WT/TPR/M/359  
31 October  2017 
(17-5900) Page: 1/49 
Trade Policy Review Body  
13 and 15 September 2017   
 
  TRADE POLICY REVIEW  
JAMAICA  
MINUTES OF THE MEETING  
Chairperson: H.E. Mr Juan Carlos G onzalez (Colombia)  
CONTENTS  
 
1  INTRODUCTORY REMARKS  BY THE CHAIRPERSON  ................................ .......................  2 
2  OPENING STATEMENT BY  THE REPRESENTATIVE O F JAMAICA  ................................ ..... 4 
3  STATEMENT BY THE DIS CUSSANT  ................................ ................................ ................  9 
4  STATEMENTS BY MEMBERS  ................................ ................................ ........................  13 
5  REPLIES BY THE REPRE SENTATIVE OF JAMAICA  AND ADDITIONAL COMME NTS ........  39 
6  CONCLUDING REMARKS B Y THE CHAIRPERSON  ................................ .........................  48 
 
 
Note: Advance written questions and additional questions by WTO Members, and the replies 
provided by Jamaica  are reproduced in document WT/TPR/M/ 359/Add.1  and will be available 
online at http://www.wto .org/english/tratop_e/tpr_e/tp_rep_e.htm.  WT/TPR/M/359  • Jamaica  
 
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  1  INTRODUCTORY REMARKS  BY THE CHAIRPERSON  
1.1.  The fourth Trade Policy Review of Jamaica was held on 13 and 15 September 2017. The 
Chairperson, H.E. Mr. Juan Carlos Gonzalez (Colombia) welcomed the delegation of Jamaica 
headed by Her Excellency Mrs. Kamina Johnson Smith, Minister of Foreign Affairs and Foreign 
Trade; the rest of the delegation; and the discussant, Ambassador Högni S. Kristjánsson (Iceland ). 
1.2.  The Chairperson expressed to the Minister and to the countries of  the Caribbean his 
sympathies and solidarity because of the hurricane damage that had been done. He understood 
that Jamaica was not hit directly but he knew it was a big problem in the region so he thanked the 
delegation of Jamaica for being there despite the situation. Members were honoured to have the 
Minister present at the meeting.  
1.3.  The Chairperson recalled the purpose of the Trade Policy Reviews and the main elements of 
the procedures for the meeting. The report by Jamaica  was co ntained in document WT/T PR/G/359  
and that of the  WTO Secretariat in WT/TPR/S/359 . 
1.4.  Questions by the following delegations had been submitted in writing before the deadline: 
Australia; Mexico; Colombia; Canada;  Republic of  Korea; Singapore; Costa Rica; United States; 
Brazil; Europe an Union; and Dominican Republic. The following delegations submitted written 
questions after the deadline: Chile; Japan; China; Trinidad and Tobago; and Indonesia . 
1.5.  During the previous TPR meeting in 2011, Members  had praised Jamaica for having continued 
reforming its economy despite experiencing a series of external shocks and a large public debt.  It 
had also been noted that the country had not witnessed major improvements in its economic 
performance, including its exports. Jamaica had been  encouraged to c ontinue its efforts to lower 
trade costs, expand its limited export base, improve infrastructure and energy supply as well as to 
enhance the competitiveness of its goods and services trade.  
1.6.  Coming up to the current  review period, trade and trade -related re form ini tiatives had  been 
undertaken in several areas, such as the simplification of the tax system; broadening the tax base; 
and implementing an electronic platform for the payment of taxes. Jamaica had also issued or 
amended a large amount of legislation  since 2011, including the Insolvency Act, the Fiscal 
Incentives Act, the Special Economic Zones (SEZ) Act, the Public Procurement Act, the Bank 
Services Act, and the Electricity Act, among others. As indicated by the advanced written 
questions, Members were looking forward to learn more about Jamaica 's reform agenda in these 
areas.  
1.7.  With regards to Jamaica' s participation in the multilateral trading system, Members also 
recalled  that, at the time of the previous review, they had commended Jamaica 's active 
participation in the WTO, including in the Doha Development Agenda, and its initiatives to advance 
special and differential treatment for develop ing countries. Jamaica continued  to be an active 
participant in the multilateral trading system. Notably, it  had ratified the Fifth Protocol to the GATS 
in 2012 and the Trade Facilitation Agreement in January 2016. Jamaica was also a proponent of 
the Work Programmes on Small Economies, supporting the view that the need s and priorities of 
such economies had to  be add ressed fully and in all areas of the WTO.  
1.8.  With regard to trade policy, while at the time of the previous review Members had highlighted 
the overall openness of the Jamaican economy, some concerns had been  raised about the costs of 
tariffs and various other  duties and charges, and whether excessive import taxation could be 
constraining Jamaica 's competitiveness. Members had also expressed concerns about the use of 
non-tariff charges such as customs fees and additional stamp duties on certain agricultural 
products. Also, Members had encouraged Jamaica to eliminate its remaining export subsidies by 
2015 in line with WTO requirements. On this latter matter, Jamaica 's 2014 Omnibus Incentives 
Legislation had repealed the four incentive schemes that had been  notified to the WTO as 
containing export subsidies.  
1.9.  Other issues of interest to Members at the time of the previous review in 2011 included the 
following: modernization of customs procedures, challenges in meeting international quality 
standards, divestment of s tate-owned enterprises, SPS requirements for imports of certain 
agricultural products, and IPR legislation and enforcement, in particular in the area of patents.  WT/TPR/M/359  • Jamaica  
 
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  1.10.   The Chairperson drew Members ' attention to some issues of interest to them derived from 
the ad vance written questions submitted for this TPR. These include d, among others, the 
following: the new Customs Act that was to be adopted to facilitate trade; the increase in 
Jamaica 's simple average applied MFN tariff from 9.4% in 2010 to 10.4% in 2017 main ly due to 
increases on some items of CARICOM 's CET; MFN applied rates exceeding their bound levels for 
some 32 tariff lines; the new Foreign Trade Policy and the road map and project plan being 
developed by the Trade Facilitation Task Force; steps to deepe n the CARICOM single market; plans 
to remove additional stamp duties and to streamline import procedures; preparation of the 
implementing regulations for the Public Procurement Act; IPR protection and amendments to the 
Copyright Act; plans to lower tariff protection on agricultural products; plans to end the monopoly 
in the electricity sector; and attempts to remove barriers to trade in services.  
1.11.   This meeting would  be a good opportunity for Members to discuss in greater detail issues of 
interest to them and  of systemic importance to t he multilateral trading system.  The Chairperson 
looked  forward to a fruitful exchange.  
1.12.   Before he opened  up the floor for discussion, the Chairperson referred to two requests 
received for the TPR of the West African Economic and Monetary Union (WAEMU) scheduled for 25 
and 27 October 2017. He indicate d that the Commission of WAEMU had  requested observer status 
for the TPR of WAEMU Members (Benin, Burkina Faso, Côte d 'Ivoire, Guinea -Bissau, Mali, Niger, 
Senegal and T ogo). Indeed, th e Commission had  helped in the preparation of the Review of its 
member States and was, according to the WAEMU Treaty, in charge of the formulation of the 
common trade policy of its members, including the negotiation of their bilateral trade agreements. 
Therefore, in the absence of objection, the Chairperson suggested Members accept this request.  
1.13.   He also inform ed Members that UNIDO had  requested ad hoc observer status for the TPR of 
WAEMU Members. As it had been  the case for a number of previous TPRs, the C hairperson also 
suggest ed that Members agree to this request.  WT/TPR/M/359  • Jamaica  
 
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  2  OPENING STATEMENT BY  THE REPRESENTATIVE O F JAMAICA ( H.E. MRS. KAMINA 
JOHNSON SMITH)  
Introduction  
2.1.  Mr. Chairman, my delegation and I are pleased  to be here with you and other M embers of the 
WTO f or this the 4th Trade Policy Review of Jamaica. Our participation this morning is particularly 
noteworthy, as recent natural disasters in our hemisphere, presented significant challenges for 
travel to Geneva by several members of the delegation. Indeed, th e nexus between trade and 
climate change is increasingly b ecoming a part of our reality.  
2.2.  Our thoughts and prayers go out to the victims of recent natural disasters, which have 
affected countries of  several regions of the world , including ours .  
2.3.  Mr. Chairm an, I would like at the outset to thank H.E. Hogni S. Kristjansson, Permanent 
Representative of Iceland for assuming the role of Discussant. We look forward to his stimulating 
engagement over the next two days. I also thank those WTO Members/delegations th at have 
taken the time to be here with us today and for submitting questions as a further demonstration of 
their commitment to the process. Let me also extend deep appreciation to the staff of the WTO for 
their hard work in the compilation of the Secretari at report and their contribution to the wide r 
arrangements for this Review.  
2.4.  Jamaica 's longstanding commitment to an inclusive, transparent and rules -based multilateral 
trading system is beyond question. We joined the GATT in 1963, only one year after our 
independence in 1962, and were a found ing M ember of the WTO in 1995.  
Economic environment  
2.5.  Mr. Chairman, since our last review, the primary focus of the Government of Jamaica has 
been on  sustainable  economic growth, inclusive job creation and maintaining fi scal prudence. In 
May 2013, the Government signed a US$932 million four -year Extended Fund Facility  (EFF) 
agreement with the IMF, with a view to achieving fiscal and debt sustainability, improve external 
competitiveness and lay the foundation for improving  economic growth and employment.   
2.6.  In an unprecedented demonstration of goodwill and mutual trust, the Government of Jamaica 
negotiated a three year provisional Stand By Agreement (SBA) with the IMF, six months prio r to 
the expiration of the Extend Fund Fa cility.  The US$1.64 billion provisional SBA with the IMF is a 
precautionary measure, to hedge against unforeseen external economic shocks and to provide the 
necessary policy spa ce within which to achieve the G overnment 's overall economic reform 
programme, including tax policy reform and the trade and busine ss facilitation reform agenda. The 
SBA is also intended to provide further support to the Government 's economic growth and job 
creation agenda, as well as public sector transformation and  modernization. J amaica 's 
macro economic policies and strategies have also continued to operate within the framework of 
Vision 2030 Jamaica, our National Development Plan, which seeks to place the country on a path 
to attain developed country status by 2030. This plan is al igned with the Sustai nable Development 
Goals (SDGs).  
2.7.  Trade (which accounts for over 70% of GDP) and investment are acknowledged as critical 
components of the national economic growth agenda. Jamaica is leveraging the value of its global 
brand and taking ac tive steps to penetrate new markets, expand exports into existing markets, 
and to integrate further into global value chains. We are addressing supply -side constraints; 
improving  quality standards; and the application of science, technology and innovation  (STI) to 
improve productivity.  
2.8.  These efforts have been strengthened through the contributions of the Economic Growth 
Council (EGC) comprised of  members of the private sector.  The Council was established by the 
Prime Minister of Jamaica in August 2016, to a dvise the Cabinet on a set of policies and reforms 
designed to stimulate economic growth. Having submitted its recommendations, the EGCs 
mandate is now to oversee the implementation  of the national growth agenda.  It has set an 
ambitious target of achieving  5% growth per annum in GDP in the next four years - the "5-in-4" WT/TPR/M/359  • Jamaica  
 
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  plan. The EGC is an innovative model of public -private sector partner ship for national 
development.  
2.9.  Mr Chairman, when Jamaica undertook its 3rd Trade Policy Review in 2011, much attention 
was paid to the ongoing effort to recover from the global financial and econo mic crises which  
began in 2008. Global developments such as the slo w growth in international trade and  increasing 
tendencies towards protectionism in some markets together with rest rictive measures such as 
de-risking by international correspondent banks, have presented new threats to the country 's 
ability to effectively participate in the global economy. Notwithstanding these challenges, Jamaica 
has made significant strides.  
2.10.   Growth in the Jamaican economy increased to 1.5 % in 2016, following an increase of 0.8 % 
in 2015. This expansion in 2016 was largely influenced by increased consumer and investo r 
confidence and a stable macroeconomic environment.  There have been improvements in ke y 
economic indicators. Jamaica 's balance of payments recorded a fifth consecutive year of 
improvement in 2016, as well as the lowest curren t account deficit in 15 years. The current 
account balance for the 2016 calendar year improved by US$327.1 million to  record a deficit of 
US$103.0 million, relative to 2015, representing a continuation of the improvements obse rved 
over the last four years.  
2.11.   Another key economic indicator - the Net International Reserves (NIR) - also increased 
relative to 2015, to US$2.7 billion at the end of 2016. Gross reserves amounted to US$3.3 billion, 
representing 24.7 weeks of projected goods and services imports at the year -end for 2016 . The 
Jamaican economy also continued to show positive improve ments in the rate of inflation.  In 2016, 
Jamaica 's annual inflation of 1.7% was not only lower than in 2015, but was the lowest rate fo r a 
calendar year since 1964.  
2.12.   The Government is pursuing enhanced tax reform through the implementation of a simpler, 
more efficient and broader tax base, a longside an equitable tax system which will eliminate 
distortions and provide an incentive for economic growth. It is also pursuing  critical strategies such 
as pension reform, public sector transformation and modernization, the reduction of 
unemployment, a nd the implementation of Growth Inducement Strategies focused primarily on 
emerging sectors such as Special Economic Zones (SEZs), new ICT and Business Process 
Outsourcing (BPOs). Cabinet has also approved a Public -Private Partnership (PPP) Policy to guide  
the long -term relationship between Government and the private sector.  
2.13.   In 2017, the Jamaican economy is forecast to grow within the range of 1.5% to 2.5%. 
However, as events unfolding in our region demonstrate, the impact of adverse weather conditions 
exacerbated by climate change could threaten the attainment of this growth target. Indeed, the 
estimated 0.3 % increase in economic growth for the April to June quarter, the second consecutive 
period of reduced growth Jamaica has seen for 2017 is attributed to weather -related shocks which 
affected the island earlier  this year.  
2.14.   It is anticipated that for the remainder of the fiscal year, which ends on 31 March 2018, 
there will be a strengthening in the pace of growth resulting in a fiscal year outturn within the 
range of 2 to 3 %. This forecast is partly predicated on the resumption of productive activity at the 
country 's largest Alumina Plant (Alpart), which is expected to drive growth in excess of 20 % in the 
mining and quarrying i ndustry, for this fiscal year.  
Sector strategies and performance  
2.15.   Mr. Chairman, agriculture continues to play an important role in the Jamaican economy, 
contributing to gross domestic product (GDP), employment and rural development. In 2016, the 
sector accounted for 7.3 % of GDP, real valu e-added for the industry expanded by 13.5 %. The 
Government of Jamaica has put in place a wide range of complementary policies, programmes and 
strategies geared toward improving production, efficiency and competitiveness in the sector.  Some 
of the key polic ies include the establishment of Agro -Parks, which seek to integrate all aspects of 
the agricultural value chain from pre -production  to post-harvesting and marketing; implementation 
of the National Food and Nutrition Security Policy and Action Plan, a Nati onal Food safety Policy; 
and a National Youth in Agr iculture Policy. Work is also underway to streamline into single 
regulatory body, the operations of the agricultural commodity boards and the Export Division in WT/TPR/M/359  • Jamaica  
 
