children that we had to use inferior building materials in the Caymanas Developments because those are the only ones we could import. So kids please do not be bothered by the look of that crooked building. It will not topple over.
A. Croft
3/8/2010
Have all the options been examined? How about the assemblage of a good management team to manage the wharf. What kind of development is needed at the wharf? How expensive? If this can be done by Jamaicans and the revenue remains in the country that would be better. An airport can be built anywhere a wharf is geographically fixed. I do not like the idea of wharf being sold to a foreign country. It is like losing part of your soverignty.
Quick cash is not always the best. Allow some time for the country's economy to stabilize and use the funds from the wharf to manage the wharf.
3/8/2010
Have all the options been examined? How about the assemblage of a good management team to manage the wharf. What kind of development is needed at the wharf? How expensive? If this can be done by Jamaicans and the revenue remains in the country that would be better. An airport can be built anywhere a wharf is geographically fixed. I do not like the idea of wharf being sold to a foreign country. It is like losing part of your soverignty.
Quick cash is not always the best. Allow some time for the country's economy to stabilize and use the funds from the wharf to manage the wharf.
Steve Allen
3/8/2010
I have read all of the comments, but what you guys are missing is that the development is good for Jamaica, but what Mr Samuda has signed with the Chinese Government is what percentage or how much tax is the Jamaican Government will be getting off each shipment of goods they will be shipping to Jamaica.
Moreover the Jamaican Government should be investing at least US$5 Billion of that US$6 Billion into planting food products that is so much needed in China.
Those planes from China will be bringing goods to Jamaica , after they unload their goods, we should be loading our food products in thouse planes to sell in China. So the deal is a very good deal, it is for the Jamaican Government to use their heads and get smart.
3/8/2010
I have read all of the comments, but what you guys are missing is that the development is good for Jamaica, but what Mr Samuda has signed with the Chinese Government is what percentage or how much tax is the Jamaican Government will be getting off each shipment of goods they will be shipping to Jamaica.
Moreover the Jamaican Government should be investing at least US$5 Billion of that US$6 Billion into planting food products that is so much needed in China.
Those planes from China will be bringing goods to Jamaica , after they unload their goods, we should be loading our food products in thouse planes to sell in China. So the deal is a very good deal, it is for the Jamaican Government to use their heads and get smart.
Leopold McPherson
3/8/2010
They havent got the slightest clue of what to do and on top of it all they constantly lie to the Jcans people.
3/8/2010
They havent got the slightest clue of what to do and on top of it all they constantly lie to the Jcans people.
Noel Richards
3/8/2010
This will be one of the biggest mistakes Jamaica could ever make. China is not an emerging superpower, that is hype. China and the US are on a collision course. Because the US has pumped trillions of dollars of investment into China since the 70's, to build demand for US products from China's billion people population, the Chinese Government's behavior in not playing nice is finally backfiring. It will take another 5-10 years before the realities of the US-China relationship gets fleshed out, but it won't be a nice sight. The kinds of reactionary policies that Jamaican Governments love to take always leaves Jamaicans holding the nasty end of the stick. Why do Jamaicans feel that partnering with China in order to service the US is the best route? Do you really think that the Chinese give a damn about Jamaica and Jamaicans? Dream on.
3/8/2010
This will be one of the biggest mistakes Jamaica could ever make. China is not an emerging superpower, that is hype. China and the US are on a collision course. Because the US has pumped trillions of dollars of investment into China since the 70's, to build demand for US products from China's billion people population, the Chinese Government's behavior in not playing nice is finally backfiring. It will take another 5-10 years before the realities of the US-China relationship gets fleshed out, but it won't be a nice sight. The kinds of reactionary policies that Jamaican Governments love to take always leaves Jamaicans holding the nasty end of the stick. Why do Jamaicans feel that partnering with China in order to service the US is the best route? Do you really think that the Chinese give a damn about Jamaica and Jamaicans? Dream on.
duncan bell
3/8/2010
Karl it sound very good! But you must be more positive.
It's not the last chance for jamaica. Though i'm not in
favour of foreigners owning most of our asset, but since
our own jamaican are afraid of doing big investment, let
them keep buying government papers. I hope the chinese
sign this deal. the government has the responsibility to
to set up infrastructure so the jamaican people can have
a better life but if they can't provide those facility then they
have to turn to the willing.
