KINGSTON, Jamaica — Stewart’s Automotive Group has opened a new US$7-million showroom for Chinese vehicle brand Great Wall Motor (GWM) on South Camp Road, betting on continued growth in Jamaica’s automotive market despite recent economic disruptions caused by Hurricane Melissa.

The 9,000-square-foot facility, formally named the Diana Stewart Building, was officially opened on June 3 and will serve as GWM’s flagship showroom in Jamaica, with space to display up to eight vehicles, including the recently introduced Tank 400 and Tank 700 sport utility vehicles.

Jacqueline Stewart-Lechler, managing director of Stewart’s Automotive Group, said the investment reflected the company’s confidence in the Jamaican economy and the future of the automotive sector.

“Tonight marks far more than the opening of a new space, it represents confidence in our market, belief in our people, and a clear vision of the road ahead of Jamaica’s automotive industry,” Stewart-Lechler said.

The GWM Tank 700 is unveiled during the official opening of Stewart’s Automotive Group’s new GWM showroom on South Camp Road in Kingston. The premium off-road SUV was among the flagship models showcased as the Chinese automaker expanded its presence in Jamaica.

The facility will employ about 40 people, with capacity for further expansion as the business grows, according to the company. Stewart-Lechler said the operation is expected to generate at least $400 million in tax and General Consumption Tax revenues in 2027.

Industry, Investment and Commerce Minister Aubyn Hill said the investment represented a vote of confidence in Jamaica’s economy and its ability to attract international brands.

“When a global brand like Great Wall Motor, one of China’s leading privately owned automotive manufacturers operating in more than 170 countries and regions, chooses to establish a permanent purpose-built presence in Jamaica, it is a clear vote of confidence in Jamaica’s economy,” Hill said.

The launch comes as GWM continues to expand its presence in the Caribbean. Hankin Zhao, general manager of GWM International, said the company has sold more than 1,500 vehicles in Jamaica since entering the market in 2021.

Zhao said the Jamaican operation has helped support the company’s expansion into 13 Caribbean markets, including Barbados and the Cayman Islands.

“At GWM, quality is our first thing. We are providing a reliable and safe product rather than a faster sale,” he said.

More than 500 guests attended the opening ceremony, which also featured the unveiling of the Tank 400 and Tank 700 models as GWM seeks to increase its share of Jamaica’s growing market for premium sport utility vehicles.

The showroom also includes a permanent art installation created by students of Genesis Academy and inspired by the Tank vehicle line.

—     Dashawn Hendricks