KINGSTON, Jamaica — Wide-scale consultations are now underway as part of the Government’s plan to develop a new Art, Craft and Souvenir Policy for Jamaica, to enable the sector to realize its full potential. 

The initiative, which is being spearheaded by the Ministry of Tourism and Entertainment, is being undertaken in conjunction with the Tourism Product Development Company (TPDCo), Ministry of Industry, Investment and Commerce, the Jamaica Business Development Corporation (JBDC) and other government ministries and agencies.

“We have undertaken another phase of consultations with craft traders, producers and other stakeholders in the industry. This follows on initial meetings which were held with craft traders, who were among the first groups we met with when this administration assumed office,” said Minister of Tourism and Entertainment, Wykeham McNeill.

As part of this initiative the Ministry held a Public Consultation with members of the craft sector at Sunset Jamaica Grande Resort and Spa in Ocho Rios recently.

“Our discussions form part of our policy programme as we work towards developing a wider policy to govern the sector and foster its development. This will facilitate the improvement of craft overall as we seek to increase the sale of craft items to visitors thereby increasing the visitor spend,” the tourism minister said.

According to State Minister for Tourism and Entertainment, Damion Crawford, the new initiative will aid in developing the craft industry into a more prosperous one. 

“If we can show that money can be made from craft, then more people will go into it and you will have product diversification, an improvement in quality and standards as well as a better relationship in the development of craft in Jamaica.”