INTERNATIONAL manufacturer LANCO is advancing plans to build a new manufacturing facility in St Catherine — a development expected to create well-paying jobs, increase local production, and further strengthen Jamaica’s manufacturing base.

Minister of state in the Ministry of Industry, Investment and Commerce Delano Seiveright met with senior LANCO executives at the AC Hotel by Marriott Kingston on Wednesday to discuss the investment and steps towards implementation.

The proposed facility will focus on the manufacture of paints and adhesives, significantly deepening LANCO’s existing presence in Jamaica.

“This is the kind of investment we want to see — companies putting down deeper roots in Jamaica, building factories, creating well-paying jobs and expanding productive capacity,” Seiveright said.

He noted that the investment is consistent with the economic agenda being pursued by the Administration of Prime Minister Dr Andrew Holness, particularly its focus on attracting productive investment, strengthening manufacturing and creating higher-quality employment.

Seiveright also pointed to the work being led by Industry, Investment and Commerce Minister Aubyn Hill to expand Jamaica’s manufacturing sector and improve the country’s competitiveness as an investment destination.

The state minister said the Government will work closely with LANCO as the project progresses, including assisting the company in navigating the relevant regulatory and facilitation processes.

He highlighted the Productive Inputs Relief (PIR) regime as an important mechanism available to qualifying manufacturers.

PIR provides relief on approved productive inputs, including raw materials, machinery and equipment, helping to reduce production costs and support increased manufacturing activity.

“We are competing with countries across the region and globally for capital and jobs. When serious investors are prepared to build factories and employ Jamaicans, we have to be responsive and work to move those investments from discussion to implementation,” Seiveright said.

LANCO manufactures paints, architectural and industrial coatings, adhesives, sealants and related products, and has a presence across several markets in the Caribbean and the Americas.