KINGSTON, Jamaica — State Minister in the Ministry of Industry, Investment and Commerce (MIIC), Delano Seiveright, has welcomed strides made in public education, industry training and enhanced support for local businesses by the Anti-Dumping and Subsidies Commission (ADSC).

Following a high-level meeting with the commission on January 8, State Minister Seiveright underscored the growing importance of trade remedies in protecting local producers from unfairly priced imports and sudden import surges, while maintaining Jamaica’s compliance with international trade obligations.

Describing the entity as a “critical safeguard” for Jamaican enterprises operating in the domestic market, he said, “The Anti-Dumping and Subsidies Commission plays a vital role in safeguarding Jamaica’s productive base and ensuring a level playing field for businesses operating here.”

“I am particularly encouraged by the commission’s expanded focus on training, public education and a more practical, hands-on approach to supporting industry through what can often be a complex process,” he added.

As an agency of the MIIC, the ADSC has intensified pre-filing consultations, industry-focused training sessions and direct engagement with business associations, allowing companies to better understand the application process and prepare complaints effectively.

A key initiative highlighted during the meeting was the agency’s Industry Help Desk pilot project, designed to assist producers, especially micro, small and medium-sized enterprises, in preparing applications for trade remedies support through a structured, cost-sharing arrangement.

Seiveright explained that this approach lowers barriers, reduces reliance on costly external consultants, builds in-house capacity within industries, and reflects a modern, solutions-oriented mindset.

The state minister acknowledged challenges faced by the commission, including difficulties in accessing timely industry and import data, and hesitancy among some firms to share sensitive financial information required for assessing market impact.

He committed to working closely with the ADSC team and its stakeholders to help move this initiative beyond the pilot stage.

“These challenges are real, but they are not insurmountable. We have agreed on clear next steps, including closer coordination with Jamaica Customs and the Statistical Institute of Jamaica, strengthening institutional capacity and continuing engagement with industry stakeholders to build trust and understanding,” he shared.

Seiveright also welcomed ongoing organisational strengthening of the commission, including staffing improvements and administrative upgrades, noting that a strong, credible and well-resourced trade remedies authority is essential as Jamaica deepens its integration into global supply chains.

“At a time when Jamaica is focused on recovery, growth and resilience, protecting fair competition is not optional, it is essential,” he said, adding that “the Anti-Dumping and Subsidies Commission is a key part of our trade infrastructure, and I look forward to our continued close collaboration as we strengthen Jamaica’s business environment”.

— JIS