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  the Ministry of Industry, Commerce, Agr iculture and Fisheries (MICAF).  It is anticipated that this 
new Jamaica Agricultural Commoditi es Regulatory Authority (JACRA)  will be fully operational by 
the end of 2017.  
2.16.   Working with our development partners, specific projects have been put in place to incre ase 
our agricultural exports, including the Agricultural Competitiveness Programme,  which was 
launched in 2014. It aims to enhance competitiveness in the agricultural industry through the 
promotion of access to markets, stimulation of private sector invest ment, and strengthening 
Jamaica 's food quality and safety management systems. As part of this ACP, a GLOBAL G.A.P. 
Certification  Programme has also been developed. Certification to the GLOBAL G.A.P. standard will 
ensure that production, including in the Ag ro-parks , complies with sanitary, phyto sanitary and food 
safety requirements.  
2.17.   The manufacturing industry accounted for 8.5 % of GDP in 2016  and real value -added 
increased by 0.2 %. Policies and programmes for the industry have been implemented to enhance 
the business environment, to provide institutional support and capacity -building and to increase 
competitiveness in order to facilitate higher value added production and exports.  
2.18.   The services sector accounts for 78.8 % of GDP. The sector continues to be buoye d by the 
performance of the tourism industry. Jamaica earned a record US$2 billion during the first 
8 months of 2 017 from 2.8 million visitors. This figure represents an increase of 8.3 % in gross 
foreign exchange earnings over the US$1.83 billion earned l ast year, over the same period.  Cruise 
passenger arrivals also increased over the same period. The Government has targeted the 
development and strengthening of sustainable linkages between the tourism industry and other 
productive sectors of the economy, su ch as agriculture, manufacturing and entertainment. The 
objectives are to create employment and increase the generation and retention of  foreign 
exchange.  
2.19.   The Government of Jamaica is currently focusing on diversifying the services sector  as well , 
includi ng through the development of an International Financial Services Centre and the promotion 
of cultural and creative industries. Plans are also underway to develop medical, health and 
wellness -related tourism services.  
2.20.   Micro, small and medium -sized enterpri ses (MSMEs) are considered vital players in 
Jamaica 's economic development. Policies and programmes are focused on key areas of 
intervention including the provision of business advisory services, financing and credit, business 
development su pport and marke t intelligence. In 2016, the number of MSMEs operating in Jamaica 
was approximately 9,671 with an estimated 400,000 employees.  
Strategies to promote growth and international competitiveness  
2.21.   Jamaica is a strong parliamentary democracy with an independent ju diciar y and common 
law legal system. New legislation to modernize our Partnership laws, the Companies Act and the 
Arbitration Act, which is now based on the UNCITRAL model law, further enhance the business and 
investment environment.  
2.22.   The National Competiti veness Council (NCC) serves as the national focal point for 
competitiveness matters, and in that context, oversees improving bu siness and trade facilitation. 
Much has been achieved under its Business Env ironment Reform Agenda (BERA). Up to June 2017, 
various reforms were implemented, including the expansion of the Commercial Division in the 
Supreme Court, the establishment of the Venture Capital Programme and the i ncreased use of 
credit bureaux.  The BERA also seeks to enhance Jamaica 's performance in key in ternational 
indices, namely the Doing Busing Report, the Global Competitiveness Index and th e Logistics 
Performance Index. Jamaica achieved its highest ranking of 58 out of 189 countries in the Doing 
Business Report 2015 and also performed well in the Logi stics Performance Index with a ranki ng of 
70 out of 170 countries. By 2015, Jamaica was considered to be the most improved countries in 
the Caribbean, in terms of business climate reforms, and for 2017/2018, FDI Intelligence has 
ranked Jamaica as one of th e top 10 island economies of the future.  
2.23.   Jamaica ratified the WTO Agreement on Trade Facilitation in 2016 and has since notified its 
Category A, B and C commitments to the WTO.  A Trade Facilitation Task Force comprising WT/TPR/M/359  • Jamaica  
 
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  representatives of the public and p rivate sectors was established in 2015 to facilitate consultation 
and coordination in relation to the implementation o f trade facilitation measures. Since its 
establishment, the task Force has developed a Roadmap and Project Plan for Trade Facilitation and  
has partnered with the World Bank, the ITC and other international development partners to 
obtain tech nical assistance and training. Jamaica is currently working on a Nati onal Trade 
Information Portal. There have also been significant improvements in the modernization of 
customs procedure, including the implementation of ASYCUDA World, resulting in the introduction 
of a modern, fully integr ated Customs management system.  
2.24.   Jamaica 's National Export Strategy (NES) seeks to improve export performance by 
advanc ing the compet itiveness of firms and sectors.  It recognizes the fact that the export sector is 
crucial to the development of the Jamaican economy due to the smal l size of our domestic market. 
It has also identified five priority sectors in which Jamaica ha s a competitive advantage, and 
outlines five (5) cross -cutting areas of focus.  
2.25.   The Information Communications and Technology/Business Processing Outsourcing 
(ICT/BPO) industry is a strong performer, and a key sector  in Jamaica 's growth strategy. It should  
be noted that in 2012 there were 13,250 persons employed in the industry and the number of 
firms stood at 32.  Based on surveys conducted by the Jamaica Promotions Corporation (JAMPRO), 
employment in the industry was estimated at 25,000 employees as at Mar ch 2017, representing 
approximately 90 % increase over 20 12. It currently generates in exc ess of US$400 million 
annually.  Jamaica has maintained its 6 % share of the Carib bean and Latin American market.  The 
Government has established an ambitious target for the development of  the BPO sector  to increase 
employment in the industry by a further 100 % by 2020.  
Bilateral and Regional Trade Engagement  
2.26.   As a small, open and trade -dependent economy, Jamaica has continued to actively pursue 
bilateral and regional initi atives with a view to expanding opportunities for export divers ification 
and market expansion.  Furthermore, it is expected that the measures being taken to improve our 
productivity and competitiveness will enhance our ability to take advantage of the oppor tunities 
afforded by our longstanding access to the markets of the United States and Canada via the 
Caribbean Basin Initiative (C BI) and CARIBCAN, respectively. At the same time, we continue to 
implement commitments under the CARIFORUM -EU Economic Partners hip Agreement (EPA), in 
accordance with established timelines . 
2.27.   We have also made significant inroads in our implementation of the CARICOM Sin gle Market 
and Economy (CSME). Allied to this, we have continued to explore opportunities for enhanced 
trade within  the framework of bilateral trade agreements established between CARICOM and 
various regional partners.  
Foreign Trade Policy and Action Plan  
2.28.   Since 2011, Jamaica has been reviewing its foreign trade policy, w hich was last revised in 
2001. The new Foreign Tr ade Policy will further integrate Jamaica 's trade regimes into Vision 2030, 
our National Development Plan. The focus of the Policy will be on strengthening Jamaica 's trade 
regime to support the production of goods and services which are competitive in the global 
market, taking into account the changed realities of the production process; a constantly evolving 
multilateral trading system; and new approaches to development. The revised Foreign Trade Policy 
and the accompanying implementation Action Plan are now with Cabinet for approval.  
WTO technical assistance and capacity building  
2.29.   Mr. Chairman, Jamaica was pleased to hav e been selected as one of four M embers to 
participate in the Technical Assistance Audit co nducted in the summer of 2016. This revealed tha t 
the WTO Technical Assistance and Capacity Building (TACB) activities continue to be relevant and 
beneficial to developing country M embers. Throughout the years, the WTO TACB has helped 
Jamaica to train and improve the skills of our technical  experts and trade negotiators.  We 
encourage the WTO to expand on its suite of technical assistance programmes, making greater use 
of information technology in order to reach as  wide an audience as possible.  WT/TPR/M/359  • Jamaica  
 
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  Engagement in the WTO work programme  
2.30.   As Member countries will  be aware, Jamaica has remained actively engaged in the regular 
work programme of the WTO, as well as the negotiations towards advancing the Doha 
Development Agenda.  
2.31.   Since our last Trade Policy Review in 2011, Jamaica has played its part in the negotiatio n 
and conclusion of the MC9 Bali Package, which included the Agreement on Trade Facilitation. Now 
that we are approaching MC11, Jamaica is once again focused on working with our partners 
towards meanin gful outcomes in Buenos Aries. It is for these reasons that Jamaica continues to 
support the proposals of the ACP Group, the G90, the SVEs and the G33.  
2.32.   It is well established that trade is an essen tial driver of development.  Jamaica, therefore, 
attaches great importance to the adoption of development -centred a pproaches when seeking to 
augment th e rules of international trade.  It is significant to note that since Jamaica 's third review 
in January 2011, ten countries have acceded to membership of the WTO and nine of the ten are 
developing countries desirous of gr owing their econ omies through increased trade.  
2.33.   Finally, Mr. Chairman, Jamaica reiterates its commitment to a rules -based multilateral 
trading system. In these times of global economic challenges and uncertainties, when 
multilateralism  itself is facing unpr ecedented pressure, the WTO must assert itself and reaffirm the 
continued relevance of t he Multilateral Trading System.  For this to happen, it cannot be business 
as usual.  We must build upon our recent achievements and constructively engage to move the 
goals and objectives of this Organization forward, for the benefit of all, especially  the most 
vulnerable among us.  
2.34.   The WTO has a clear and important role to play in ensuring that n o Member State is left 
behind. I thank you.  WT/TPR/M/359  • Jamaica  
 
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  3  STATEMENT BY THE DIS CUSSANT  
3.1.  Befor e going into the substance of my statement allow me to express my deepest 
condolences to the people in the Caribbean Region that have been affected by the catastrophic 
consequences of the recent hurricane.  
3.2.  Let me begin by congratulating Jamaica on this ver y important TPR and I wish the delegation 
all the best for the review here today and Friday.  
Introduction  
3.3.  It has been very interesting for me to be part of this review over the last few weeks. One 
reason is clearly that I see similarities between Jamaica a nd my own country. I also recognize how 
those similarities can affect economic realities and even produce comparable outcomes and 
challenges. Harsh nature is one thing, another is lack of diversity, the third is the strong reliance 
on external trade and a fourth one may be the consequence of the three; fluctuating economy.  
3.4.  With all of this in mind I have been impressed by the clear vision of Jamaican authorities. 
That vision was obvious from the 2010 TPR and it is even clearer from the current one with spec ific 
reference to Vision 2030 - Jamaica National Development Plan and its coverage and broad overall 
objectives.  
3.5.  My general assessment is that the policymaking outline d in 2010 is yielding success.  
3.6.  The signs are that Jamaica is on the right track.  
3.7.  Maybe we should not be surprised. After all they are known for being among the quickest on 
the track.  
Economy  
3.8.  If we begin with the economy , we see clear improvements on almost all fronts compared to 
the previous review.  
3.9.  The economic policy is to a certain extent  framed by the current IMF Standby Arrangement, 
which is a follow -up from the IMF Extended Fund Facility entered into in 2013. For my country, we 
fully realize the importance of cooperating with the IMF under circumstances like this.  
3.10.   Both program mes seem t o have been successful as key indicators show improvements and 
the authorities seem to be meeting key objectives of the current program me. 
3.11.   According to the most recent information from the IMF , primary surplus is above 7% of GDP 
for a fourth consecutive ye ar, debt is firmly declining, inflation is modest and international 
reserves are above the program me target. If we compare these numbers to the previous review 
we realize the significant progress made.  
3.12.   The challenge is to maintain this momentum and at the same time address the remaining 
weaknesses like still high unemployment rate and weak growth.  
3.13.   Again on that front , the Jamaican Government has a clear vision and policies to build on but 
continues to be dependent on external factors like unpredictable natu re and strong and open 
international markets. Drought conditions are having an adverse impact on agriculture and recent 
flooding may have a negative impact on  growth this year and the next. In addition to this, there is 
also the recent national disaster re lated to the Hurricane as claimed by the Minister.  
3.14.   However , I note the upbeat estimates by the Government regarding growth figures this year 
and the next which reflects significant improvements in number of areas.   
3.15.   But structural challenges are there to be  dealt with in order to progress further, like taking 
measures to increase efficiency, improve public financial management, and address infrastructure WT/TPR/M/359  • Jamaica  
 
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  bottlenecks in key areas like energy and transport. Further efforts should also be made to diversify 
the economy in order to create further pillars for the economy to build on.  
3.16.   The Government has taken and is taking policy decisions in order to address these 
challenges in particu lar through structural reforms.  
3.17.   These improvements are making Jamaica more resili ent to sustain external shocks.  
Main economic sectors  
3.18.   Main sectors of the Jamaican economy remain services, agriculture, mining and 
manufacturing industries.  
3.19.   Services accounts for over 70% of GDP and has been growing steadily over the review 
period, touri sm-related activities leading the growth. Around 67% of the workforce is employed in 
the services sector and it is contributing significantly to export and foreign currency earnings with 
considerable positive services balance.  
3.20.   Over 17% of the total workfo rce is engaged in agriculture. The sector is important export 
industry accounting for around 20% of total merchandise exports in 2016 and has been growing 
following recovering from natural catastrophes in recent years.  
3.21.   Mining, quarrying and alumina product s are dominating the merchandise export of Jamaica, 
accounting for 47% of such export in 2016. I was , of course , very happy to see my country on the 
list of major buyers of alumina products  from Jamaica . In some of these industries we still see 
direct gove rnment involvement through ownership. Government plans are to divest from these 
industries, which is a positive policy in the long term.  
Trade  
3.22.   When it comes to trade , Jamaica is an example of a country where economic prosperity 
depends very much on interna tional trade. And actually , here we have yet another examp le of the 
very fact that small S tates are those that rely most on open and transparent international trade.  
3.23.   At the same time , the challenge of the Jamaican authorities is to seek ways to diversify t he 
export base as merchandise export is , to a large extent , composed of chemicals and mineral 
products, accounting for more than 60%.  
3.24.   As already mentioned , services are one of the most important parts of the economy of 
Jamaica and are consequently more and  more an important source of export and foreign currency 
earnings.  
3.25.   As indicated , main objective of the economic policy of Jamaica is a considerable and 
sustainable growth, the Growth Agenda Policy. Number of issues need to fall into place for the 
support of that objective.  
3.26.   One is clearly in the area of external trade and , on that front there are issues to be tackled, 
even issues that were raised in the last review.  
3.27.   To begin with , it is welcomed that the Government is focused on trade facilitation as one 
pillar of the growth agenda reflected in the establishment of Trade Facilitation Task Force and the 
subsequent policy making. In that context , it is, of course , very welcomed that the WTO Trade 
Facilitation Agreement has been ratified by Jamaica.  
3.28.   It is also important to look closely into concerns related to issues like customs procedures. 
There , we see improvements through for example changes in risk assessment, which means that 
clearance of cargo is quicker than before. At the same time , Jamaica would benefi t from further 
improvements as its performance regarding import time and cost is still lacking behind neighbo urs. 
In the long term , more automaticity like electronic customs clearances could facilitate further 
progress. Another issue highlighted in the las t report and is repeated again now is the valuation WT/TPR/M/359  • Jamaica  
 
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  problem or , in other words , under -invoicing on basis of which the Government might be losing 
important revenues.   
3.29.   Another challenging area is tariffs. There , the first important challenge is the fact tha t tariffs 
or customs duties are both the main trade policy tool of the Government and the largest source of 
revenues. That means that any liberalization can become complicated. Some improvements are 
recognized over the report period. The IMF has recognized  that system for waivers for duties and 
taxes are now more transparent and rule -based.  
3.30.   However the picture is still complicated and even with some steps backwards from the 
previous review. Fewer tariff lines are duty free compared to the last review and , in addition , 
considerable number of lines record duties beyond bindings that is of concern for members.  
3.31.   The system of stamp duty is also of concern and then on top of that additional stamp duty 
mainly on agricultural products. These duties are on top of a ny tariffs. It could be in the benefit of 
cross border trade to take a broad look at this system with the objective of streamlining it.  
Reforms - Since last TPR  
3.32.   Previous review was marked by economic difficulties, very much crisis dominated. At the 
same ti me, Jamaican Government had begun to take initiatives to address the challenges both 
immediate actions and with more longer term policy making like Vision 2030, which remain s at the 
heart of current policy making and policy actions.  
3.33.   In the current review , it is clear that reforms undertaken are having a positive impact and 
further improvements are to be expected with further measures being implemented in a number of 
sectors.  
3.34.   If we begin with general economic policy , the cooperation with the IMF has meant th at the 
Government is working towards very clear objectives in terms of closing the budget deficit, 
reducing debt, seek stability and stimulate job creation.  
3.35.   This includes significant improvements on tax policy like reduction of waivers. In that 
context , I have noted in questions from delegations concerns regarding complexity of the import 
duties, in particular with reference to stamp duties.  
3.36.   Inflation is historically low and the current account deficit is down to 3.2% which is 
significant improvement from the last review.  
3.37.   At the same time , a cornerstone of the policy making of the Government should continue to 
be significant strengthening of growth over a long term. Key factor there is to foster private sector 
led growth. For that purpose , measures are bei ng taken in  a number of areas. In that context , 
high crime rate continues to hamper growth potential in the private sector.  
3.38.   Furthermore, development of the Caricom Single Market could give stronger support to the 
growth agenda of the Government.  
3.39.   Further im provements are on the table in various sectors of the economy.  
3.40.   If looking at agriculture , the report of the Secretariat reveals a complex structure of 
government intervention in export and trade.  
3.41.   The reform agenda initiated by the Government has clearly t he ambition of streamlining this 
regulatory structure that should at the end of the day benefit the sector. At the same time , it 
might be worthwhile considering reviewing  the necessity of government involvement in cross 
border trade in a number of agricult ural products.  
3.42.   In mining , the Government is in the process of reducing its involvement in the sector by 
divesting some of its holdings. In addition , policymaking is underway in order to further advance 
the sector in the direction of being sustainable but a t the same time contribute further to national 
development by increased competitiveness in the global market. Key elements are increased WT/TPR/M/359  • Jamaica  
 
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  efficiency and modernized sector. In order to achieve this , it is clear that the Government will need 
to address challe nges like energy infrastructure.  
3.43.   In the manufacturing sector , challenges remain like low labo ur productivity, high cost for 
energy, transport and capital as well as burdensome administrative procedures. This is being 
addressed through policymaking based on  Vision 2030, which again serves here as an important 
tool in addressing weaknesses in the economy.  
3.44.   Finally , in the financial s ervices sector , comprehensive measures have been taken to 
strengthen the legal framework, certain requirements and surveillance m echanism. Challenges 
remain in the banking sector for example with regard to impact of the so called de -risking. 
Authorities should be applauded for their policy making in thi s area towards modernized, 
well-regulated and transparent international financial  jurisdiction. In this regard , experience of my 
own country , for example , is an example of the importance of strong legal framework, strict 
requirements and surveillance with clear requirements to be fulfilled by those running financial 
institutions.  
Final remarks  
3.45.   As repeated in my intervention the current review of the Trade Policy of Jamaica is 
conducted in a completely different environment than the previous one.  
3.46.   It is clear that the policy decisions of the Government are having positive impact and cle ar 
vision embedded in Vision 2030 towards the ultimate objective of becoming a developed country is 
on track.  
3.47.   At the same time , challenges remain and some of them, like unpredictable nature, will 
always be there as we are reminded of these days.  
3.48.   Different  indexes illustrate  that there is still some way to go but progress is being made. To 
accelerate planned reforms could facilitate increased investment and trust that should soon reflect 
in such indexes that might encourage businesses and investors to look to Jamaica.  
3.49.   But with solid foundations like strong economy, clear policy making, strong institutions and 
stability , Jamaica will become resilient enough to deal with such challenges without entering into 
crisis mode a s has often happen in the past. Thank y ou. WT/TPR/M/359  • Jamaica  
 
