GOVERNMENT’S promotion arm, JAMPRO, is holding meetings to bring local producers and farmers together with buyers from the hotel sector.

The agency will hold two ‘business linkages’ sessions, the first of which is in Negril on Tuesday at the Negril Escape Hotel and the other at the Sunset Beach Resort in Montego Bay on Wednesday, December 1.

“We are seeking to facilitate domestic investments and business linkages through our various matchmaking initiatives, which when converted will ultimately contribute to job creation, increased exports and import substitution and deepen the absorptive capacity of the local economy,” said president of JAMPRO, Sancia Bennett Templer.

Products ranging from fresh food and vegetables, meats, sausages, sauces, spa and body care to bedding will be on display.

Buyers will participate in specially designed business match-making sessions for product discussions with a view to securing contracts. Among the buyers are major north coast hotels, including the Ritz Carlton, Sandals, Breezes and newer properties such as Secrets and Palmyra.

Among the other entities that will be working with JAMPRO at the event are the Jamaica Hotel and Tourist Association, the Jamaica Chamber of Commerce, and the Ministry of Agriculture and Fisheries.

Assistance will be provided both to identify the specific needs of each hotel and to assess the capability of each supplier in meeting their demands.

The EXIM Bank is a sponsor, and will be on hand to share on financial options for small and medium sized producers.

Suppliers and buyers who want to participate must first register with JAMPRO’s Trade and Business Development Division, 18 Trafalgar Road in Kingston or the regional office in Montego Bay on Market Street.