3/8/2010
Karl it sound very good! But you must be more positive.
It's not the last chance for jamaica. Though i'm not in
favour of foreigners owning most of our asset, but since
our own jamaican are afraid of doing big investment, let
them keep buying government papers. I hope the chinese
sign this deal. the government has the responsibility to
to set up infrastructure so the jamaican people can have
a better life but if they can't provide those facility then they
have to turn to the willing.
donny schwartz
3/8/2010
You are all missing the point. In order for the development to take place we need capital. Our local business men apparently do not have access to the type and amounts of capital needed hence we need foreign investrors. The model is a joint venture (JV) where the gov't will retain a stake on behalf of the Jamaican people thereby securing a part of whatever profits are made. Stop being so alarmist and negative. All we have to do is ensyre that our people are propererly trained and prepared to take advantage of the job opportunities and have the labour ministry set a quota for chinese nationals who come to work there. You are all too quick to see the downside of things. It wouldnt be so bad if you saw the downside and then recommended ways to fix it. Come on man, this is the 21st century, and erra of global cooperation. Nuttin wrong wid di plan as long as the gov't execute it in the interest of the country.
3/8/2010
You are all missing the point. In order for the development to take place we need capital. Our local business men apparently do not have access to the type and amounts of capital needed hence we need foreign investrors. The model is a joint venture (JV) where the gov't will retain a stake on behalf of the Jamaican people thereby securing a part of whatever profits are made. Stop being so alarmist and negative. All we have to do is ensyre that our people are propererly trained and prepared to take advantage of the job opportunities and have the labour ministry set a quota for chinese nationals who come to work there. You are all too quick to see the downside of things. It wouldnt be so bad if you saw the downside and then recommended ways to fix it. Come on man, this is the 21st century, and erra of global cooperation. Nuttin wrong wid di plan as long as the gov't execute it in the interest of the country.
Ras Benji
3/8/2010
Development and economic progress walk hand-in-hand. Jamaica has in the recent past suffered from a lack of both. This type of development requires planning, expertise, financing, and vision, all of which are lacking in the Jamaican 'money class' presently. Mr. Samuda is on the right track, large developments often generate many smaller ones to support it. There's exponential benefits that will be realised, including the encouragement of other large investors to find reason to look at Jamaica as worthy of investing, and making money. That's the engine that drives the economy---the ability to generate profits on your investment. Keep up the work Mr. Samuda.
One Love!
3/8/2010
Development and economic progress walk hand-in-hand. Jamaica has in the recent past suffered from a lack of both. This type of development requires planning, expertise, financing, and vision, all of which are lacking in the Jamaican 'money class' presently. Mr. Samuda is on the right track, large developments often generate many smaller ones to support it. There's exponential benefits that will be realised, including the encouragement of other large investors to find reason to look at Jamaica as worthy of investing, and making money. That's the engine that drives the economy---the ability to generate profits on your investment. Keep up the work Mr. Samuda.
One Love!
Fabian Campbell
3/8/2010
As much as I'm agains government owing these valuable assets because of their track record in running them efficiently, I'm very sceptic putting the same assets in foriegners hands. I'm with privitisation but we have to look at the overall interest of Jamaica. Foriegners come in bought these assets at a very low percent age in the dollar, milk-ed these assets then turn around and sell them for a price X2,X3,X4, sometime X5 what they purchase it for. There are many negative ramifications for an outsider owning any of these assets;
1. The higher scale job in these organzations are given to citizens from the company origin. This negatively affect our Gross National Product (GNP).
2.Foriegn owners most times disobey government environmental regulations because of the "SOFT TOUCH" approach government applied to them
3. Jamaica interest is secondary to foriegn owners etc.
JPS is a perfect reference for all I've stated above. All I'm saying is the government must be careful and remove the dark glasses over their eyes so they can see must clarer and further.
3/8/2010
As much as I'm agains government owing these valuable assets because of their track record in running them efficiently, I'm very sceptic putting the same assets in foriegners hands. I'm with privitisation but we have to look at the overall interest of Jamaica. Foriegners come in bought these assets at a very low percent age in the dollar, milk-ed these assets then turn around and sell them for a price X2,X3,X4, sometime X5 what they purchase it for. There are many negative ramifications for an outsider owning any of these assets;
1. The higher scale job in these organzations are given to citizens from the company origin. This negatively affect our Gross National Product (GNP).