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  4  STATEMENTS BY MEMBER S 
AUSTRALIA  
4.1.  Allow me to start by acknowledging the strong leadership of the Jamaican WTO Ambas sador 
in Geneva, Wayne McCook.  
4.2.  Over the period of review, growth in Jamaica has been  very gradually strengthening. 
Maintaining momentum w ill be important, underpinned by ongoing and future economic reforms 
and supported by the new Foreign trade Policy.  
4.3.  Australia notes that tariffs and other duties and charges on imports remain a key trade policy 
instrument for Jamaica but, at the same time,  we also note the continued high level of tariffs on 
some agricultural products.  
4.4.  Although the level of economic engagement between Australia and Jamaica has traditionally 
been limited, we welcome our cooperation together in international fora, including th e WTO. While 
facing its own economic challenges, including a decline in manufacturing and its vulnerability to 
the negative effects of natural phenomenon, Jamaica has continued to take steps to advance 
liberalisation in the trade and services sectors.  
4.5.  We encourage Jamaica to continue to explore tourism opportunities, given the improvements 
in this sector over the past two years. We hope that such potential growth could help Jamaica to 
address the stubbornly high youth unemployment.  
4.6.  Australia acknowledges th e important leading role that Jamaica continues to play in the 
promotion of regional market integration. Its active participation in the Caribbean Single Market 
Economy (CSME) has promoted the free trade of goods and services between CARICOM members 
of the  CSME and the free movement of certain categories of labour.  
4.7.  In closing, Australia will continue to work with Jamaica along with other CARICOM members 
to strengthen and deepen our relationship, while also encouraging sustained economic 
performance through trade and investment growth.  
MEXICO 
4.8.  This fourth review is an excellent opportunity for us to highlight Jamaica's active participation 
in the WTO and to thank Ambassador Wayne McCook for his invaluable contributions, endeavours 
and dedication, both as his c ountry's representative and in his capacity as Chairman of the 
Negotiating Group on Rules.  
4.9.  Over the past six years, Jamaica has made progress in restoring macroeconomic stability, in 
no small measure thanks to the implementation of its Economic Reform Prog ramme.  
4.10.   Among these favourable developments, we emphasize the following:  
i. With the highest debt level in the Latin American and Caribbean region, Jamaica has 
nonetheless reduced its public debt/GDP ratio from 140.3% to 122.5%, mainly thanks to 
cuts in public  spending and the fact that revenues have remained constant.  
ii. The creation of a government procurement portal that allows electronic submission of 
bids. Jamaica is one of the six countries in the region where electronic invoices can be 
submitted under such a system.  
iii. Implementation of major changes to Jamaica's tax policy, thus establishing a more 
transparent and equitable framework.  
iv. A significant decline in inflation levels, which fell from 7.3% to 4.1% during the review 
period.  
4.11.   This has enabled Jamaica to i mprove its credit rating and increase investor confidence.  
4.12.   On the other hand, the low level of economic growth that has afflicted the country for 
decades remains unchanged, pointing to the need to pursue the reforms, particularly those geared WT/TPR/M/359  • Jamaica  
 
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  towards promo ting employment, buttressing social security, increasing public sector efficiency and 
maintaining a strong financial system.  
4.13.   We acknowledge the Jamaican Government's efforts to improve the trade environment, 
attract foreign investment and spur growth, appl ying strategies aimed at achieving greater 
integration into the multilateral trading system and global value chains, such as the creation of 
Special Economic Zones and the objective of becoming a global logistics hub. This, however, 
requires further effort s to reduce the obstacles undermining competitiveness and development, 
such as crime, insecurity and inefficient government bureaucracy, which the business community 
commonly cites as inhibiting factors.  
4.14.   Tariffs and other duties on imports account for a su bstantial and growing share of 
government revenue. We cannot but express concern at the fact that the applied rates exceed 
their bound levels, with a gap of more than 10 percentage points for some tariff lines. We would 
like to know whether Jamaica has tak en steps to remedy the discrepancy.  
4.15.   Services are still the main contributor to the economy, accounting for 70% of GDP and 
employing 67% of the workforce.  
4.16.   Turning to telecommunications, we underscore the measures that have strengthened 
competition in the se ctor, such as number portability and lower mobile termination rates, as well 
as the impressive increase in the Internet penetration rate, which jumped from 4.4% to 65% in 
barely five years and has become the primary means of communication in Jamaica.  
4.17.   As regards transport, Jamaica has made significant legislative changes that will reduce costs 
and improve connectivity. This will undoubtedly boost the tourism industry, help to diversify the 
economy and generate employment.  
4.18.   Tourism, the driver of the Jamaican economy, has been strengthened by major 
modifications to the sector's legislative framework, which will have an impact on its 
competitiveness.  
4.19.   Trade being a decisive factor in the country's economic growth strategy, Jamaica has a 
number of challenges yet t o address in order to facilitate international transactions and attain its 
objective of becoming an important logistics hub in the Caribbean region.  
4.20.   Aware of these challenges, Jamaica has established a Working Group on Trade Facilitation 
comprising both th e public and the private sector. It is important for the country to pursue its 
endeavours to ensure prompt implementation of cross -border trade facilitation measures, such as 
the new Customs Act and effective use of information as well as customs and risk management 
systems.  
4.21.   My delegation hopes that Jamaica will forge ahead with its reforms, remain committed to 
the multilateral trading system and maintain its open economy, all of which will undoubtedly 
contribute to its development and the achievement of it s goals under the "Vision 2030" National 
Development Plan.  
4.22.   To conclude, I thank the Jamaican Government in advance for its replies to my delegation's 
questions. We wish the Jamaican delegation every success in this fourth trade policy review.  
COLOMBIA  
4.23.   Colombia and Jamaica are neighbours that share an extensive maritime boundary, maintain 
optimal diplomatic relations and have enormous potential for expanding their economic and trade 
relationship. Colombia regards Jamaica as an inescapable historical referenc e point as we look 
back at the birth of our nation. Simón Bolívar, hero of our liberation and our very first President, 
wrote what is now known as the "Jamaica Letter" in Kingston, setting out his vision for our nation 
in the context of an independent and integrated America.  
4.24.   For all these reasons, this fourth review of Jamaica's trade policies gives us occasion to 
repeat that Colombia considers it a priority to strengthen our bilateral trade and investment. Under WT/TPR/M/359  • Jamaica  
 
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  CARICOM, Colombia has a bilateral partial sc ope agreement with Jamaica concerning goods, and 
as regards services, our countries have similar and potentially complementary strategies. Both 
economies can benefit from further trade integration at an appealing level of complementarity.  
4.25.   Turning to the su bstance of this review, we consider Jamaica's membership as very 
important to this Organization. Its consistent and active systemic participation since its entry into 
the GATT in 1963 and the way in which it has come to assume a leadership role in the ACP and 
Friends of the System groups makes it a relevant actor in any ongoing negotiation. As members of 
the Friends of the System group, Colombia and Jamaica share the view that this Organization is 
essential to global governance. Moreover, a group of Latin A merican countries, along with Jamaica 
as an ACP member, has been working very constructively to achieve results in the negotiations 
aimed at disciplining fisheries subsidies.  
4.26.   During the period under review, Jamaica experienced sluggish growth of less than 1%, due 
to the fall in commodity prices, among other things. However, it is worth highlighting Jamaica's 
major strides in the macroeconomic sphere and the prudent fiscal policy pursued in order to 
reduce its budget deficit to 0.7% in the latest fiscal year . 
4.27.   Equally noteworthy are the fall in inflation and the overall stability of its currency within a 
flexible exchange rate scheme. Jamaica's ambitious macroeconomic targets will undoubtedly help 
to lay a sound basis for galvanizing economic growth.  
4.28.   Another n oteworthy point in the Secretariat report is the fairly substantial share of import 
taxes accounting for 40% of government revenue. The concentration of exports on commodities 
such as aluminium and bauxite are a factor of vulnerability which the Government  is seeking to 
counter by diversifying the economy and its sources of income from abroad.  
4.29.   In this connection, we note how Jamaica has re -designed its incentives strategy to promote 
trade and investment (FDI) and is implementing its "Vision 2030" Plan, all of which has enhanced 
its business environment. We commend Jamaica for the way in which it has improved its World 
Bank business climate ranking to attract FDI, moving from 81st place in 2011 to 67th in 2017. 
Likewise, annual FDI inflows rose from US$412  million in 2011 to US$856  million in 2016, and its 
FDI inward stock increased from US$12,199  million in 2011 to US$15,027  million in 2016.  
4.30.   We also take positive note of the part played by financial and banking services in general, 
and its foreign trade banks  in particular, in Jamaica's incentive scheme to attract investment, by 
facilitating access to credit for potential exporters, targeting SMEs in particular. The World Bank 
rightly ranks Jamaica among the top developing countries for ease of getting credit.1 
4.31.   The updating of Jamaica's legislation governing intellectual property and free zones is an 
important milestone on the path to improving the business climate and boosting exports. There is 
still work to be done, however, to make further headway with the r eforms needed to provide 
greater legal certainty for domestic and foreign investors.  
4.32.   On the agricultural front, we note how Jamaica has incorporated agro -industry into its 
export strategy. Its policy to improve agricultural output and the latter's share in  the economy 
through a variety of initiatives such as the agro -park model is interesting from the standpoint of 
fostering agricultural development in other countries of the region.  
4.33.   Services account for 70% of the economy. We highlight the implementation of  Jamaica's 
strategy to outsource remote services – a strategy on which Colombia has, incidentally, also been 
working in order to attract investment and turn this industry into a major source of external 
resources.  
4.34.   The tourism industry remains a key driver of the economy. This services sector is of 
particular interest to Colombia, not only because of the potential it offers to increase bilateral 
tourism as a means of boosting our trade and intensifying cultural rapprochement between 
two neighbours, but also because of Colombia's interest in positioning tourism as one of the main 
future -growth sectors, building on the experience of countries like Jamaica.  
                                                
1 Footnote 28 of the Secretariat report, referring to the World Bank's Doing Business 2017  report.  WT/TPR/M/359  • Jamaica  
 
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  4.35.   Lastly, we would like to congratulate His Excellency Ambassador Wayne McCook for his work 
in support of th is Organization. Ambassador McCook is both respected and valued for his skill and 
common sense as he so aptly leads the Negotiating Group on Rules.  
4.36.   To conclude, we wish Jamaica a successful trade policy review.  
CANADA  
4.37.   We would like to thank Ambassador McCo ok for his tireless efforts at the WTO, both on 
behalf of his country and as Chair of the Rules Committee.  
4.38.   Jamaica is one of Canada 's closest partners in the Caribbean. Our bilateral relationship 
encompasses trade and investment, security and defence coope ration, official development 
assistance, tourism, and a large Jamaican community in Can ada, estimated at about 
300,000  people.  
4.39.   Our countries can trace the roots of their trade and investment relationship back to the late 
18th century. Today, Jamaica is on e of Canada 's leading merchandise trading partners among 
CARICOM countries, and Canada is the third largest export market for Jamaican goods. Our 
bilateral trade in services is significant and growing and our commercial relationship is particularly 
strong in the financial sector. Also, Jamaica is a beneficiary of the CARIBCAN, a unilateral 
preferential tariff program through which Canada extends duty -free access to the Canadian market 
for a wide range of goods.   
4.40.   Canada and Jamaica are close neighbours in t he Americas and as such we face common 
challenges: creating inclusive growth and jobs for our citizens, addressing challenges relating to 
migration, crime and security and dealing with the effects of climate change.  
4.41.   Canada is committed to advancing the pro motion of free and open trade that contributes to 
sustainable economic growth. As a friend and partner, Canada is pleased that Jamaica, with its 
Vision 2030 National Development Plan, is also committed to ensuring that the wider population 
benefits from tr ade through increased revenues and employment.  
4.42.   Canada commends Jamaica for its significant efforts since the last Review to implement 
structural reforms, and stimulate private sector -led growth. This includes the Data Protection Act, 
expected to be tabled in Parliament for fiscal year 2017 -18, and the 2015  Cybercrimes Act. The 
Jamaican G overnment passed and promulgated the Special Economic Zone (SEZ) Act which makes 
provisions in respect of the development and management of these zones in Jamaica. The 
legislation represents a milestone achievement as part of the Global Logistics Hub Initiative. We 
also welcome the fact that, to  support reforms, the Jamaican G overnment requested a new IMF 
loan in November 2016, a Stand -By Arrangement which the G overnment is t reating as insurance 
against unforeseen external economic shocks.  
4.43.   By pursuing prudent fiscal policy and reducing public debt, Jamaica has made strides 
towards macroeconomic stability. We recognize Jamaica 's fiscal discipline during the period under 
review , a challenge for any country, and encourage sustained efforts on this front.  
4.44.   Canada also welcomes the measures that Jamaica has taken to attract larger FDI inflows 
and improve the business climate, resulting in a jump of 14 places in the World Bank 's Doin g 
Business ranking between 2011 and 2017.  
4.45.   However, Jamaica has struggled with low growth for decades and the latest economic 
indicators show little improvement. The fact that one fifth of Jamaican citizens still live under the 
poverty line is a clear indic ation that Jamaica must maintain its steady implementation of reforms. 
The Economic Growth Council created by Prime Minister Holness in 2016 and chaired by 
Canadian -Jamaican businessman Michael Lee Chin, has put together a strategy to achieve 
significant g rowth in four years and results are beginning to show. While negative external shocks 
have contributed to slow growth, several factors continue to hinder growth in Jamaica. Allow me to 
highlight three areas which we believe require increased attention.  WT/TPR/M/359  • Jamaica  
 
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  4.46.   First, we are concerned about  the security environment. The G overnment has introduced 
various anti -crime strategies over the past years, and limited improvements have been noted for 
the first six months of this year. However, in order to see durable improvem ents in Jamaica 's 
security environment, comprehensive measures are needed to address key issues such as chronic 
institutional weaknesses in the security forces. Until then, gang -related crime, fear for personal 
safety, and the lack of faith in local instit utions to combat these challenges will continue to limit 
economic growth and development in the country.  
4.47.   Second, Canada supports regional integration as a means to help address the challenges 
Caribbean countries face given their small size and fewer option s for economic diversity. 
CARICOM 's work to advance the development of its members, including through creation of the 
single market economy is crucial. Jamaica was one of the first member countries to implement the 
first component of the CARICOM Single Mar ket and Economy (CSME) in 2006. Unfortunately, since 
this positive first step, progress has slowed. Jamaica is a leading and influential regional player 
and Canada encourages Jamaica to continue exercising strong leadership on this issue, which is 
central to the economic development of the region.  
4.48.   Thirdly, in the WTO context, noting that Jamaica ratified the WTO Agreement on Trade 
Facilitation in January 2016, we encourage Jamaica to submit its outstanding notifications under 
Section II of the Agreement wi thout further delay. We would also encourage Jamaica to accept the 
Protocol to amend the TRIPS Agreement.  
4.49.   Finally, Canada wishes to express our continued commitment to support the Government 
and people of Jamaica in pursuing sustainable economic growth an d combatting the challenges it 
faces domestically and regionally.  
REPUBLIC  OF KOREA  
4.50.   I am pleased that Korea and Jamaica have enjoyed an excellent bilateral relationship over 
the years. Trade and investment flows between the two countries, however, remain a t a modest 
level. Bilateral trade hovers at around US$30 million. Neither has Korean companies ' investment in 
Jamaica reached a significant amount.  
4.51.   Yet, in 2011, Korea 's East West Power Company entered into the Jamaican electricity 
market with a holding of  40% of the stock of Jamaica Public Service (JPS). We expect that this will 
be followed by further investments by Korean small and medium companies in related sectors.  
4.52.   From 1991 to 2015, Korea provided Jamaica with a development aid of US$7.8 million 
relating to private sector development, urgent relief activities and macroeconomic stabilization 
support.  
4.53.   The modest level of bilateral economic relationship is partly due to the great geographic 
distance between the two countries. Nevertheless, we believe that  more active efforts to promote 
Jamaica 's products and investment environment to the Korean business community will be able to 
help expand bilateral commercial flows. We also believe that entering into a trade agreement, 
through the CARICOM, with Korea can  be an effective way to enhance the bilateral economic 
relationship.  
4.54.   Since its previous TPR in 2011, Jamaica has made significant progress in the difficult process 
of adapting to the global economy.  
4.55.   We welcome the Jamaican Government 's plans to achieve bro ad trade and development 
goals as set out in the National Development Plan – Vision 2030 and the Growth Agenda. In 
addition, we note that as of mid -2017, a new Foreign Trade Policy is being drafted which will 
facilitate the alignment of trade policy and st rategy with the Growth Agenda. These policies will 
help Jamaica enjoy greater benefits from trade and achieve sustainable development.  
4.56.   We also commend Jamaica for its active participation in WTO activities. We appreciate that, 
during the review period, Jam aica ratified the Trade Facilitation Agreement (TFA) and submitted 
notifications to the WTO in a number of areas. However, as indicated in the Secretariat 's report, it WT/TPR/M/359  • Jamaica  
 
