Industry, Commerce, Agriculture and Fisheries Minister Karl Samuda says the Government is committed to facilitating the continued development of the micro, small and medium-size enterprise (MSME) sector, especially since it employs more than 90 per cent of the workforce.

“A critical element of our national development plan is to develop the capacity of the MSME sector and improve the channels through which they participate in economic activity,” he said.

The minister was speaking at the Jamaica Business Development Corporation’s (JBDC’s) ninth annual small business exposition, which was held at the Jamaica Pegasus Hotel in New Kingston, on Thursday, May 12, under the theme: ‘Opening the Door to Financing Opportunities’. The event provided an opportunity for small businesses to engage with financial outfits, while showcasing their products and services, networking, and exploring solutions to some of the challenges faced.

Samuda lauded the JBDC for its role in advancing the MSME sector over its 15 years of operation, and gave his commitment that the entity would continue to spearhead initiatives to make the sector more business-focused and ready to take advantage of the opportunities for growth.

“The JBDC will continue to provide MSMEs with the necessary information, services, training and business development support that will enable them to…improve standards…and become greater players in the global value chain,” Samuda said.

For her part, JBDC Chief Executive Officer Valerie Veira said the expo focused primarily on improving access to financing for MSMEs.

The one-day expo attracted 28 exhibitors representing Government agencies, financial institutions and marketing support companies, and featured presentations delivered by speakers at several workshops and seminars.