2.Foriegn owners most times disobey government environmental regulations because of the "SOFT TOUCH" approach government applied to them
3. Jamaica interest is secondary to foriegn owners etc.
JPS is a perfect reference for all I've stated above. All I'm saying is the government must be careful and remove the dark glasses over their eyes so they can see must clarer and further.
D Ranks
3/8/2010
I am reminded of the man who sold his soul to the devil. Down on his luck he made a deal with the devil and in the end paid a heavy price. Successive government of Jamaica have opted to take the easy way out of the economic bind they themselves put us in, selling off bits of Jamaica to foreigners. Now it is the Chinese's intention of buying up large swats of land, commercial concerns, wharves, airports and pretty soon everything that look like it can make a buck. What will jamaicans do in the future when Chinese nationals start coming to operate these facilities, as have had happened in other countries, they will sit and watch, or get the scraps.
Recently in one country, in Arica, I think it was, there was a riot because Chinese nationals were being given the jobs the natives wanted, and by all rights should have. What then is in store for Jamaicans, apart from 6 billion US dollars, a drop in the bucket over a few years and it still won't solve any of our problems.
Carl Samuda, I bet with one foot in and one foot out, can engineer all of this but in the end it is the Jamaicans who will have to pay. We are selling every thing off to foreigners, I wonder how the Jamaican business man feels as this is showing up their incompetence. May be a long time MP, now dead, was right when he refered to business men in Jamaica is just a bunch of harberdashers.
Why is it good business to sell off our inherited rights. Does Carl Samuda think this came easy. He is putting us right back where we started, albeit, under a different title and new masters. He will cripple our independence by giving so much to foreigners.
What is next onthe list of sell offs?
3/8/2010
I am reminded of the man who sold his soul to the devil. Down on his luck he made a deal with the devil and in the end paid a heavy price. Successive government of Jamaica have opted to take the easy way out of the economic bind they themselves put us in, selling off bits of Jamaica to foreigners. Now it is the Chinese's intention of buying up large swats of land, commercial concerns, wharves, airports and pretty soon everything that look like it can make a buck. What will jamaicans do in the future when Chinese nationals start coming to operate these facilities, as have had happened in other countries, they will sit and watch, or get the scraps.
Recently in one country, in Arica, I think it was, there was a riot because Chinese nationals were being given the jobs the natives wanted, and by all rights should have. What then is in store for Jamaicans, apart from 6 billion US dollars, a drop in the bucket over a few years and it still won't solve any of our problems.
Carl Samuda, I bet with one foot in and one foot out, can engineer all of this but in the end it is the Jamaicans who will have to pay. We are selling every thing off to foreigners, I wonder how the Jamaican business man feels as this is showing up their incompetence. May be a long time MP, now dead, was right when he refered to business men in Jamaica is just a bunch of harberdashers.
Why is it good business to sell off our inherited rights. Does Carl Samuda think this came easy. He is putting us right back where we started, albeit, under a different title and new masters. He will cripple our independence by giving so much to foreigners.
What is next onthe list of sell offs?
Doug Campbell
3/8/2010
Welcome to Independent Jamaica where the National Airline is sold to Foreigners, also the Cement ,Soft Drinks,Insurance,Flour Mills Companies.All the Major Hotels and Airports are owned by Foreigners (therefore they effectively run our Tourism). The enclave of West Kingston is now an Independent State called Tivoli Gardens presided over by a President Called Dudus. Criminals receive their Weapons from the Police Stores. And last but not least the Chinese will construct our Foreign Affairs Building and will also purchase our Waterfont and Ship Terminal. Well since their is simply nothing more to sold off i will simply say
Happy Independence Jamaica.
3/8/2010
Welcome to Independent Jamaica where the National Airline is sold to Foreigners, also the Cement ,Soft Drinks,Insurance,Flour Mills Companies.All the Major Hotels and Airports are owned by Foreigners (therefore they effectively run our Tourism). The enclave of West Kingston is now an Independent State called Tivoli Gardens presided over by a President Called Dudus. Criminals receive their Weapons from the Police Stores. And last but not least the Chinese will construct our Foreign Affairs Building and will also purchase our Waterfont and Ship Terminal. Well since their is simply nothing more to sold off i will simply say
Happy Independence Jamaica.