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  is necessary to point out that no notifications have been made in the areas of customs v aluation 
and GATS since 2011.  
4.57.   While it is fair to highlight Jamaica 's achievements, I would like to take this opportunity to 
point out some concerns over Jamaica 's trade -related policies. We are concerned about the recent 
escalation of Jamaica 's average ap plied tariff rate by 1%.2 We also note that the gap between 
applied and bound tariffs remains wide, and in some cases the applied rates are above their bound 
levels.  
4.58.   Furthermore, although taxes and charges on imports have been cut over the last few years, 
they still remain at a high level of around 40% of total tax revenue in FY2016/17.  
4.59.   In our view, all these sectors tend to undermine the confidence and predictability that the 
Jamaican Government is endeavouring to build. We hope and trust that the Jamaican  Government 
will work closely with other WTO Members to address these concerns in a timely and appropriate 
manner.  
4.60.   At this TPR, my delegation submitted advance written questions on the Electricity Act of 
2015, which stipulates some measures that the Jamaic an Government is taking to prevent 
electricity theft. My delegation also raised questions on Jamaica 's procurement system for SMEs.  
4.61.   We thank the delegation of Jamaica for providing answers to those questions, which we will 
review carefully.  
4.62.   Korea is please d to note the steps Jamaica has taken since the last review to make the 
overall trading environment more efficient and we certainly encourage Jamaica to continue in the 
direction of facilitating trade, increasing investment, strengthening administrative ca pacity and 
enhancing the overall economic environment in a sustainable way.  
4.63.   Korea looks forward to working with Jamaica to enhance opportunities for trade and 
investment, and hence promote Jamaica 's economic growth.  
4.64.   In closing, I would like to express appr eciation to the delegation of Jamaica for their hard 
work and wish them every success in this TPR.  
SINGAPORE  
4.65.   Singapore enjoys cord ial and warm ties with Jamaica.  Although separated by a vast 
distance, we share the common challenges of being small island st ates that are dependent on 
international trade and investment as well as being  vulnerable to external shocks.  Jamaica is 
Singapore 's 11th largest tra ding partner in the Caribbean. Bilateral trade between our countries 
has been increasing over the years, wi th bilateral trade in goods a lone increasing 13.5% in 2016. 
The increase in flow of services trade has been even higher, experiencing an increase o f 75% on a 
year-on-year basis. This trend of deepening economic relations indicates that there is scope for 
deeper economic relations between our countries and we look forward to realising this potential in 
the coming years.  
4.66.   Since the last trade policy review of the Jamaica in 2011, Jamaica has restored 
macroeconomic stability, pursued prudent fiscal policy, redu ced public deb t and reformed its tax 
policy. We note that Jamaica is reviewing its foreign trade policy to strengthen the role of trade as 
a driver of ec onomic growth and development. We view this as an important step in the further 
liberal isation of its t rading regime.  
4.67.   Singapore appreciates Jamaica 's engagement with th e multilateral trading system. At the 
WTO, Jamaica is an active and important player in the negotiations, and contributes to the w ork of 
the regular Committees. We commend the role of Ambass ador Wayne McCook for his constructive 
work as the Chair of the Negotiating Group on Rules.  We also welcome Jamaica 's ratification of the 
Trade Facilitation Agreement (TFA) in 2016 and its recent submission of its Categories B a nd C 
commitments in July 201 7. We note that Jamaica has established a trade facilitation taskforce to 
                                                
2 Jamaica 's simple average applied MFN tariff rose from 9.4% in 2010 to 10.4% in 2017.  WT/TPR/M/359  • Jamaica  
 
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  develop an implementation road map and project plan, and we look forward to the sw ift 
implementation of the TFA.  
4.68.   We note Jamaica 's WTO notifications in a number of areas but observe  that there are 
outstanding notifications in the areas  of customs valuation and GATS.  We encourage Jamaica to 
make continued efforts with respect to the outstanding notifications. We further encourage 
Jamaica to consider being an observer in the Government  Procurement Agreement with a view to 
future GPA accession.   
4.69.   Singapore looks forward to continuing our close and constructive cooperation with Jamaica 
in the WTO, including through its Mission in Geneva, to uphold th e multilateral trading system. 
Finally , we thank Jamaica for the timely responses to our questions and wish them every success 
in the Trade Policy Review.  
COSTA  RICA 
4.70.   Costa Rica's relationship with Jamaica began 145 years ago – on 20  December  1872, to be 
precise – when the first ship carrying Ja maican workers set sail from Kingston on its way to 
Costa  Rica. The mission was to lift Costa Rica out of isolation by building a railroad between our 
coffee -producing valleys and the port of Limón on the Caribbean coast, thus facilitating their 
access to the markets of Europe and North America.  
4.71.   By 1913, 20,000 Jamaicans were living in Costa Rica, where the Afro -Caribbean culture they 
brought with them flourished and took root. The former offices of the Black Star Line in the city of 
Limón are now part of C osta Rican cultural heritage. Rice and beans, patti, gizzada, calypso, 
reggae and the Creole -English  dialect Mekatelyu are but a few examples of the extensive cultural, 
artistic and linguistic legacy left by Jamaica in Costa Rica and in which 8% of our pop ulation today 
have their roots.  
4.72.   At the bilateral level, our peoples not only share historical ties but also have strong trade 
links, as reflected by the signing of the Free Trade Agreement between Costa Rica and CARICOM in 
March  2004. Our trade is highly c omplementary and it therefore comes as no surprise that Jamaica 
is Costa Rica's main trading partner, accounting for one third of our exports to the region.  
4.73.   At the multilateral level, Costa Rica views Jamaica as a Member that has demonstrated its 
active co mmitment to the multilateral trading system and has always taken a constructive position 
open to dialogue. In this connection, I can only congratulate Ambassador McCook, in his capacity 
as Chairman of the Negotiating Group on Rules, for this dedication, ob jectiveness and guidance in 
the negotiations on fisheries subsidies.  
4.74.   In this review, we acknowledge the work done by Jamaica in recent years to strengthen its 
economy and consolidate macroeconomic stability under its "Vision 2030" National Development 
Plan: it has reduced its public debt; undertaken changes to its tax policy; kept inflation under 
control; doubled its international reserves; and more than halved the current account deficit. On 
the other hand, the Secretariat report also clearly underscores t he major challenge of economic 
growth remaining insufficient to address the urgent needs of one fifth of the population that still 
lives in poverty. In this respect, the goals of Jamaica's "Vision 2030" Plan are ambitious but 
feasible; we are pleased to le arn that the Jamaican Government has declared trade to be one of its 
core priorities for increasing revenue, generating employment and promoting inclusive 
development under its economic growth agenda.  
4.75.   The agenda is far -reaching in that its objective is to increase the stability and flexibility of 
the trade matrix and reduce the latter's high concentration in export products and destinations, 
which includes a review of tariff and non -tariff barriers that inhibit greater integration into regional 
value chains . Further efforts are also needed to enhance transparency and streamline procedures 
under the customs regimes and investment incentive schemes; both pillars are critical for 
developing key infrastructure and boosting innovation and entrepreneurship. We sha ll closely 
follow the outcomes, in these areas, of Jamaica's new foreign trade policy, which is currently being 
drafted, its second national export strategy and its draft trade facilitation strategy. We also 
consider it important that these policies should  be aligned with an overall strategy aimed at WT/TPR/M/359  • Jamaica  
 
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  building resilience to climate change, a factor that is becoming increasingly relevant in a region as 
vulnerable as the Caribbean basin.  
4.76.   Costa Rica has an ongoing interest in the trade policies of a partner as close and important 
as Jamaica, particularly in the development of its production diversification policies, the 
streamlining of procedures, investment promotion, trade in services, and regional integration. In 
the context of this review, Costa Rica submitt ed questions concerning these and other issues and 
looks forward to Jamaica's replies.  
4.77.   I would like to conclude by wishing the Jamaican delegation every success in this trade 
policy review and close with a thought from Jamaica's national hero Marcus Garvey , which seems 
to me to serve as a reminder of our work in the multilateral trading system and its fundamental 
role in achieving the Sustainable Development Goals: "The ends you serve that are selfish will take 
you no further than yourself, but the ends you  serve that are for all, in common, will take you into 
eternity".  
UNITED  STATES  
4.78.   With one of the largest economies in the Caribbean region, Jamaica has a leading position  
on economic and trade issues. Through its economic reforms, Jamaica made significant 
improvements to its business environment, resulting in top -ten improved economies status in the 
World Bank 's Doing Busi ness reports in 2015 and 2016. Jamaica was recognized by the Financial 
Times as the top performing island globally in "business friendline ss" and among the top ten in 
"connectivity, " "human capital, " and "lifestyle. " The Government of Jamaica, through successive 
administrations, implemented economic reforms through its International Monetary Fund 
program mes starting in 2013 to achieve these recognitions.   
4.79.   Jamaica has been a major proponent of regional economic integration and was among the 
first to reduce duties on go ods from its CARICOM partners. The country remains the largest 
recipient of CARICOM goods, importing US$618 million worth in 2 016 and exporting US$58 million 
to other CARICOM States. This trade deficit is due in part to Jamaica 's firm stance against export 
subsidies and local content requirements.  
4.80.   Jamaica is also a strong trading partner of the United States – one of th e most imp ortant in 
the region.  Forty percent of Jamaica 's total trade flowed to the United States in 2016.  U.S. 
exports to Jamaica total led US$1.7 billion, including mineral fuels, machinery, cereals, prepared 
food, and othe r agricultural products. U.S. foreign di rect investment in Jamaica was 
US$204  million in 20 15, a 2.0% increase from 2014. The United States provides duty -free 
treatment for almost all p roducts imported from Jamaica. Imported items include alumina, rum, 
and food products. We encourage Jamaica to take advantage of these trade opportunities as it 
develops its National Export Strategy, an element  of the Vision 2030 initiative.  The United States is 
also home to one of the largest communities of persons of Jamaican heritage, est imated to be 
more than 7 00,000.  Reflective of Jamaica 's success in tourism, more than 1.3 million visitors were 
from the United States last year.  Indeed, the number of American visitors grew  faster than the 
average rate.  
4.81.   The Jamaican economy is heavily dependent on services such as tourism; services account 
for more than 70 % of GDP. Earnings from remittances and tourism each account for about 15 % of 
GDP. But Jamaica 's economy has grown on average by less than 1 % a year for the last three 
decades, and impediments to growth remain, such as the large public sector which crowds out 
private -sector spending and the high level of debt as a result.  Jamaica, however, has made 
commendable progress in reducing its debt -to-GDP ratio to about 115 % in 2017 from a high of 
almost 150 % in 2012. Jamaica's goal of reducing its debt burden to 60 % of GDP by 2025 will help 
free resources for investment in trade and o ther growth -producing sectors. Already, Jamaica has 
seen signs of increased economic growth at 1.7 % last year.  
4.82.   As we stressed in the last re view in 2011, implementing and ensuring science based SPS 
measures facilitates trade in high -quality agriculture products. Unfortunately, Jamaica still bans 
imports of U.S. pork due to concerns about a viral  disease that can affect swine.  As the United 
States has explained to Jamaica, this disease has been eliminated in commercial production in  the 
United States as of 2004. We will, once again, be interested to hear from Jamaica about its plans WT/TPR/M/359  • Jamaica  
 
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  to remove it s ban on imports of U.S. pork. We hope that this Tr ade Policy Review will encourage 
Jamaica to focus on the importance of consistently implementing science -based sanitary and 
phytosanitary measures as a critical component of its competitiveness strategy.  
4.83.   The United States welcomed Jamaica 's leadership is the negotiation of the Trade Facilitation 
Agreement as well as its ratificat ion of that agreement in 2016. The TFA holds great promise for 
developing country Membe rs to boost trade performance. We also note that a Trade Facilitation 
Task Force will develop  a road map and project plan to "enhance the potential contribution  of trade 
to economic growth. " We welcome any opportunity, for us or other stakeholders, to provide input  
on this important initiative.  
4.84.   As the Secretariat r eport points out, Jamaica is a me mber of several intellectual property 
treaties, including the Berne Convention, the WIPO Copyright Treaty, the WIPO Performances and 
Phonograms Tr eaty, and the Beijing Treaty. While further progress is needed, Jamaica deserves 
credit for its re gional leade rship in this area.  Last June, the U.S. Government worked with the 
Jamaican and CARICOM authorities to condu ct a Broadcast Piracy Seminar. Approximately 
45 CARICOM member states officials and 30 private sector representatives attended the 
program me. U.S. c ontent providers offered to explore the possibility of a collective license for the 
smaller, community -based cable operators, and the broadcast regulatory agencies committed to 
revoking licenses of cable operators who continue to transmit unlicensed conten t. Given progress 
in the area of copyright protection, we hope the Government of Jamaica will commit to  joining the 
Marrakesh Treaty.  
4.85.   The United States looks forward to working with Jamaica to increase prosperity in th e 
Caribbean and the hemisphere.  By con tinuing with structural debt reduction, public sector reforms, 
and anti -corruption efforts, Jamaica is making progress toward building susta ined economic 
growth. We encourage Jamaica, in the implementation of its National Trade Policy Framework, to 
focus o n policies that enable investment in growth area s such as the services sector.  
4.86.   Finally, and more personally, I would like to offer a particular tribute to the role that 
Ambassador McCook has played, and continues to play, within this O rganiza tion on behalf  of his 
country. Ambassador McCook has taken on some of the toughest assignments on offer here, and 
has always risen to the challenge. We are grateful to his devotion to the core principles of the 
WTO, and his willingness to speak truth to po wer in many di fferent contexts.  This is no ordinary 
ambassador – thank you, Wayne, for your work here.  
4.87.   We wish Jamaica a successful Trade Policy Review.  
BRAZIL  
4.88.   On behalf of Ambassador Evandro Didonet, I would like to ackno wledge H. E. Ambassador 
Wayne Mc Cook and his tea m in Geneva for their contributions to the adva ncement of the debates 
in this O rganization.  
4.89.   During the review period, Jamaica has made worthy efforts aimed at promoting economic 
stability through firm fiscal policy, reduction of public debt and tax reform.  The steady 
implementation of structural reforms in the business environment as well as cautious 
macroeconomic policies seems critical to boost growth and reduce poverty.  
4.90.   Agriculture remains a key sector in the Jamaican economy, accounting for around 7% o f its 
GDP. The agricultural sector employs about 18% of the total workforce. However, its development 
has been constrained by an insufficient infrastructure and natural disasters.  
4.91.   Despite being a net food importer, Jamaica keeps a high level of tariff prot ection for 
agricultural products, which is substantially greater than for non -agricultural products. Also, total 
protection is even more burdensome to agricultural imports, since supplementary stamp duties are 
collected in particular on these types of prod ucts, and other non -tariff barriers such as import 
licensing are also applied.  
4.92.   Relations with Jamaica are of particular importance to Brazil both for its strategic position in 
the Caribbean Basin and for its active participation in regional economic integr ation arrangements, WT/TPR/M/359  • Jamaica  
 
