MONTEGO BAY, St James — Transport Minister Daryl Vaz has welcomed the decision by Magna Motors dealership — Hyundai Jamaica — to set up a modern showroom and service centre in Montego Bay, St James.

This a the first step by the Dominican Republic-headquartered company to spread its wings across the island.

Speaking during a soft launch of the Montego Bay location last Thursday night, Vaz noted that the event marked the start of Magna Motors’ nationwide expansion thrust.

“The expansion strengthens Jamaica’s automotive landscape, offering consumers more choices, better service, and increased economic opportunities,” Vaz said.

He noted that the expansion by Magna Motors aligns with the Government’s broader strategy to modernise and strengthen the nation’s transportation infrastructure.

According to Vaz, Hyundai Jamaica is a valued partner in the Government’s efforts to remain at the forefront of technological advancements in mobility and energy efficiency.

“As we work towards improving our roadways, traffic management systems, and sustainable transportation options, we welcome private sector investments that support this vision,” said Vaz.

“With global trends shifting towards more fuel-efficient, hybrid, and electric vehicles, the Government’s proactive approach in establishing an electric vehicle policy framework is paving the way for both the integration of electric vehicles and the expansion of charging infrastructure throughout the island,” Vaz added.

In the meantime, Magna Motors Dealership Managing Director Luz Tejada disclosed that the establishment in Montego Bay is a pivotal move in Hyundai Jamaica’s commitment to continue growth and expansion in the Caribbean country.

Magna Motors, which is celebrating 50 years of existence, entered Jamaica a decade ago with its first shop in the Corporate Area.

“We want to be across the entire Jamaica, ensuring that more Jamaicans, no matter where they are, have access to the same world-class service and product,” said Tejada.

Endorsing the company’s expansion plan, Dominican Republic Ambassador to Jamaica Angie Martinez said she was impressed with Hyundai’s phenomenal growth in the local automotive market over the last 10 years.

“The story of Hyundai in Jamaica is truly remarkable. When the Lama family, one of the most distinguished business families in the Dominican Republic, entered the Jamaican market in 2015, Hyundai was almost non-existent on Jamaican roads. However, through their vision, commitment and unwavering belief in the Jamaican people, they have transformed Hyundai into one of the most recognised brands in the country,” said Martinez.

In his address at the soft launch, Private Sector Organisation of Jamaica (PSOJ) President Metry Seaga said the opening of the Hyundai showroom was a symbol of the deepening commercial ties between Jamaica and the Dominican Republic.

“Magna’s continued investment in Jamaica is a strong vote of confidence on our economy, our people, and our future. The private sector thrives on partnerships like these, where cross-border collaboration fosters innovation, job creation, and economic growth,” Seaga said.

Meanwhile, branch manager of Montego Bay Magna Motors dealership, Edward Perez Rayas, expressed the company’s commitment to support the city’s development while “being a trusted partner in this community, through our services corporate partnerships, and local initiatives.

“It is about our deep commitment to this community, to our customers, and to the future of Hyundai in western Jamaica. Montego Bay is a city of growth opportunity in this island and we are proud to officially become part of it,” said Perez Rayas.