PLANS to allow local publishers and printers to bid for contracts to produce books for the state-funded billion dollar textbook programme will be in force for the 2014 academic year.

The plans are spearheaded by the Ministry of Education and the Jamaica Manufacturers’ Association (JMA).

The texts will be for the revised curriculum prepared for all grades by the ministry which will take effect in 2016.

Education Minister Ronald Thwaites said Cabinet has a keen interest in fostering the increased use of Jamaican authors, publishers and printers in the provision of materials for Jamaican and Caribbean schools.

“Provided that comparable quality, delivery times and prices can be achieved, both the Ministry of Education and the JMA are committed to supporting the local industry, enhance employment and produce more relevant course material,” he said.

JMA President Brian Pengelly maintained that a solution was now present to improve the book industry.

The ministry said they would welcome proposals from local manufacturers on how they could meet other needs of the education system.