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  in particular, CARICOM. We welcomed with great satisfaction the opening of the Jamaica Embassy 
in Brasilia in 2013, and we hope this will further economic and trade dialogue between our 
governments and private sector as well.  
4.93.   A Brazil -Jamaica Bilateral Commission, which first met on February 2014, has opened the 
door for cooperation on tax information exchange, air transport services, education and 
professional training, including in the area of tourism, and fruit production and processi ng. The 
Brazilian Institute of Applied Economic Research (IPEA) provides support on monitoring, evaluation 
and technical advice for "Vision 2030 Jamaica " National Development Plan.  
4.94.   Despite our diplomatic friendship and increasing bilateral cooperation init iatives, trade and 
investment relations between Jamaica and Brazil have yet to achieve their full potential. Bilateral 
trade is still small and highly concentrated in few products; in the case of Brazilian exports mostly 
food products. Trade flows fell sha rply in recent years.  
4.95.   Brazilian exporters are interested in diversifying exports of meat products to the Jamaican 
market, in particular, through the offer of fresh beef and poultry. They have faced difficulties with 
regard to SPS certification procedures a nd we are seeking clarification on this issue. Also, we 
would like to obtain further information on current policy regime to the sugar and ethanol sector.  
4.96.   We urge Jamaica to expand opportunities for agricultural market access as a way to 
guarantee food sec urity and reliability in the supply. Brazilian food products can play an important 
role here, including in the supply to the tourism industry value chain.  
4.97.   We thank Jamaica for the written replies to our questions, which were forwarded to our 
capital for e xamination and follow -up. 
4.98.   Brazil wishes Jamaica a very successful Trade Policy Review.  
EUROPEAN  UNION  
4.99.   Let me use this opportunity to salu te the work of Jamaica in this Organiz ation, especially of 
Ambassador McCook as the Chairman of Rules Negotiating Grou p. I also would like to express EU 's 
sympathy and support for all the habitants of the Caribbean region, battered by the recent 
hurricanes.  
4.100.   The EU would like to start by highlighting some of the positive issues that have emerged 
during the period under re view. 
4.101.   First, in January 2016, Jamaica ratified the WTO Trade Facilitation Agreement. Jamaica 
submitted its notifications as well as established its National Committee for Trade Facilitation 
already in February 2015. We would like to take this opportunity t o also congratulate Jamaica for 
being one of the winners in a recent case study competition on Trade Facilitation organized by the 
WTO in collaboration with the World Bank Group. We encourage Jamaica to keep up its efforts to 
modernize its customs procedur es. A new Customs Act, to be submitted to the Parliament in 2017, 
is a step in the right direction.  
4.102.   Second, the EU welcomes Jamaica 's repeal of four schemes notified to the WTO as 
containing export subsidies (the Export Industry Encouragement Act; the Indu strial Incentives 
(Factory Construction) Act; the Foreign Sales Corporation Act; and the Jamaica Export Free Zones 
Act).  
4.103.   Third, we congratulate Jamaica on its attempt to improve public procurement. However, 
we regret that a domestic preference of up to 10 % and a reservation of 15% of procurements for 
domestic SMEs is to be applied.  
4.104.   With reference to Jamaica 's overall economic policy, we believe that, since the last TPR of 
Jamaica in 2011, the country has made remarkable progress in restoring macroeconomic stability, 
pursuing prudent fiscal policy and reducing public debt.  WT/TPR/M/359  • Jamaica  
 
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  4.105.   Jamaica is a small, open economy, highly dependent on international trade. Trade 
accounted for an average around 80% of GDP during the review period. It is noteworthy that 
services, in pa rticular tourism, are the main contributors to the economy by some 70% of GDP and 
employing some 67% of the workforce. The EU welcomes the level of liberalisation in the services 
sector.  
4.106.   Since 2011, EU -Jamaica trade has increased and the EU is one of Jamai ca's main trade 
partners. Jamaica signed the EU -CARIFORUM Economic Partnership Agreement (EPA) in 2008, 
which aims at promoting regional trade and cooperation opportunities.  
4.107.   Let me add that the EU and its Member States consider aid for trade -related assis tance 
and support to institutional capacity -building very important. For the period 2014 -2020, Jamaica 
has been granted a national allocation of €46 million under the 11th European Development Fund 
(EDF), to assist the reform of the justice system, protect  the environment, curb climate change 
and manage the public finances.  
4.108.   Despite all these positive developments the EU would also like to raise a few concerns, 
some related to the questions we addressed earlier in writing.  
4.109.   First of all, we would like to high light the importance for the Jamaican Government to 
pursue efforts to fight corruption.  
4.110.   Second, the EU would encourage Jamaica to improve infrastructure as well as property 
registration in order to increase potential growth and reduce poverty.  
4.111.   Finally, th e EU is concerned about the use of non -tariff charges such as additional stamp 
duties on certain products.  
4.112.   On behalf of the EU, I look forward to a constructive exchange of views during this review 
and I wish Jamaica 's delegation the utmost success during its Trade Policy Review.  
DOMINICAN  REPUBLIC  
4.113.   The Dominican Republic shares close bonds of friendship with Jamaica, as an ACP country, 
a member of the Group of Small, Vulnerable Economies, and a party to the CARIFORUM -EU 
Economic Partnership Agreement.  
4.114.   The D ominican Republic actively trades with Jamaica, its exports averaging US$52  million 
per year in 2010 -2016. Imports into the Dominican Republic averaged US$0.59  million over that 
same period.  
4.115.   We would like to congratulate Jamaica because, as stated in the S ecretariat report, over 
the 2011 -2017 period covered by this review the country has made major strides in restoring 
macroeconomic stability, pursuing prudent fiscal policy, reducing public debt and introducing 
significant changes to its tax policy. Moreove r, the financial system has become more resilient to 
shocks, inflation is at historic lows, and the current account deficit has more than halved, 
decreasing from 13.6% in FY2011/2012 to 3.2% in FY2016/2017, largely owing to reduced import 
costs (notably fu els) and sustained tourism and remittances earnings; net international reserves 
have doubled and business confidence is high.  
4.116.   In spite of all these favourable developments, there is still the challenge of economic 
growth, which remains elusive with an aver age real GDP growth rate below 1% since 2011. As a 
result, one fifth of the population continues to live below the poverty line. Moreover, merchandise 
exports remain highly concentrated geographically, with the United States, the European Union 
and Canada together taking over more than two thirds of the total. We therefore encourage 
Jamaica to make efforts in this regard.  
4.117.   It is important to emphasize that in November  2016, Jamaica signed a three -year 
precautionary Stand -By Arrangement (SBA) with the IMF. Th e aim of this arrangement 
(approximately US$1.64  billion) is, inter alia , to reduce public debt from 122.5% of GDP in 
FY2016/2017 to 60% by FY2025/2026 by maintaining a primary surplus at 7% of GDP for the WT/TPR/M/359  • Jamaica  
 
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  duration of the new arrangement, modernizing the m onetary policy framework, and building the 
foundation for an eventual move to inflation targeting.  
4.118.   Jamaica is taking measures to attract larger FDI inflows and improve the business climate, 
such as simplifying the tax system, broadening the tax base, imple menting an electronic platform 
for the payment of taxes, and establishing a 90 -day window for the approval of development 
projects. It has also issued or amended a large amount of legislation since 2011, including the 
Insolvency Act, the Fiscal Incentives Act, the Special Economic Zones (SEZ) Act, the Public 
Procurement Act, the Bank Services Act, and the Electricity Act, among others. Nonetheless, 
private investment continues to be inhibited by several factors, notably crime and theft, inefficient 
governme nt bureaucracy, and relatively high tax rates. We commend the Jamaican authorities for 
all these efforts and urge them to continue along this path.  
4.119.   Jamaica ratified the Trade Facilitation Agreement in January  2016 and a new Customs Act 
is to be submitted t o Parliament this year in order to facilitate trade, encourage voluntary 
compliance with customs laws and procedures and effectively support the implementation of 
ASYCUDA World. In addition, Jamaica has improved the use of risk management systems.  
4.120.   We are p leased to note Jamaica's low simple average applied MFN tariff, which stood at 
10.4% in 2017. According to the Secretariat report, however, MFN applied rates exceed their 
bound levels for 32 tariff lines, and for some products the gap is over 10 percentage  points. We 
urge Jamaica to remedy this situation.  
4.121.   We also congratulate Jamaica for adopting a new SEZ Act in an attempt to meet its 
obligations under the WTO Agreement on Subsidies and Countervailing Measures. Under the 
Omnibus Incentives Legislation 2014 , Jamaica repealed the four tax incentive schemes that were 
notified to the WTO as containing export subsidies.  
4.122.   Once again, we welcome Jamaica's major legislative reforms in recent years, such as the 
first stand -alone Public Procurement Act (PPA), signed i n December  2015 and expected to enter 
into force during 2017, and Jamaica's Copyright Act, which was recently amended inter alia  to 
extend the term of copyright protection from 50 to 95 years for original literary, dramatic, musical 
and artistic works and to fulfil Jamaica's obligations under the WIPO Copyright Treaty and the 
WIPO Performances and Phonograms Treaty. Jamaica also amended its Trade Marks Act. We 
encourage it to accept the Protocol amending the TRIPS Agreement as well.  
4.123.   Services are the main co ntributor to the economy, accounting for some 70% of GDP and 
employing about 67% of the workforce. We commend Jamaica for the reforms carried out in this 
sector, with the adoption of new legislation on financial services during the review period: the 
Banki ng Services Act was adopted in 2015, and the Bank of Jamaica Act was amended in the same 
year. The Insurance Act was amended in 2016 to keep pace with trends in the local and 
international insurance markets. The Securities Act was amended in 2014, and in 2 016 the 
Government implemented a strategy to tighten the prudential standards for the securities sector.  
4.124.   Lastly, we submitted some questions to Jamaica and appreciate its replies. It only remains 
for us once again to commend and congratulate the Jamaican a uthorities for their efforts and to 
wish them success in continuing on the development path.  
CHILE  
4.125.   We welcome all the members of the Permanent Mission of Jamaica to the WTO and 
especially Ambassador Wayne McCook, with whom we are working closely, and hope to make 
further joint contributions to strengthening the multilateral trading system. We endorse the 
Colombian delegation's statement regarding Ambassador McCook's own contribution to the work of 
this Organization and others within the UN system in Geneva.  
4.126.   We too express solidarity with the Government and people of Jamaica in the aftermath of 
the hurricane that recently battered the region. We believe that evidence of climate change and its 
adverse impact on human life can no longer be denied.  WT/TPR/M/359  • Jamaica  
 
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  4.127.   My colleague from Costa Rica made a reference to Jamaica's national hero Marcus Garvey 
and, whilst I fully agree, I would also like to mention Bob Marley on account of his contribution to 
the world's musical culture and the link to multilateralism established when he w as awarded the 
United Nations' Peace Medal.  
4.128.   Chile is particularly interested in this fourth trade policy review of Jamaica and 
congratulates it for the work accomplished since the preceding review.  
4.129.   Diplomatic relations between Chile and Jamaica were establ ished on 10  December  1963 
and have become closer since the Embassy of Chile opened in Kingston on 3  October  1990.  
4.130.   At the bilateral level, Chile and Jamaica have been stepping up their political dialogue, 
underpinned by numerous areas of agreement on intern ational matters. This has led to exchanges 
of official visits in recent years.  
4.131.   In this connection, I would like to highlight the visit to Santiago of Jamaica's Prime 
Minister, Andrew Holness, this past 30  August, which enabled us to strengthen the politica l, 
economic and cultural dialogue between the two countries.  
4.132.   This visit provided an opportunity for both countries to explore new prospects for bilateral 
cooperation and, for Chile, to seek further rapprochement with CARICOM and the English -speaking 
Caribb ean. 
4.133.   We are pleased to have concluded important cooperation agreements in various fields in 
the course of the visit.  
4.134.   Among these agreements, I would highlight the signing of a Memorandum of 
Understanding between the trade agencies of Chile's Ministry of Fo reign Affairs (PROCHILE) and 
Jamaica's Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Foreign Trade (JAMPRO) to exchange export promotion 
experiences and boost bilateral and regional trade.  
4.135.   We have also signed an agreement on sports aimed at promoting physical activity a mong 
young people from the two countries.  
4.136.   These developments come in addition to those achieved under the permanent cooperation 
agenda between Chile, Jamaica and the Caribbean region as a whole. In this connection, it would 
be remiss of me not to mention t he trade negotiations training programme for government officials 
of the CARICOM countries, a commitment undertaken by the President of the Republic of Chile.  
4.137.   Chile's trade relations with Jamaica are conducted according to the WTO rules.  
4.138.   At present we do n ot have any agreement governing our trade relationship.  
4.139.   Trade with Jamaica is nonetheless highly important to Chile, especially within the 
Caribbean region. Bilateral trade between Chile and Jamaica increased at an average rate of 4.1% 
per year during 2011 -2016, and exports to Jamaica over the same period rose by 5.6%, 
accounting for 28.2% of Chile's total exports to CARICOM.  
4.140.   Chile's main exports to Jamaica are food products and include, for example, fish, food 
preparations for infant use, and tomato juice.  
4.141.   Chile's main imports from Jamaica are rum, tyres and lifting devices. We are convinced 
that greater cooperation between our two countries will make it possible to increase Jamaica's 
exports to Chile.  
4.142.   As regards air transport, an ambitious open skies agree ment, signed between Chile and 
Jamaica in 1994 and subsequently expanded, enhances our commercial aviation relations by 
incorporating new traffic rights up to the seventh freedom of the air for cargo flights.  WT/TPR/M/359  • Jamaica  
 
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  4.143.   Chile submitted ten questions for this review, mainly concerning intellectual property, 
sanitary and phytosanitary regulations, and the implementation of the new institutional framework 
for Jamaica's trade policy.  
4.144.   We greatly appreciate the replies received.  
4.145.   In this connection, I would like to lay parti cular emphasis on the importance that Chile 
attaches to a prompt loosening of sanitary restrictions to allow the entry of poultry meat and pork 
into the CARICOM market, for which negotiations began in 2009 and have not yet reached a 
satisfactory conclusion . The Chilean authorities are currently awaiting the findings of the inspection 
report drawn up by a group of CARICOM experts following a visit to the production plants in 
March  2016. Chile requests Jamaica's good offices in this regard and hopes that this  may lead to 
market access for these products in the near future.  
4.146.   Of particular interest among the recent reforms carried out by Jamaica is the development 
strategy conducted in the last few years, which saw the implementation and the planning of major 
structural reforms, especially those set out in the "Vision 2030" Plan and the Economic Reform 
Programme (ERP), both of which are aimed at shaping a long -term outlook for the country.  
4.147.   Global economic problems notwithstanding, we can see that Jamaica's GDP gre w by an 
average of nearly 1.5% in 2016 and is expected to rise by 2% to 3% in the coming years. We 
hope that the measures adopted will lead to higher figures for the benefit of the Jamaican 
population.  
4.148.   As I mentioned earlier, there is significant common gr ound between Jamaica and Chile, so 
we hope that our bilateral political and trade relations will continue to grow.  
4.149.   We are confident that the dialogue between our two countries will enable us to continue 
making a joint contribution to strengthening the mult ilateral trading system, with clear rules 
lending predictability and certainty to global trade in goods and services. Lastly, we wish Jamaica a 
successful fourth trade policy review.  
JAPAN  
4.150.   It is a pleasure for Japan to take part in the 4th TPR for Jamaica.  Needless to say, Japan 
and Jamaica have been important partners for years, both economically and politically. Japan will 
continue to make every effort to maintain and further develop the strong ties between us.  
4.151.   According to the Secretariat 's report, Jamai ca's GDP growth rate has remained at 0.7% 
since 2011, partly due to negative external shocks, such as the drought that led to a decline in 
agriculture in 2013 -2015, and the falling aluminium prices that have depressed exports, as well as 
certain internal f actors. However, we are glad to see that Jamaica has made major strides in 
restoring macroeconomic stability over the last few years, pursuing prudent fiscal policy, reducing 
public debt, and undertaking significant changes to its tax policy. In addition t o that, the financial 
system has become more resilient to shocks, inflation is at a historic low, the current account 
deficit has more than halved, net international reserves have doubled, and business confidence is 
high. So, Japan expects Jamaica to conti nue accelerating its economic reforms.  
4.152.   Let me make some comments on Jamaica 's trade arrangements and agreements. Japan 
appreciates the active role played by Jamaica in WTO negotiations. Jamaica is a proponent of the 
Work Programmes on Small Economies and i s contributing to the discussions as a member of 
groups such as ACP, G90 and G33.  
4.153.   In addition, Jamaica ratified and submitted its Category A notification in February 2015. 
Moreover, Jamaica has actively introduced various methods for trade facilitation. Fo r example, in 
addition to submitting a new Customs Act to Parliament in 2017, Jamaica encourages voluntary 
compliance with customs laws and procedures, effectively supports the implementation of 
ASYCUDA World, and has been improving its use of risk managem ent systems.  WT/TPR/M/359  • Jamaica  
 