C. Brown
3/8/2010
Any investments that is good for the country is always welcome. We can't survive without any kind of sustainable investments. But we must be careful not to sell the country short. The Kingston wharves over the years have expanded rapidly under gov'm control, and does appear to be profitable, so why not keep it in the hands of Jamaica? It makes more sense to source foreign investments for the railway, Caymanas, and Vernamfield, since we don't have the required capital. Mr. Samuda, any established crown corporation that is profitable, like the Wharves, should be kept in the hands of Jamaica. The foreigners did a good job with the airports, highways; we hope they can do the same with the railway, Caymanas and Vernamfield... But keep the Wharves!
3/8/2010
Any investments that is good for the country is always welcome. We can't survive without any kind of sustainable investments. But we must be careful not to sell the country short. The Kingston wharves over the years have expanded rapidly under gov'm control, and does appear to be profitable, so why not keep it in the hands of Jamaica? It makes more sense to source foreign investments for the railway, Caymanas, and Vernamfield, since we don't have the required capital. Mr. Samuda, any established crown corporation that is profitable, like the Wharves, should be kept in the hands of Jamaica. The foreigners did a good job with the airports, highways; we hope they can do the same with the railway, Caymanas and Vernamfield... But keep the Wharves!
D Malcolm
3/8/2010
At this rate Jamaica is bound to become more of a nation for expats like Barbados. We're selling EVERYTHING?!
Surely not right to give up your soul for "Success" is it?
3/8/2010
At this rate Jamaica is bound to become more of a nation for expats like Barbados. We're selling EVERYTHING?!
Surely not right to give up your soul for "Success" is it?
Richard Edwards
3/8/2010
Jay Brown,
On a recent trip to Barbados, I happened to be sitting in a little restaurant in Bridgetown (the Capital City), an older lady struck up a conversation with me, she detected that I was from Jamaica, you know the Jamaican accent can't hide, she said to me "you know what is the you all problem in Jamaica", I said no, I don't know, she said 'you all treat you politicians in Jamaica like them celebrities, and thats why they don't bother to do anything over there, becuase celebrities don't have to do anything'. She said in Barbados, no one treats a politicans like celebrities, and whenever they run into a politican in the streets, they are quick to point out what neeeds to be done that has not been done. Conversely, when we Jamaicans run into our politicians, we somehow think that we are priviliged to be in the company of the elites. This is a big part of our problem in Jamaica. Politicians get away with all kind of stuff, that they would never stand a chance of getting away with in other countries. For example, I learned that there is no such thing as a private beach in Barbados, becuase the government of that country understand that the beaches belong to the people, not so in Jamaica, I have been on beaches that I have been told that I cannot go beyond certain parameters, thanks to our so-called leaders, they are a bunch of you know what, yet we still have some people who can see no wrong that they have committed against the Jamaican people, although they have so many things to remind of the wrongs successive governemnts have done to them, you mentioned one of them, they fact that jamaicans pay the highest electricty rates in the entire Caribbean and probably the world, even higher than Haiti. We need a political Make over in Jamaica. Maybe the Jalpa should consider forming a new political party, I believe anything would be better that what the people currently have. We need a new political party in Jmaica, wake up all Jamaicans at home and abroad, lets take back our country!
Richard Edwards. New York City
betterlifeforjamaicans@yahoo.com
3/8/2010
Jay Brown,
On a recent trip to Barbados, I happened to be sitting in a little restaurant in Bridgetown (the Capital City), an older lady struck up a conversation with me, she detected that I was from Jamaica, you know the Jamaican accent can't hide, she said to me "you know what is the you all problem in Jamaica", I said no, I don't know, she said 'you all treat you politicians in Jamaica like them celebrities, and thats why they don't bother to do anything over there, becuase celebrities don't have to do anything'. She said in Barbados, no one treats a politicans like celebrities, and whenever they run into a politican in the streets, they are quick to point out what neeeds to be done that has not been done. Conversely, when we Jamaicans run into our politicians, we somehow think that we are priviliged to be in the company of the elites. This is a big part of our problem in Jamaica. Politicians get away with all kind of stuff, that they would never stand a chance of getting away with in other countries. For example, I learned that there is no such thing as a private beach in Barbados, becuase the government of that country understand that the beaches belong to the people, not so in Jamaica, I have been on beaches that I have been told that I cannot go beyond certain parameters, thanks to our so-called leaders, they are a bunch of you know what, yet we still have some people who can see no wrong that they have committed against the Jamaican people, although they have so many things to remind of the wrongs successive governemnts have done to them, you mentioned one of them, they fact that jamaicans pay the highest electricty rates in the entire Caribbean and probably the world, even higher than Haiti. We need a political Make over in Jamaica. Maybe the Jalpa should consider forming a new political party, I believe anything would be better that what the people currently have. We need a new political party in Jmaica, wake up all Jamaicans at home and abroad, lets take back our country!
