Minister of state in the Ministry of Industry, Investment, and Commerce Delano Seiveright is urging Jamaican entrepreneurs to think beyond traditional investments in houses and apartments and develop “more innovative businesses capable of tapping into the country’s significant economic potential” .

Seiveright made the call following a courtesy meeting with Jamaican-born American music executive, entrepreneur, and philanthropist Cleopatra Bernard at his ministry last Friday.

Bernard, mother of the late internationally acclaimed American artiste Jahseh “XXXTentacion” Onfroy is exploring a potentially significant investment in Jamaica.

“We are seeing tremendous investment in housing and apartments, which is positive, but we have to think much wider. Jamaica needs more fresh, creative and innovative business ideas. People are increasingly looking for unique experiences, products, and services, and Jamaica has a lot more that we can monetise,” Seiveright said.

He argued that Jamaica’s proximity to the massive North American market plus its globally recognised cultural brand, improving infrastructure, stable political system, and increasingly resilient economy provide a strong platform for a new generation of investors.

“We have the location, talent, culture and global reach. The opportunity now is to connect those advantages with capital and innovative thinking,” added Seiveright.

He said his ministry and JAMPRO remain focused on facilitating investment across emerging and traditional sectors and encouraging greater participation by Jamaicans at home and across the diaspora.

XXXTentacion was fatally shot during an armed robbery on June 18, 2018, outside a motorcycle dealership in Deerfield Beach, Florida.