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  4.154.   Jamaica 's efforts in this regard have contributed to facilitating world trade, and Japan 
expects Jamaica to maintain this momentum by going on to establish a fully -fledged system of 
trade promotion.  
4.155.   However, Jamaica has not made any notificati ons in the areas of customs valuation and 
GATS since 2011, so Japan hopes that Jamaica will notify the WTO in these areas and improve 
transparency going forward.  
4.156.   With regard to the RTA, the report by the Secretariat notes that Jamaica, as a member of 
the C aribbean Community and Common Market, has signed trade agreements with five Latin 
American countries, as well as the Economic Partnership Agreement (EPA) with the European 
Union. Japan hopes that these RTAs will contribute to trade liberalization under the  multilateral 
trading system.  
4.157.   Now, let me make some brief comments on investment policy. Japan commends Jamaica 
for their efforts to improve the investment environment.  
4.158.   In order to maintain economic growth, attracting foreign investments is indispensable a nd 
it is also important to conclude bilateral investment treaties (BITs), which provide a legal 
infrastructure for foreign investment. Japan expects Jamaica to continue accelerating its 
negotiation of BITs.  
4.159.   In conclusion, I would like to express our strong  wish to deepen cooperation between 
Jamaica and Japan.  
CHINA  
4.160.   Jamaica has maintained economic stability in the last 6 years, despite of external shocks 
from the global financial crisis and decrease in commodity prices. This is largely contributed by its 
prudent fiscal policy and reform efforts in delivering better growth and job outcomes. We 
commend the Jamaican Government for the steps that it had taken to liberalize its trade and 
investment regime, including measures such as maintaining a relatively low ta riff of 7.9% on non -
agriculture goods, simplifying the tax system and establishing Special Economic Zones.  
4.161.   China and Jamaica enjoy good economic relations during the period under review. Our 
bilateral trade in goods was US$520 million in 2016, and the expo rt from Jamaica to China was 
increasing steadily during the review period. Jamaica has maintained one of the most liberalized 
investment regimes in the Caribbean region. The robust investment flow from China to Jamaica is 
a testament of our confidence in J amaica 's business environment. By the end of 2016, China 's 
aggregated FDI in Jamaica has reached US$360 million, d istributed in areas such as agriculture, 
telecommunications and infrastructural d evelopment, and making Jamaica one of the most popular 
destin ations in Caribbean  region for Chinese investors.  
4.162.   Jamaica has been a staunch supporter of the multilateral trading system, while also 
seeking regional integration and bilateral cooperation in the framework of the CARICOM. As the 
longest -standing Caribbean Member of the WTO, Jamaica has played an active role at the WTO 
negotiating tables. Particularly under the leadership of Ambassador Mccook, the Jamaica 
delegation has contributed significantly to the ongoing negotiations, and strongly advocated the 
interes t of not only Jamaica, and also the bor der developing members in this O rganization.  
4.163.   China has raised some questions to Jamaica with respect to investment regime and import 
measures. We appreciated the information Jamaica provided before and during the cour se of this 
review, which we will study carefully.  
4.164.   To conclude, I wish the fourth TPR of Jamaica a complete success.  
TRINIDAD  AND  TOBAGO  
4.165.   My delegation takes this opportunity to recognize Ambassador McCook 's invaluable 
contribution to the work of the WTO in  his role as Permanent Representative. I wish to make 
mention of his Chairmanship of the Negotiating Group on Rules and his competent leadership as WT/TPR/M/359  • Jamaica  
 
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  we progress towards the Eleventh Ministerial Conference (MC11) in Buenos Aires, Argentina. It 
would be remis s of me if I did not highlight the beneficial contributions made by our colleagues 
from Jamaica to the work of the WTO. Notably, Jamaica on behalf of the Caribbean Community, 
has provided regular updates to the WTO membership on recent developments in conn ection with 
the issue of de -risking and the loss of correspondent banking relationships.  
4.166.   The delegation of Trinidad and Tobago considers it a signal privilege to participate in this 
review of the trade policies and practices of its fellow Caribbean Communi ty (CARICOM) Member 
State and our involvement today is a reflection of the warm and fraternal relations which exist 
between our nations and within CARICOM.  
4.167.   Trinidad and Tobago considers it a source of inspiration that during the period under 
review Jamaic a has experienced improvement in its macroeconomic environment and a reduction 
in the level of its public debt. The strides made in restoring macroeconomic stability are in no 
small measure due to the country 's fiscal discipline. The Government of Jamaica 's commitment to 
maintaining fiscal prudence has been an important factor in achieving continued success under its 
economic reform programme.  
4.168.   Economic reforms in Jamaica have led to the strengthening of the financial system and 
positive developments in the  country 's inflation circumstance. Trinidad and Tobago applauds the 
Government of Jamaica for its responsible policies and initiatives that have resulted in these 
positive developments.  
4.169.   Jamaica is to be commended for the establishment of the Economic Growt h Council (EGC) 
in 2016. My delegation has taken note that the Council aims for Jamaica to achieve five percent 
growth in Gross Domestic Product (GDP) within four years. The inexorable sustained economic 
growth will undoubtedly contribute to the achievemen t of the country 's objectives.  
4.170.   Trinidad and Tobago and Jamaica enjoy a longstanding, multifaceted commercial 
relationship conditioned by the CARICOM Single Market. Jamaica is the largest CARICOM market 
for Trinidad and Tobago 's exports and was consistently  ranked as a top ten export market for 
Trinidad and Tobago over the period 2010 to 2016. In 2010, Jamaica was ranked a s Trinidad and 
Tobago 's second  largest export partner.  
4.171.   Trinidad and Tobago and Jamaica have sought to enhance our bilateral cooperation in  
areas of trade, security, consular affairs, multilateral issues, transportation, energy, tourism and 
regional affairs via the confirmation and adoption of an Action Plan. Through this instrument both 
Governments have reaffirmed their commitment to a partn ership based on shared mutual interests 
and open channels of communication.  
4.172.   Against this background of cooperation, my delegation acclaims Jamaica 's commitment to 
the regional integration agenda and looks forward to working closely with that country in 
advancing the integration process of the Community and in promoting the universal benefits 
obtainable through the multilateral trading system facilitated by the WTO.  
4.173.   My delegation has submitted a number of questions and we thank Jamaica in advance for 
its wr itten responses.  
4.174.   Chair, through you, Trinidad and Tobago wishes our CARICOM sister Jamaica, a successful 
Trade Policy Review.  
BARBADOS  
4.175.   Thank you Mister Ch airman for giving me the floor.  I thank you also for your expression of 
solidarity with the Caribbean at this tim e of extraordinary difficulty. What has happened in the 
region  provides uncomfortable but incontestable evidence of our structural  and physical 
vulnerabilities. It places beyond doubt the need for a sympathetic and preferential approach of the 
international community to the quest of small island developing states for sustainable 
development.  WT/TPR/M/359  • Jamaica  
 
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  4.176.   The context in which we are u ndertaking this Review is one that is pregnant with 
uncertainty, due largely to a reduced affection by some major economies for trade liberalization: 
the rise in anti -globalisation rhetoric, and a retreat from multilateralism. This context of 
uncertainty is one which undergirds our inability to reach consensus that would allow us to move 
the trade agenda forward and also threatens to paralyze irreparably our critical negotiating 
functions. We strongly believe that unless that context is altered, we cannot see how we can be 
stringent  in our criticism of other countries that also decide switch their liberalization button to a 
pause op tion. 
4.177.   It is against backdrop of uncertainty also that Barbados takes hastens to commend the 
Government of Jamaica on its economic performance achievements since its last trade policy 
review and its continued commitment to the multilateral trading system. B ased on its performance 
during the period under review, Jamaica can boast of having made substantial progress in 
restoring macroeconomic stability, reducing public debt, repositioning its financial system to be 
more resilient to shocks and cutting its curr ent account deficit by half. We note, however, that 
despite these important accomplishments, economic growth remains marginal, the country 
continues to be plagued by persistent trade deficits and one -fifth of the population still live below 
the poverty lin e. 
4.178.   Jamaica, a small, open economy is systematically challenged by a narrow production base, 
a high concentration in export markets and vulnerability external shocks. We note that the fall in 
market prices for its main commodity exports like alumina and the  impact of drought and natural 
disasters have accounted for reductions in agriculture production and export earnings. We believe 
that in the context of uncertainty that it is absolutely necessary for countries, particularly small 
ones, to plan strategicall y for their future. We therefore commend Jamaica for its foresight in the 
development and implementation of its national Development Plan – Vision 2030, a twenty -one 
year plan and its current commitment towards developing a new Foreign Trade Policy, togeth er 
with the second National Export Strategy which will allow for the alignment of its trade policy and 
strategy with the country 's Growth Agenda. We look forward to hearing about their successes as 
they roll out an implementation of these strategic framewo rk and we wish them well in their 
journey to develop country status by 2030.  
4.179.   We note that since its last review, the Government of Jamaica has undertaken a number of 
legislative and regulatory reforms which are aimed at increasing foreign direct investment  inflows, 
improving business climate and bringing the country closer in line with its WTO obligations. These 
have contributed to improvements in the country 's rankings in the World Bank 's report on doing 
business, where Jamaica 's ranking improved from 81st (out of 183 economies) in 2011 to 67th 
(out of 190 economies) in 2017. We applaud the Government of Jamaica on its improved status in 
the various global indices.  
4.180.   We wish to register our fullest appreciation and empathy with regard to the worrying 
impact t hat the withdrawal of correspondent banking services has had on Jamaica. Small 
jurisdictions including a number of those in the Caribbean, which because of their size, generally 
have low volumes of transactions are among those which have been negatively im pacted by 
decisions to withdraw correspondent banking relationships or other services from these countries. 
This can have far -reaching consequences for trade, particularly in the financial services sector. We, 
therefore, applaud the measures Jamaica has ta ken to limit the impact of the withdrawal of these 
correspondent banks.  
4.181.   Barbados, like Jamaica, remains actively engaged in the multilateral negotiating process in 
the WTO. This engagement , and Jamaica will certainly agree , is kept alive by the expectation  of 
important future development gains.  
4.182.   Mister Chairman, you have no doub t heard of the saying that " a prophet is wi thout honour 
in his own country"  - not so in the case of Ambassador McCook. CARICOM Missions in Geneva hold 
Ambassad or McCook in very high r egard. He is an indispensable asset in our efforts to advance the 
regional agenda in Geneva.  
4.183.   In closing, Barbados reiterates its congratulations to Jamaica and wishes the Jamaican 
delegation a successful conclusion to its 4th Trade Policy Review.  WT/TPR/M/359  • Jamaica  
 
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  REPUBLIC  OF MOLDOVA  
4.184.   The Republic of Moldova appreciates Jamaica 's constructive role in the WTO and its active 
engagement in numerous initiatives, such as the Work Programme on Small Economies, 
supporting the view that the needs and priorities of small economies sho uld be addressed fully in 
all areas of the WTO.  
4.185.   We commend the Jamaican Government for ratifying the Trade Facilitation Agreement in 
January 2016.  
4.186.   Trade is an important part for Jamaica 's development, as defined in its "Vision 2030 ". This 
National Developm ent Plan, implemented through a series of  three -yearly medium -term 
socio-economic policy frameworks, presents a strategic roadmap for Jamaica to achieve developed 
country status by 2030. In these documents and strategies, trade is an important factor to 
overcome development challenges from two perspectives: developing the capacity to trade by 
improving competitiveness in export markets; and ensuring that the wider society obtains 
development benefits from trade through increased revenues and employment.  
4.187.   The period from the last trade policy review of Jamaica has been characterized by the 
restoration of the macroeconomic stability through a prudent fiscal policy, public debt reduction 
and significant changes to tax policy. We commend the Jamaican government f or their efforts in 
reducing the current account deficit from 13.6% of GDP to in 2011 -2012 to 3. 2% in 2016 -2017.  
4.188.   We note with appreciation that Jamaica has recently adopted a new SEZ act in an attempt 
to meet its obligations under the WTO Agreement on Subs idies and Countervailing Measures. The 
new SEZ regime aims to attract large and medium -sized corporations that are eager to benefit 
from trade flows that pass through the Caribbean region as part of global value chains, as well as 
to realize Jamaica 's vision of being a global logistics hub . 
4.189.   Furthermore, compliance with the WTO rules will improve the business climate. Together 
with the MSME and Entrepreneurship Policy launched in 2013, it will identify and implement 
strategies that increase the capacity of M SMEs through greater access to business development 
support; increase access to MSME -specific financing; improve the business environment; and 
foster innovation and standards. The World Bank Doing Business indicators reflected progress that 
has been made, although several areas remain weak. In 2017, Jamaica was ranked 67th in the 
World Bank 's Doing Business Report for ease of doing business, among 190 countries.  
4.190.   We commend the Jamaican G overnment on signing the Public Procurement Act. It will 
improve effici ency, transparency and equity by aligning procurement methods with international 
best practices. We encourage Jamaica to consider accession to the Government Procurement 
Agreement of the WTO in order to ensure open, fair and transparent conditions of compe tition in 
the government procurement markets.  
4.191.   On the intellectual property rights protection, Jamaica has amended its Copyright Act and 
Trade Marks Act in order to fulfil its obligations under the relevant WIPO treaties. We urge Jamaica 
to accept the Proto col Amending the TRIPS Agreement.  
4.192.   The Republic of Moldova stands ready to cooperate with Jamaica in the WTO bodies, in 
order to strengthen the exchange of best practices on the development of our economies, 
sustainable growth, improving competitiveness and  business climate.  
4.193.   Trade relations between the Republic of Moldova and Jamaica are currently modest, mainly 
due to the large geographical distance, but have been constantly increasing. Following the 
signature of the CARICOM -EU Economic Partnership Agreemen t, the Republic of Moldova, close EU 
neighbour, stands ready to further engage with Jamaican partners to strengthen and diversify our 
trade and economic relations, particularly in such important areas as agriculture, wine products, 
textiles and light indus try. 
4.194.   Trade balance between Moldova and Jamaica is modest and is positive for Jamaica. In 
2016 Moldova has imported from Jamaica goods valued at US$214 thousand, an increase of 60% WT/TPR/M/359  • Jamaica  
 
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  from 2015. The vast majority of imported goods are alcoholic beverages and, of course, Jamaica 
Rum. On our end, we hope to see Moldovan wines on the Jamaica market.  
4.195.   We are interested to launch bilateral negotiations with a view to sign a Bilateral Agreement 
on encouragement and promotion of trade and economic relations between Mol dova and Jamaica.  
4.196.   The Republic of Moldova is confident that the 4th exercise of the trade policy review will 
help Jamaica assess the impact of its trade and economic policies on sustainable and robust trade 
growth to the benefit of Jamaica itself, as well as of the world economy.  
4.197.   We look forward to continue further strengthening our bilateral relations with Jamaica and 
we wish Jamaica the utmost success during this trade policy review cycle.  
INDONESIA  
4.198.   Amidst the tough time the Government and people of Jamai ca is facing i n the aftermath of 
hurricane Ir ma, the presence of the Jamaican Minister for Foreign Affa irs and Foreign Trade in this 
fourth Trade Policy Review truly demonstrates Jamaica 's high commitment to transparency, and 
also Jamaica 's full support to  the WTO multilateral trading system.  
4.199.   Indonesia applauds Jamaica for its successful endeavour in restoring macroeconomic 
stability, in pursuing prudent fiscal policy, in reducing public debt, and in undertaking significant 
changes to its tax policy. Notabl e results to these quests by Jamaica are: the financial system has 
become more resilient to shocks; inflation is at historic lows; current account deficit has more than 
halved; net international reserves have doubled; and business confidence is high.  
4.200.   I have never been to Jamaica, but apart from capital Kingston, there remains in my bucket 
list: (i) the coral reefs of Montego Bay; (ii) the long sandy beach of Negril; (iii) the mountain 
waterfall of Ocho Rios; and, of course, (iv) the coffee farms of the Blue  Mountain.  
4.201.   So, more and more Indonesians, nowadays, associate Jamaica not only with the Reggae 
music. Nor with the legendary 1988 Calgary Winter Olympics Jamaican bobsled team. Nor with the 
first time the Jamaican national soccer team won a match at the Wo rld Cup Finals of soccer in 
France in 1998. Nor with the number of gold medals won by sprinters from Jamaica – whether 
running for Jamaica or for other nations.  
4.202.   The ordinary Indonesians are, nowadays, associating the island nation of Jamaica with its 
great  economic potential. And rightly so, since Jamaica has been Indonesia 's second largest 
trading partner amongst the 15 CARICOM economies. And Jamaica is the second largest market – 
amongst CARICOM economies – for Indonesian exports.  
4.203.   The total trade between Indonesia and Jamaica has been experiencing an average yearly 
growth of 15.2% from 2012 -2016, with a total trade value at US$20.2 million in 2016. In term of 
Indonesian exports to Jamaica, there accrue an average yearly growth of 17.6% from 2012 -2016, 
with a total export value at US$19.7 million in 2016. So, exports consist  of 97.5% of Indonesian 
trade to Jamaica.  
4.204.   Indonesia highly values  this fruitful bilateral trading relationship, but wishes to see that 
Jamaica also capitalize on it, by engaging in more e xport activities to the Indonesian part of the 
world. Perhaps, this could be a remedy to Jamaica 's geographically highly concentrated export 
destinations – namely, in the markets of the United States, the European Union, and Canada. The 
high concentration of export destinations and Jamaica 's undiversified export products have 
contributed to Jamaica 's persistent trade deficits. Hence, it is important that Jamaica diversifies its 
trading partners in order to increase the possibility to diversify its export pr oducts.  
4.205.   On product diversification, Indonesia wishes to highlight that – as stated in the Secretariat 
report – there are 32 tariff lines in which MFN applied tariff rates exceeded their bound levels. 
Amongst them are tariff lines for wood products and pape r products. As wood and paper products 
are amongst the largest components to Indonesian exports into Jamaica, we encourage Jamaica to 
re-visit these measures since they would limit Indonesia 's opportunity to diversify export products 
into Jamaica.  WT/TPR/M/359  • Jamaica  
 