Richard Edwards. New York City
betterlifeforjamaicans@yahoo.com
Richie L
3/8/2010
This could be good; and I use the word could, because I have heard these grand proposals before. Anyone remember that the Chinese were supposed to help rehabilitate the railroads and then the Indians?
.
The fact of the matter is the Chinese will not be taking over these projects unless it makes sense, business sense that is.
.
And I don't like this minister talking about "It is the last chance we have...". It is never the last chance for something like this. As long as there is life, there is never a last chance. That is the resignation of a loser. Why is this man in charge with an attitude like that?
.
While I welcome these big investments, I don't think enough emphasis is put on small business. Small businesses are the basis of a strong economy in most of the developed world. The government needs to create a development bank that caters just to small businesses. Service is generally poor or lacking in Jamaica and there is a need for small businesses providing services of all kinds.
.
To all those poster talking about foreigners owning Jamaica, stop to think. Do our private investors have the means, expertise or balls to take on all these projects? The airports are vastly improved because foreigners saw the opportunity where Jamaicans didn't see it. Are the airports going anywhere because they are "foreign-owned"? The "owners" can't take them out of Jamaica; the airports will be there to serve all travelers going into and out of Jamaica. And that is all that should matter. BTW, from what I heard the airports are being managed in long term contracts by these foreign operators. They do not own the airports.
.
Look at the beautiful highway that we have. If it wasn't for foreign money, there would be none. And now that local investors see the opportunities for operating a toll road, how come they have not come forward to invest their money to finish the last legs of the road?
.
Many Jamaicans with the means are investing their money into other countries while neglecting Jamaica. And that is the crux of this whole thing, money is not patriotic; money goes where it can make more. That is how it works.
.
We should be thankful foreigners are investing in Jamaica and stop this resistance to them, talking about foreigners taking over Jamaica.
.
Richie
3/8/2010
This could be good; and I use the word could, because I have heard these grand proposals before. Anyone remember that the Chinese were supposed to help rehabilitate the railroads and then the Indians?
.
The fact of the matter is the Chinese will not be taking over these projects unless it makes sense, business sense that is.
.
And I don't like this minister talking about "It is the last chance we have...". It is never the last chance for something like this. As long as there is life, there is never a last chance. That is the resignation of a loser. Why is this man in charge with an attitude like that?
.
While I welcome these big investments, I don't think enough emphasis is put on small business. Small businesses are the basis of a strong economy in most of the developed world. The government needs to create a development bank that caters just to small businesses. Service is generally poor or lacking in Jamaica and there is a need for small businesses providing services of all kinds.
.
To all those poster talking about foreigners owning Jamaica, stop to think. Do our private investors have the means, expertise or balls to take on all these projects? The airports are vastly improved because foreigners saw the opportunity where Jamaicans didn't see it. Are the airports going anywhere because they are "foreign-owned"? The "owners" can't take them out of Jamaica; the airports will be there to serve all travelers going into and out of Jamaica. And that is all that should matter. BTW, from what I heard the airports are being managed in long term contracts by these foreign operators. They do not own the airports.
.
Look at the beautiful highway that we have. If it wasn't for foreign money, there would be none. And now that local investors see the opportunities for operating a toll road, how come they have not come forward to invest their money to finish the last legs of the road?
.
Many Jamaicans with the means are investing their money into other countries while neglecting Jamaica. And that is the crux of this whole thing, money is not patriotic; money goes where it can make more. That is how it works.
.
We should be thankful foreigners are investing in Jamaica and stop this resistance to them, talking about foreigners taking over Jamaica.
.
Richie
Wharf Dawg
3/8/2010
Sounds good on paper, but where are the long term plans to address issues such as water and roads to facilitate these developments?
