KINGSTON, Jamaica — State Minister in the Ministry of Industry, Investment and Commerce, Delano Seiveright, has hailed the launch of Rich Rum, the new premium spirits brand founded by cricket icon Chris Gayle, as a significant boost for brand Jamaica and a powerful example of the kind of bold entrepreneurship capable of creating globally recognised Jamaican businesses.

Speaking at the official launch held at the AC Hotel Kingston on Wednesday evening, Seiveright said Gayle’s transition from global sporting superstar to entrepreneur sends an important signal that more Jamaicans should look beyond traditional businesses and pursue innovative, value-added niche products capable of competing internationally.

Minister of Culture, Gender, Entertainment and Sport Olivia “Babsy” Grange, also addressed the function, joining in recognising Gayle’s contribution to Jamaica and the significance of the new venture.

“Chris Gayle has represented Jamaica with distinction on some of the biggest sporting stages in the world. Tonight, he is representing Jamaica in another equally important way—by investing in a Jamaican-owned business with international ambition,” Seiveright said.

“He could easily have attached his name to someone else’s product. Instead, he has chosen to build a Jamaican brand. That matters. Every successful Jamaican brand strengthens Brand Jamaica, creates jobs, earns foreign exchange and inspires the next generation of entrepreneurs.”

Seiveright noted that Rich Rum enters the market with three premium expressions—Overproof, Premium and Dark—built around authentic Jamaican ingredients, copper pot distillation and a strong focus on quality and export potential.

The minister said Jamaica is well-positioned to produce more globally competitive niche products, pointing to the country’s internationally respected reputation in premium rum, Blue Mountain Coffee, music, sports, food products and manufacturing.

“We cannot simply export talent. We must export more Jamaican brands, more Jamaican products and more Jamaican intellectual property. We already have outstanding examples in companies like GraceKennedy, Seprod and Sandals. Rich Rum now joins that growing story of Jamaican excellence with global ambition,” he added.

Seiveright also highlighted Jamaica’s improving macroeconomic environment, noting that the country’s low unemployment, strong foreign reserves, declining public debt and stable inflation continue to provide a solid platform for business expansion and investment.

“Even as we continue rebuilding following Hurricane Melissa, Jamaica remains filled with opportunity. Major investments in manufacturing, hospitality, logistics and commercial development continue across the island. Our economy remains on a strong footing and confidence in Jamaica continues to grow,” he said.

He encouraged aspiring entrepreneurs to think beyond the local market and develop products capable of reaching international consumers.

“The global market is increasingly rewarding authenticity, quality and strong storytelling. Jamaica already has one of the strongest country brands in the world. The challenge now is for more Jamaicans to create premium products that carry our story onto supermarket shelves, hotel bars and retail outlets across the globe,” Seiveright said.

Seiveright congratulated Gayle and the entire Triple Gold Rums Limited team, expressing confidence that Rich Rum has the potential to become another successful Jamaican brand with regional and international reach.

“Chris Gayle has built a global personal brand over many years. The fact that he is now leveraging that influence to build a Jamaican-owned enterprise is good for business, good for manufacturing and good for Jamaica. I hope it inspires many more Jamaicans to step forward with bold ideas and the confidence to build world-class businesses right here at home,” he said.