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  4.206.   However,  Indonesia commends Jamaica for applying only few non -tariff barriers.  
4.207.   Together with other developing countries including Indonesia, Jamaica remains as a crucial 
player in WTO negotiation – especially in concluding the DDA negotiations. Indonesia looks for ward 
to work closely with Ambassador Wayne McCook and his Geneva -based delegation to deliver a 
successful MC11 this upcoming December in Buenos Aires.  
4.208.   In the spirit of MC11, I would like to end in a high note. All of us retire from this 
negotiation, just l ike Mr. Husain Bolt ran his last 100, 200 and 4x100 metres a month ago in 
London. But, one thing all of us can learn from him is that what matters to people is beyond what 
he did during his career, but of what he did to revolutionize the playing field in t he world of 
athletics.  
4.209.   In this review process, special thanks go to Ambassador Hogni S. Kristjansson of Iceland 
for your insightful analysis and substantiated comments throughout this review process.  
4.210.   Finally, we would like to express our appreciation to t he delegation of Jamaica for their 
hard work in this review process. Indonesia wishes Jamaica a successful Trade Policy Review.  
SRI LANKA  
4.211.   At the outset we take opportunity to convey our sympathies to the victims and people of 
Jamaica who were affected due to devastating hurricane that caused severe damages to the 
region.  
4.212.   During the review period, Jamaica has made a notable progress in reinstating its 
macroeconomic stability. It is interested to note that the Jamaica 's financial system has become 
more resist ant to shocks while keeping inflation at historically low level and enhancing the 
business confidence. We believe that sound and consistent economic policies adopted by Jamaican 
government and proper implementation strategies have contributed towards the p ositive 
developments in the economy. We wish Jamaica achieving developed country status by 2030 as 
planne d in the "National Development Plan – Vision 2030 and the Growth Agenda " launched by the 
country setting the development goals. We also note with great  interest the new Foreign Trade 
Policy being drafted together with a new National Export Strategy, allowing the alignment of trade 
policy and strategy with this Growth Agenda.  
4.213.   Reaffirming Jamaica 's commitment to the multilateral trading system, it became a  member 
of the WTO Trade Facilitation Agreement in January 2016. It is noteworthy the achievements so 
far being made with regard to implementation of the TFA, in particular, establishment of a Trade 
Facilitation Taskforce with a view to develop trade facil itation implementation road map and 
project plan to enhance the potential contribution of trade to economic growth. It is well 
recognized that Jamaica fulfils  its transparency obligations to the WTO through its notifications.  
4.214.   Let me briefly reflect on the bilateral trade and other economic relations between two 
countries. Although the two -way trade between two countries does not demonstrate a persistent 
pattern, Sri Lanka continue s to enjoy trade surplus with Jamaica given the negligible level of 
imports fr om Jamaica to Sri Lanka. Out of Sri Lanka 's exports to Jamaica, nearly three -fourth 
represented by Coconut Milk Powder, followed by yellowfin tunas, crepe rubber and pneumatic 
tyres.  
4.215.   It is noteworthy relations between our two countries in sports. Both coun tries have 
produced world class cricketers.  
4.216.   In concluding, my delegation appreciates Jamaica 's valued contribution to the multilateral 
trading system and its active engagement i n the negotiations in the WTO. We appreciated the 
dynamic role played by Ambas sador McCook in proactively engaging in ongoing activities of WTO, 
in particular as the Chair of the Rules Negotiations Committee, aiming to establish widely 
acceptable disciplines for fisheries subsidies.  
4.217.   We sincerely wish the delegation of Jamaica a suc cessful deliberation at its 4th Trade Policy 
Review.  WT/TPR/M/359  • Jamaica  
 
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  PAKISTAN  
4.218.   Pakistan appreciates that during the review period 2011 -17, Jamaica has made major 
strides in restoring macroeconomic stability, pursuing prudent fiscal policy, reducing public debt 
and undertak ing significant changes to its tax policy. Inflation is comparatively low, the current 
account deficit has more than halved, net international reserves have doubled. Jamaica 's current 
account deficit, as a percentage of GDP, decreased from 13.6% in FY2011/ 12 to 3.2% in 
FY2016/17, largely due to reduced import costs, and sustained tourism and remittances earnings. 
Tariffs and other duties and charges remain Jamaica 's main trade policy instrument. A substantial 
share of the Government 's central revenue is gen erated from taxes and charges on imports. 
International trade taxes as a percentage of total tax revenues rose from about 34% in FY2012/13 
to some 40% in FY2016/17.  
4.219.   It is heartening for Pakistan to note that Jamaica is taking measures to attract larger FD I 
inflows and improve the business climate. Incentives, which are accessible to both local and 
foreign firms, were simplified and streamlined. Pakistan commends Jamaica on amending its 
Copyright Act which extends the term of copyright protection from 50 to  95 years for original 
literary, dramatic, musical and artistic works, and to fulfil Jamaica 's obligations under the WIPO 
Copyright Treaty and the WIPO Performances and Phonograms Treaty. Jamaica also amended its 
Trade Marks Act to make it more convenient for parties using the system. However, Jamaica is yet 
to accept the Protocol Amending the TRIPS Agreement.  
4.220.   Even though Jamaica 's merchandise exports are dominated by mining and quarrying 
products plus alumina, it is particularly pleasing for Pakistan to le arn that Services are the main 
contributors to the economy, accounting for some 70% of GDP and employing about 67% of the 
workforce. With respect to financial services, new legislation was passed during the review period: 
The Banking Services Act was adopt ed in 2015, and the Bank of Jamaica Act was amended in the 
same year. As a result, the financial sector has remained relatively stable during the period.  
4.221.   We have been particularly impressed by the fact that overall Internet penetration rate 
jumped from 4. 4% in 2011 to 65% in 2016; during the same period, penetration rates for mobile 
phone services went up from 108.6% to 120%, while that for fixed line subscribers increased from 
9.9% to 11.4%.  
4.222.   Pakistan has taken note that tourism sector continues to grow, and it contributes over 9% 
to GDP directly – and about 30% when secondary effects are included. It is also a major foreign 
exchange earner, accounting for over half of total exports. Pakistan feels that this sector can 
contribute even more if the opportuni ties are exploited further. Reforms in the transport sector 
which are aimed to help reduce transport costs, improve connectivity and help boost the tourism 
industry are a step in the right direction.  
4.223.   At the WTO here in Geneva, we are highly appreciative o f the hard work and eff orts of 
Jamaican representative H.E. Mr. Wayne McCook in assisting the Members to strengthen the 
multilateral system and in his work on Negotiating Group on Rules.  
4.224.   In the end, Pakistan wishes Jamaica a very successful and fruitful TP R. 
UGANDA  
4.225.   Let me extend my delegation 's condolences and sympathies to the victims of the 
devastating hurricane Irma in Jamaica.  
4.226.   From what has transpired during the period under review, we can see that with the correct 
policies like Vision 2030, and putting  good institutions in place, Jamaica has been able to make 
some very steady progress. The progress is in the areas of services, agricultural and mineral 
productions, which have been made possible because of Jamaica 's active involvement in regional 
integrat ion with its neighbours, and multilateral Trading Systems like the WTO.  
4.227.   It is worthy to note with satisfaction the economic growth leadership of Jamaica amongst 
the Caribbean Islands nations.  WT/TPR/M/359  • Jamaica  
 
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  4.228.   To conclude, I want to commend and thank the Jamaican Government  for sending a very 
capable and active Ambassador to the WTO in the person of Ambassador Wayne McCook. 
Ambassador McCook has been an effective participant and contributor in the trade negotiations at 
the WTO.  
4.229.   I wish Jamaica a successful conclusion of its T rade Policy Review.  
INDIA  
4.230.   At the outset, let me join other delegations in expressing our deepest sympathy and 
condolences for the loss of lives and property in the Caribbean due to the recent hurricane.  
4.231.   We note from the Secretariat 's report that during the  period of review there has been rapid 
progress and improvement in economic performance of Jamaica. Jamaica has also made major 
strides during the period to restore macro -economic stability, pursue a prudent fiscal policy, 
reduce public debt and undertake significant tax policy reforms.  Investments in areas of 
infrastructure, business process, outsourcing tourism and agro processing have also grown.  
4.232.   We understand the major challenges that Jamaica faces including addressing poverty, 
improving competitivenes s in exports, diversification of the economy and the vulnerability to 
negative external shocks such as the recent drought, natural calamities and slump in commodity 
prices that have depressed exports, challenges which developing countries like India also f ace.  
4.233.   Jamaica and India share warm, cordial and friendly relations together with a pas sion for 
cricket and music. There is a vibrant diaspora of over 70,000 Indians in Jamaica who trace their 
origins to ancestors who move d from India two centuries ago.  They have been actively 
contributing to the socio -economic development of Jamaica. Trade between both countries though 
modest  is growing at a healthy pace. There is tremendous potential to strengthen our bilateral 
trade and economic ties in areas such as auto mobiles, textiles, industrial machinery, 
pharmaceutical products and gems and jewellery.  
4.234.   India also has an active development partner ship cooperation with Jamaica. An Indian IT 
Centre and has been set up under the ICT Capacity Development Project in Jamai ca and the 
aptitude displayed by the youth and skills being developed have a potential of making Jamaica a 
major provider of ICT services and the ICT sector in Jamaica becoming an important job creator. 
India has also offered its expertise in providing hum anitarian assistance on a number of occasions 
when hurricanes have struck Jam aica. For capacity building in technical spheres, India and 
Jamaica have a robust cooperation under India 's Technical Economic Cooperation (ITEC) 
programme.  
4.235.   To conclude, we look forward to working closely with Jamaica for further expanding our 
trade and investment and cooperation for mutual benefit.  I also take this opportunity to place on 
record our deep appreciation for the contribution and work of Ambassador Wayne McCook to his  
country and to the WTO negotiations as the Chair of Negotiating Group on R ules. We wish the 
delegation of Jamaica a productive and successful TPR.  
EL SALVADOR  
4.236.   As regards the substance of this review, both reports prompt us first of all to highlight the 
Jamaican Government's "Vision 2030" strategy, which was launched nine years ago and aims for 
Jamaica to achieve developed country status by 2030. We believe that setting high and ambitious 
targets is the first step on the right path for reaching great goals.  
4.237.   The "Vision 2030" strategy provides the broad framework for macroeconomic and social 
policy formulation, whose critical components are trade and investment, along with reforms to 
reduce public debt and efforts to enhance the business environment and the c ompetitiveness of 
firms. This has led Jamaica to improve 64% of "Vision 2030"'s performance indicators – a 
noteworthy achievement.  
4.238.   In terms of bilateral trade, Jamaica ranked 17th among our overall export destinations in 
2014-2016, plastic products account ing for one third of exports to the country, followed by paper WT/TPR/M/359  • Jamaica  
 
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  and paperboard products. Our main imports from Jamaica included rum, office machines, and fruit 
juices. We hope to continue strengthening our bilateral ties with Jamaica in order to increase ou r 
current level of trade, among other things.  
4.239.   At the multilateral level, we underscore Jamaica's commitment to the multilateral trading 
system and commend its Permanent Mission in Geneva for its work and contribution in fulfilling the 
mandates of this Orga nization.  
4.240.   I also take this opportunity to thank Ambassador Wayne McCook and his team for their 
active participation in the regular and special work of the WTO.  
4.241.   It now only remains for us to congratulate Jamaica and wish it every success in this 
review.  
GUATEMALA  
4.242.   Guatemala and Jamaica have maintained friendly relations over the years, as reflected by 
the close links forged in the Group of Small, Vulnerable Economies at the WTO. Despite the 
geographical distance between us, discussions within the Group have e nabled us to identify more 
clearly what are the major characteristics and challenges common to our two countries and thus to 
combine efforts in seeking joint solutions.  
4.243.   As regards this review, it is important to emphasize Jamaica's positive economic 
perfor mance since its previous trade policy review in 2011. As stated in the report, Jamaica has 
made major strides in restoring macroeconomic stability, pursuing prudent fiscal policy, reducing 
public debt and introducing significant changes to its tax policy. In their National Development 
Plan, the authorities have also set themselves the target of achieving developed country status for 
Jamaica by 2030. The aim is also to increase FDI inflows and promote in -depth export 
diversification, as reflected in the Nati onal Export Strategy (NES). We believe that all of these 
measures, together with the passing of new laws in areas such as government procurement, tax 
incentives and banking services will help strengthen the economy and boost trade and foreign 
investment.  
4.244.   Among the challenges highlighted in the Secretariat report, it is worth emphasizing the 
importance for Jamaica to continue looking into ways of strengthening its resilience to sudden 
changes in the global economy, enhancing its business climate and strength ening the tourism 
sector as the mainstay of its economy.  
4.245.   Guatemala acknowledges Jamaica's efforts over the period covered by this report and 
wishes the Jamaican delegation a successful conclusion to its country's trade policy review.  
GUYANA  
4.246.   We want to star t by calling attention to Jamaica 's status as a small island open economy,  
with all that implies in terms  of trade in commodities and services dependence and vulnerability, 
we feel that Jamaica 's resilience, performance and capacity is perhaps not well rep resented by its 
growth rate since 2011 although this is increasing in the most recent period. Despite the creativity 
and resourcefulness of its people, its government and its private sector, a combination of negative 
external shocks such as the 2008/9 glob al financial crisis and natural disasters such as hurricane 
Sandy in 2012 and more recent shocks such as hurricane Irma has undermined the progress of its 
economy. Yet, Jamaica has made significant strides in restoring macroeconomic stability over the 
last few years, mainly due to effective fiscal policy, undertaking tax reforms, strengthening of its 
financial system resulting in reducing Public debt, reducing inflation and doubling its net 
international reserves.  
4.247.   Guyana highly commends the reforms and act ivities undertaken by Jamaica to increase 
productivity and competitiveness to enhance the contribution of trade to economic growth. We 
point especially to the new draft foreign trade policy, the national Aid for Trade strategy, the 
second national export s trategy, the particular attention to the Agriculture sector through the 
integrated Agro -Park approach and the consolidation of agri culture commodity boards.  We also WT/TPR/M/359  • Jamaica  
 
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  commen d the national development plan  "vision 2030 "- which is a roadmap for Jamaica to achi eve 
its high human and economic development goals by the year 2030.  
4.248.   We recognize some continuing challenges faced by Jamaica. Unemployment particularly 
among youths, lack of fiscal space as a result a high level of indebtedness, protectionism in key 
market s, de-risking by financial institutions in major economies. In regard to these challenges, we 
support Jamaica 's call for continued Technical assistance and capacity building for its priority 
sectors as needed and also the call for some of these challenges and other development -related 
issues to receive attention in global economic development forums and at the upcoming 11th 
Ministerial Conference in Buenos Aires, Argentina.  
4.249.   We would like to congratulate our CARICOM sister country on its commitment to the WT O 
and the multilateral trading system. This has been demonstrated in its ratification of the Trade 
facilitation Agreement back in January of 2016 and its efforts to advance negotiations in the DDA 
by assuming the chairmanship of the Negotiating Group on Ru les. Enough cannot be said about 
Ambassador McCook 's contributions at the WTO representing Jamaica, assisting the Caribbean and 
the WTO in general. We highly commend Ambassador McCook 's outstanding work more recently in 
the negotiating group on rules and e specially as these efforts relate to disciplining fisheries 
subsidies which is so important to CARICOM countries.  
4.250.   Guyana wishes the Government of Jamaica the best success in advancing their reforms 
and programmes which we hope will contribute to the econom ic and social development of their 
people. Guyana looks forward to continuing the strong, collaborative and mutually beneficial 
partnership with Jamaica within the framework of CARICOM and especially in the context of the 
Caribbean Single Market and Econom y with the aim of fostering sustainable development in the 
wider Caribbean region. We wish Jamaica a very successful Trade policy review.  
DOMINICA  ON BEHALF  OF THE OECS  WTO  MEMBERS   
4.251.   The OECS considers it a privilege and pleasure to participate in this 4th Trade Policy Review 
of Jamaica at the WTO.  
4.252.   The membership of the OECS and Jamaica share a long history of solidarity, cooperation, 
trade and mutual respect with a common geograp hy, history, culture and people . We congratulate 
them on the preparation and wo rk that has led to this stage of the review.  
4.253.   As we noted at the last Trade Policy Review, Jamaica has a clear vision for its future. Its 
National Development Plan – Vision 2030 , Jamaica seeks developed country status  by 2030, a goal 
which every developing country would share. To ensure the realization of this goal, Jamaica has 
put in place various policies, strategies, initiatives with strong support in institutional and 
implementation frameworks.  
4.254.   In that regard, we note and commend Jamaica on its economic reform programme, a 
strategic plan of action aimed at  generating the sustained economic growth, a nd long -term 
development of the country. We note that it has resulted in improvements in a number of 
Jamaica 's economic fundamentals in the areas of debt reduc tion, tax reform, public -private sector 
partnership, public sector reform , and job creation.  
4.255.   The OECS also commends Jamaica on its ongoing initiatives to address  trade and 
trade -related capacity constraints, and improve on export production diversification  and 
international competitiveness. In that regard, we note the launch of the national aid for trade 
strategy in 2011, the implementation in 2015 of the national export strategy, the reforming of the 
trade facilitation regime and the continued implementati on of its obligations under bilateral 
regional trade agreements, as well as the WTO.  
4.256.   Recognizing the important role that investment plays in any economy, but particularly in a 
small island developing  State, Jama ica has placed high importance o n attracting investment, 
foreign direct investment. This is seen in its efforts to improve the business environment as well as 
the development and implementation of some strategic investment projects, including the global 
logistic hub initiative, the establishment of s pecial economic zones and information communication WT/TPR/M/359  • Jamaica  
 