It is time we look at using the Rio Grande as a source of water for the KMA and stop authorizing housing developments until adequate water supplies are identified.
3/8/2010
Sounds good on paper, but where are the long term plans to address issues such as water and roads to facilitate these developments?
It is time we look at using the Rio Grande as a source of water for the KMA and stop authorizing housing developments until adequate water supplies are identified.
A. Croft
3/8/2010
Has Mr. Samuda read his job description as a Member of Pariament? Does he know what he is supposed to be doing and the major issues on which he should be focused?
If the Chinese acquire the Wharf who will benefit from the revenues? How many jobs will be created by such an acquisition? Who will get those jobs? Chinese? Some things may look good on "paper" but in reality could stink.
3/8/2010
Has Mr. Samuda read his job description as a Member of Pariament? Does he know what he is supposed to be doing and the major issues on which he should be focused?
If the Chinese acquire the Wharf who will benefit from the revenues? How many jobs will be created by such an acquisition? Who will get those jobs? Chinese? Some things may look good on "paper" but in reality could stink.
JA Cynic
3/8/2010
It would be very interesting to discern what is the response of the USA to this proposed Chinese incursion/economic influence in Jamaica.Coupled with the Chinese offer to assist in the building of our Foreign Affairs HQ downtown, the much- talked about Chinatown, road reconstruction etc. etc. is there is the likelihood of China replacing the old "imperialist"?
Mandarin will soon be taught in schools if were are to cope with the new reality.
Do the Chinese have any interest in our closed bauxite/alumina plants?
No problem; most of us like Chinese food!
JA Cynic
3/8/2010
It would be very interesting to discern what is the response of the USA to this proposed Chinese incursion/economic influence in Jamaica.Coupled with the Chinese offer to assist in the building of our Foreign Affairs HQ downtown, the much- talked about Chinatown, road reconstruction etc. etc. is there is the likelihood of China replacing the old "imperialist"?
Mandarin will soon be taught in schools if were are to cope with the new reality.
Do the Chinese have any interest in our closed bauxite/alumina plants?
No problem; most of us like Chinese food!
JA Cynic
Jay Brown
3/8/2010
I am not excited at all and why, well its because I cannot trust these guys to do what is in the best interest of the country.
Just think about what is happening here and tell me if its not frightening.
1. Our electrical supplier is owned by foreigners.
2. One airport is already owned by foreigners.
3. Norman Manley Intl (the next) is up for sale to foreigners.
4. Cement the main building block for construction is owned by foreigners.
5. Our banks are mainly owned by foreigners.
6. Now our water port - ie wharf is about to be sold off.
7. Our best beaches are owned by foreigners.
So this is what we have.
1. Every port of entry to Jamaica will be owned by foreigners (air and sea).
2. The main utility has already gone that route and we are paying dearly as the company does not have to be efficient, they simply ask ( THEM) I mean OUR for an increase.
3. Cement Company once it was taken over by foreigners was given protection so they could expand, we have had two increase since the expansion which was supposed to have made them more efficient and lower their cost of manufacturing.
Very soon visiting Jamaicans will need a visa to enter the country, thanks to our short sighted, shall we call them leader.
Well they have been anything but leaders.
We may soon hear, that they have put up Jamaica for sale !!
3/8/2010
I am not excited at all and why, well its because I cannot trust these guys to do what is in the best interest of the country.
Just think about what is happening here and tell me if its not frightening.
1. Our electrical supplier is owned by foreigners.
2. One airport is already owned by foreigners.
3. Norman Manley Intl (the next) is up for sale to foreigners.
4. Cement the main building block for construction is owned by foreigners.
5. Our banks are mainly owned by foreigners.
6. Now our water port - ie wharf is about to be sold off.
7. Our best beaches are owned by foreigners.
So this is what we have.
1. Every port of entry to Jamaica will be owned by foreigners (air and sea).
2. The main utility has already gone that route and we are paying dearly as the company does not have to be efficient, they simply ask ( THEM) I mean OUR for an increase.
3. Cement Company once it was taken over by foreigners was given protection so they could expand, we have had two increase since the expansion which was supposed to have made them more efficient and lower their cost of manufacturing.
Very soon visiting Jamaicans will need a visa to enter the country, thanks to our short sighted, shall we call them leader.
Well they have been anything but leaders.
We may soon hear, that they have put up Jamaica for sale !!
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