The local agro-industrial sector is set to receive a significant boost following a deepening of bilateral relations with Japan, aimed at improving productivity, resilience and export readiness among small enterprises.

Under a Japan-funded project being implemented by the United Nations Industrial Development Organization (UNIDO), approximately US$200,000 will be injected into the country’s agro-processing industry.

The initiative forms part of the wider ‘Industrial Development and Technology Transfer among the members states of the Caribbean Community’ programme, under which Jamaica has been selected as the demonstration country for agro-industrial technology transfer.

Minister of Industry, Investment and Commerce Senator Aubyn Hill underscoring the strategic importance of the initiative, described it as a direct investment in Jamaica’s export future.

“Our agro-industrial sector still faces key constraints — low productivity, outdated technologies, limited value addition, climate vulnerabilities, and gaps in access to modern equipment and expertise. And of course, we need capital. This initiative addresses these shortcomings,” he said during the official launch of the “Call for Applications’ event held recently.

The programme reflecting Japan’s growing role as a key development partner for Jamaica, particularly in advancing industrial growth and economic resilience, will through UNIDO’s intervention provide direct support to micro, small and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs) while also strengthening the capacity of the Jamaica Business Development Corporation (JBDC) to deliver advanced, technology-driven services.

Utilising a structured, three-pronged approach with a strong focus on incubation support, the initiative will give participating enterprises access to equipment such as steam-jacketed kettles, hammer mills, dehydrators, freeze dryers, density meters, and screw presses — enabling them to scale operations and improve efficiency.

Acting CEO of the JBDC Harold Davis said the initiative — designed to support MSMEs through technology transfer, capacity building, and improved market access — will help businesses compete more effectively.

“This call for applications is an opportunity for MSMEs to restore operations, improve efficiency, enhance product quality, and strengthen their ability to withstand future shocks,” he noted.

Through the application process, being implemented in collaboration with the JBDC, selected enterprises will receive integrated support packages combining access to appropriate equipment and technical advisory services. Special emphasis will be placed on businesses affected by Hurricane Melissa.

Japan’s Ambassador to Jamaica Kohei Maruyama, describing the initiative as a milestone in the long-standing relationship between the two countries, said the mission advances a shared agenda toward sustainable economic growth.

Highlighting the critical role of MSMEs in Jamaica’s economy, he said the programme is designed to strengthen their capacity not only to withstand shocks but also to drive inclusive growth.

“By strengthening these enterprises, we aim to improve productivity, enhance resilience, and promote inclusive growth — particularly in the context of recent climate-related shocks, including Hurricane Melissa,” Maruyama said.

The application period, expected to close on May 15, 2026, seeks to welcome eligible applicants that are legally registered manufacturing enterprises operating in Jamaica, particularly within the agro-processing, furniture and wood products as well as the wellness and cosmeceutical sectors. Women-led and youth-led enterprises are strongly encouraged to apply.

DAVIS…this call for applications is an opportunity for MSMEs to restore operations, improve efficiency, enhance product quality, and strengthen their ability to withstand future shocks

Members of the JBDC and UNIDO teams share in a photo following a tour of JBDC’s incubator facility in Kingston.