KINGSTON, Jamaica — Opposition Spokesman on Trade, Industry, Investment & Global Logistics, Anthony Hylton, has outlined what he describes as his portfolio strategy for economic transformation underpinned by four pillars, should the People’s National Party (PNP) return to office after the general election.

The strategy covers the areas of trade, industry, investment and logistics while integrating science, technology and innovation.

“Together, they form the architecture of what we call Jamaica 4.0— a future-ready economy that prioritises sustainability, innovation and inclusivity,” Hylton said.

He was speaking on Tuesday during his contribution to the Sectoral Debate in the House of Representatives.

As it relates to trade, Hylton said the PNP will implement a comprehensive, modern trade policy that reflects Jamaica’s potential, while securing its place in the global economy.

“A PNP-led administration will restore and deepen engagement with Caricom (Caribbean Community), rekindle south-south cooperation, and forge new partnerships in Africa, Mexico, Asia, and Latin America, while seeking to improve our trade agreement with the EU (European Union), Canada and the US (United States). Our vision is to transform Jamaica into the region’s global supply and value chain powerhouse, that it is destined to become. We will revitalise legacy industries and foster new sectors—digital services, creative industries, clean manufacturing, and renewable energy,” Hylton outlined.

He added that, “Industrialisation engenders scale, productivity, and above all, jobs. Jobs for our youth, jobs for our women, jobs that pay well and are career-oriented. We will embrace an industrial policy and strategy.”

Hylton told the House that a future PNP administration is committed to repositioning the country’s promotions agency (JAMPRO) to focus on its core function, to include spearheading a global investment campaign.

“This initiative aims to rebrand Jamaica not only as a premier tourist destination but also as a hub for innovation, entrepreneurship, driving local and multinational business prosperity. The campaign will focus on launching a new country-of-origin brand that underscores Jamaica’s quality and preference, expanding mutual recognition agreements, streamlining bureaucratic processes, and building a reputation for innovation, productivity, creativity, and reliability,” he said.

“By leveraging these strategies, the PNP seeks to attract sustainable investments, stimulate job creation, and drive inclusive economic growth that benefits all Jamaicans; not just a few.”

Noting the architect of the logistics hub initiative in the last PNP administration of Portia Simpson Miller, which he lamented has floundered under the present government, Hylton said he sees logistics as the engine of growth for the Jamaican economy.

He said the Global Logistics Hub Initiative “will be fully realised under our stewardship”.

“We will modernise logistics infrastructure such as ports and airports, establish special economic zones, and create an integrated air and sea transport network that enhances connectivity across the Caribbean, the Americas and beyond to Asia and Africa. As logistics has emerged the frontier of industry 4.0. technologies, we will leverage AI (artificial intelligence) technology to reshape industries, including in the logistics and supply chain industry where AI is optimising workflows, increasing productivity, cutting costs and building agility and resilience,” he said.

According to Hylton, “these are not mere aspirations; these are imperatives”.

“Our people are our most valuable resource, and under a future PNP administration, we will invest and equip them to become better prepared to compete globally. This is why we will implement a game-changing workforce capacity development programme to equip Jamaicans with the skills required to thrive in high-value industries such as logistics, advanced manufacturing, digital trade, and the green economy. We will also modernise access to post-secondary education, diversify the curriculums to reflect emerging sectors, and ensure that no child is left behind. This is about more than jobs— it is about building a globally competitive workforce, empowering communities and securing higher-paying opportunities right here at home. That is how we pivot the country. That is how we deliver real, people-centred growth.”

Hylton said the PNP will also prioritise infrastructure, both physical and digital, as the success of the logistics hub depends not only on cranes and cargo but also on codes and connectivity.

To this end, he said, “We will expand broadband internet access, data protection, data analysis, promote smart infrastructure, and ensure that no community is left behind in the digital age.”