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  technology business processing outsourcing. As well as also the business reform agenda with the 
establishment of the National Competitiveness Council.  
4.257.   We also note that there are plans to develop a Nation al Investment Policy by 2018. 
Jamaica and the OECS face similar challenges as small vulnerable economies, small island 
developing States and net food importing  developing countries. This includes a small domestic 
market, relative high cost of production an d trade, limited producti on capacity, narrow export base  
and high product competition on export market s among others.  
4.258.   The two parties endure  high import bills and both sustain trade deficits in the ir global 
merchandise trade. The small nature of the econom ies and the high vulnerability to external 
shocks exacerbated by the highly open trade regimes, high dependence on imports and the i mpact 
of climate change present  even greater hurdles in trying to address some of these challenges.  
4.259.   In that regard, we recog nize and very readily relate to the issue s listed in Section 4.3 on 
the impact of global economic d evelopments on Jamaica 's trade performance, including de-risking 
and Brexit. These are among the issues that the OECS are also grappling with and which both of 
us are working together on in the region.  
4.260.   With regards to the macroeconomic environment and performance, we note a very modest 
growth in the economy, but also the improvements made in the current account, the international 
reserves  and government  spend ing and inflation.  
4.261.   Jamaica 's commitment to the regional and multilateral trading system and to the 
implementation of its WTO obligations is commendable. It also remains committed to CARICOM 
and it is an important partner of the OECS. With a GDP of 14,262 million and a population of 
2.8 million, Jamaica is a very important trading partner for the OECS within CARICOM. Although 
the OECS member States sustain a trade deficit with Jamaica, it is a valuable export market for 
most of the OECS member States as wel l as an important source of imports.  
4.262.   At the WTO, we share the same interest s on special and different ial treatment and on the 
work programme  on small economies. Jamaica also plays a very important role in the WTO, 
including during the negotiation on trade facilitation, where Ambassador McCook played a critical 
role and now in the negotiating group on rules on fisheries subsidies.  
4.263.   To conclude, the OECS would like to congratulate Jamaica and to wish it a very successful 
Trade Policy Review.  
KENYA  
4.264.   Kenya and Ja maica have longstanding warm and cordial relations, which have deepened 
over the many years of diplomatic and economic relation.  
4.265.   We note that since the last TPR in 2011, Jamaica has undertaken reforms that have 
enabled restoration of macroeconomic stabilit y and prudent fiscal policy. Some of the reforms 
worth mentioning is the launch of a National Aid for Trade Strategy, the implementation of the 
National Export Strategy 2, the reforming of the trade facilitation regime, and the continued 
implementation of its international trade obligations.  
4.266.   We also commend Jamaica 's efforts for implementing reform programmes aimed at 
attracting Foreign Direct investment. The reforms which include simplification of the tax system, 
broadening the tax base, implementing an el ectronic platform for the payment of taxes, and 
establishing a 90 -day window for development approvals, will no doubt help in improving the 
business climate and competitiveness.  
4.267.   We note that Jamaica has an economy that is very open to international trade. As a 
founder Member of the WTO, Jamaica has made a tremendous progress to integrate fully into the 
multilateral trading system and to reap real benefits from international trade. We commend 
Jamaica for ratifying the WTO Trade Facilitation Agreement in Janu ary 2016. At the regional level, 
Jamaica is an active member of the Caribbean Community and Common Market whose objective is 
to deepen regional integration towards a single market and a single economy.  WT/TPR/M/359  • Jamaica  
 
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  4.268.   According to the Secretariat report, services continue s to play a very important role in the 
Jamaican economy being a significant earner of foreign exchange and accounts for 70% of GDP 
and employing about 67% of the workforce.  
4.269.   The agricultural sector has also been playing a very important role in the economic  
development. Agriculture represents about 7% of GDP and employs about 18% of the total 
workforce. However, we note that agriculture faces many challenges such an inadequate 
infrastructure and natural disasters.  
4.270.   On the bilateral front, the total trade betw een the two countries during 2016 amounted to 
US$1 million and trade balance is in favour of Jamaica. However, there is significant scope to 
improve our bilateral trade relation.  
4.271.   Finally, Kenya welcomes the efforts by Jamaica in enhancing its overall econo mic growth 
and development through multilateral, regional and bilateral initiatives.  
4.272.   We wish Jamaica a successful Trade Policy Review.  
NIGERIA  
4.273.   From the outset, let me start by extending our sympathy to the countries affected by 
hurricane Irma. Our thoughts  and prayers are with those affected.  
4.274.   Nigeria is pleased to note that during the period under review 2011 -17, Jamaica has made 
significant progress in restoring macroeconomic stability, through pursuing prudent fiscal policy, 
reducing public debt and under taking significant changes to its tax policy. These measures have 
made the financial system of Jamaica to become more resilient to shocks, reducing inflation which 
is at historic low, increasing the international reserves and has improved the business conf idence 
on the economy.  
4.275.   Further, Jamaica is taking measures to attract larger FDI inflows and improve the business 
climate, though the simplification of the tax system; broadening the tax base; implementing an 
electronic platform for the payment of taxes; a nd establishing a 90 -day window for development 
approvals. It has also issued or amended a large amount of legislation since 2011, including the 
Insolvency Act, the Fiscal Incentives Act, the Special Economic Zones (SEZ) Act, the Public 
Procurement Act, th e Bank Services Act, and the Electricity Act, among others. Nigeria believes 
that these measures would have positive impact on the livelihood of the people of Jamaica.  
4.276.   Being an original Member of the WTO, Jamaica has continued to play active role in the 
WTO negotiations. The delegation of Jamaica has maintained the call that special and differential 
treatment must be a fundamental pillar of WTO work and must be appropriately reflected in the 
outcomes of the WTO negotiations. Jamaica is a proponent of the Wo rk Programmes on Small 
Economies, supporting the position that the needs and priorities of such economies must be 
addressed fully and in all areas of the WTO. Jamaica has never been a respondent or complainant 
in a WTO dispute, however, it was a third part y to the dispute settlement system of the WTO, 
thereby, improving its capacity in the use of the dispute settlement system. On transparency, 
Nigeria would like to thank Jamaica for the notifications it has submitted to the WTO, which would 
help in the func tioning of the MTS.  
4.277.   At bilateral level, Nigeria has had long and historic relations with Jamaica and the relations 
have remained cordial. Our two countries shared many similar values and traditions. Jamaica and 
Niger ia are members of the ACP and G 33, and a re strong advocates for the WTO rules that take 
into account the concerns of developing countries, in particular, the least -developed countries, 
small vulnerable economies and net food importing developing countries, as well as the need to 
preserve the pol icy space necessary to implement critical development programmes.  
4.278.   Finally, we wish the delegation of Jamaica a successful trade policy review.   WT/TPR/M/359  • Jamaica  
 
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  5  REPLIES BY THE REPRE SENTATIVE OF JAMAICA  AND ADDITIONAL COMME NTS 
5.1.  Mr. Chairman, I wish to first express my sinc ere appreciation for the thorough and insightful 
presentation made by Ambassador Kristjansson on Wednesday. The Jamaican delegation is 
particularly grateful for his balanced approach to his role as discussant.  
5.2.  The Jamaican delegation also wishes to thank a ll delegations for their participation in the 
meeting on Wednesday, which reflects an acknowledgement of Jamaica 's role in and contribution 
to a rules -based multilateral trading system. The Jamaican delegation is grateful for the notes of 
commendation on J amaica 's implementation of its economic and trade reform agenda. We took 
note of the concerns expressed in some areas, and will consider the recommendations advanced 
by delegations.  
Specific Issues Highlighted by Delegations  
5.3.  Mr. Chairman, I will first seek  to respond to the specific issues highlighted by the delegations 
on Wednesday.  
The CET Anomaly  
5.4.  Jamaica is cognizant of the tariff lines that have excee ded our bound rate obligation. Indeed, 
it is an anomaly that we are taking steps to resolve. It may be noted, however, that this anomaly 
partly resulted from Jamaica 's application of the CARICOM CET for some products that a re above 
Jamaica 's bound rate. The matter is being addressed at the level of CARICOM in a review of the 
CET regime which is now underway . The review is scheduled to be completed in December 2017.  
5.5.  Additional Stamp Duty  
5.6.  Mr. Chairman, as it relates to concerns raised regarding Jamaica 's Additional Stamp Duty, it 
may be recalled that WTO Members are allowed to apply "other duties and charges " (ODC), in so 
far as they have been included in the Member 's WTO schedule of concessions.  It is worth noting, 
Mr Chairman, that Jamaica notified the Additional Stamp Duty as a recognized ODC in its WTO 
Schedule of Commitments. The ASD, as is applied on sele cted imports, is consistent with our 
schedule and is governed by the Stamp Duty Act 1937 (as amended).  
Outstanding notifications  
5.7.  Delegations also raised the issue of Jamaica 's outstanding notifications. Despite capacity 
constraints, Mr. Chairman, Jamaica h as sought to keep up with its notification requirements under 
the WTO Agreements. It appears , however, that we require further clarification on the areas in 
which notification is required. We will work with the WTO Secretariat to clarify the outstanding 
obligations with a view to taking appropriate action.  
SPS Issues  
5.8.  On issues related to sanitary and phytosanitary measures, Mr. Chairman, all animals and 
animal products, by -products and any related item to be imported into Jamaica must obtain an 
import perm it from the Veterinary Services Division of the Ministry of Industry, Commerce, 
Agriculture and Fisheries. The sole purpose of this permit, Mr. Chairman, is to ensure that the 
source from which the importation is to be undertaken is free from all form of p athogens that 
could be injurious to the country 's human or animal population.  
5.9.  Jamaica is party to the Protocol Governing CARICOM Control Analysis and Approval 
Procedures for trade in animals and animal products, and we abide by the decisions made by this 
body. 
5.10.   Any country desirous of exporting any animal, animal product or by -product into Jamaica 
must apply for such access through the CARICOM Secretariat from which a determination is made 
whether to grant a permit to allow entry or whether a risk evaluation  must first be conducted.  WT/TPR/M/359  • Jamaica  
 
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  Amendments to the TRIPS Protocol  
5.11.   Mr. Chairman, Jamaica recogniz es the importance of the TRIPS agreement and its potential 
to foster domestic innovation, encourage foreign direct investment, and aid in improving access to 
generic drugs. It is for this reason that my Ministry is engaged actively in close consultations with 
the relevant Ministries and Agencies within the Government, with a view to deciding on ratification 
of the protocol amending this Agreement.  
Systemic issues  
5.12.   Mr. C hairman, I now turn to the more systemic issues raised by delegations.  
Poverty Reduction  
5.13.   Mr. Chairman, the issue of poverty alleviation was raised by delegations on Wednesday. The 
Government of Jamaica acknowledges that more work is needed to further reduc e Jamaica 's 
poverty rate. It is within this context that on 4 September 2017, Cabinet approved the National 
Policy on Poverty and the National Poverty Reduction Programme.   
5.14.   The programme identifies the need for interventions to be implemented at the natio nal, 
community and individual/household levels. The Programme is  to be delivered through 
medium -term cycles aligned with the Medium Term Socio -Economic Policy Frameworks of 
Jamaica 's national development plan, Vision 2030.  
5.15.   The targeted nature of the progra mme will include focusing on specific gro ups and 
administering a slate of critical interventions. The programme will seek to reach, in the first 
instance, those without adequate nutrition in an effort to eradica te extreme hunger and poverty. 
Secondly, the programme will seek to build and strengthen the productive and earning capacity of 
those consuming within 10 % above the poverty line. These are the transient poor who are 
susceptible to external shocks, and can easily fall in and out of poverty.  
5.16.   In additi on to addressing basic needs and promoting economic empowerment, the 
programme will seek to influence psychosocial factors, cultural practices and norms among the 
poor that perpetuate poverty. This component will also seek to strengthen and reinforce posit ive 
values, practices, and coping strategies among the poor and within the society that will result in 
strong families and communities. It is envisioned that the results of such interventions will lead to 
improved parenting practices, increased levels of m otivation towards education and training, and 
higher levels of personal responsibility and social capital. The medium -term focus will also involve 
the strengthening of basic social and physical infrastructure and increasing access.  
Security Environment  
5.17.   Mr. Chairman, Jamaica is fully aware of the implications of security concerns for the gains 
made in reforming its trade and economic regime. We are encouraged that five of the seven 
categories of serious crime show substantial reductions. While work continues  in that regard we 
are redoubling our efforts in addressing the more intractable categories. It is also important to 
note that incidents of serious crime are largely concentrated in identifiable localities.  
5.18.   The Government of Jamaica recognizes that crime is multi -dimensional and has therefore 
embarked on a series of strategies which seek to reverse the historical approaches taken to the 
issue of crime and violence in Jamaica. These strategies include legislative and justice reform, 
increased focus on rehab ilitation in correctional institutions, social intervention and leveraging the 
use of technology, to dismantle organised crime and remove profit from illegal activities. The 
implementation of this strategic mix of law enforcement, accountability and soci al intervention 
adheres to the G overnment 's obligations to protect the rights of its citizens, while addressing 
safety concerns.  
5.19.   The Law Reform (Zones of Special Operations) (Special Security and Community 
Development) Act, recently passed, underpins a new a nd innovative intervention which targets 
localities with chronic high levels of crime. The Act gives the Prime Minister, on the advice of the 
National Security Council, powers to declare specific high -crime localities of Jamaica as zones for WT/TPR/M/359  • Jamaica  
 
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  special securi ty operations and community development measures. This is intended to displace the 
criminal element and re -engage marginalized and vulnerable  members of these communities.  
5.20.   The Act mandates that within five days of declaration of the zone a Social Intervent ion 
Committee, Chaired by the Prime Minister, must be convened to address critical human needs and 
build basic infrastructure to promote peace and economic empowerment. These include basic 
social services that you would presume exist: civil registration, h ealth and social protection, 
employment and skills training. The first zone was declared on 1 September 2017, and i s 
operating according to plan.  
5.21.   Mr. Chairman, Jamaica 's anti -corruption efforts continue. Steps are being taken to 
strengthen the institutiona l and legislative framework including through the promulgation of a new 
Integrity Commission Bill. The Bill, which is in its final stages before the Parliament will strengthen 
measures for the prevention, detection, investigation and prosecution of acts of  corruption through 
the creation of a single anti -corruption agency. Also before Parliament is a bill to institutionalize an 
elite law -enforcement agency responsible for investigating major organized crime. These efforts 
will also be supported by the Natio nal Identification and Registration Act, which is designed to 
facilitate a secure, reliable and robust verification and authentication of the identity of all Jamaican 
residents.  
5.22.   The engagement of our bilateral, regional and international partners in these efforts, in 
addition to the fight against the emerging challenges of cyber -security, money laundering and 
anti-narco trafficking rem ain critical to these success.  
Infrastructural Development  
5.23.   Mr. Chairman, infrastructural development in Jamaica was highligh ted by delegations as an 
area requiring further work. Jamaica acknowledges that this issue is one of our major supply -side 
constraints. To address Jamaica 's deficit in this area, the Government of Jamaica is primarily using 
the divestment of government ass ets through Public Private Partnership (PPP) arrangements in 
which priva te sector capital is provided.  
5.24.   Recent successful divestments include our main seaport to a large international operator, 
which is integral to our efforts to expand the trade -related in frastructure and enhance our 
participation in global trade. The divestment of the international airport in our capital city is now 
underway. Specialized Enterprise Teams have also been formed within the Development Bank of 
Jamaica to oversee infrastructure  development transactions in the areas of water, energy, 
commercial and residential real estate, as well as agriculture.  
National Disaster Resilience  
5.25.   Mr. Chairman, Jamaica has long recognized the importance of disaster risk management to 
the achievement o f its national development goals. Over the last 20 years, natural disasters in 
Jamaica have had an average impact of 2-3% of Gross Domestic Product (GDP) per year. Given 
the Government 's goal to deliver strong economic growth and prosperity for all Jamaica ns, we 
acknowledge that this can only be achieved if deliberate, proactive, strategic and integrated 
approaches to reducing risk are urgently implemented across all sectors and at all levels.  
5.26.   We wholeheartedly support, Mr. Chairman, the view expressed by t he Permanent 
Representative of Barbados on Wednesday that we must recognize the vulnerability of Small 
Island Developing States (SIDS) such as those in the Caribbean. Our geographic location, our 
fragile economies and our susceptibility to natural disaster s speak for themselves.  
5.27.   At the regional level , the Caribbean Disaster Emergency Management Agency (CDEMA), 
which was established over 25 years ago, continues to coordinate the regional response s to 
disasters. Jamaica 's own Office of Disaster Preparedness and Emergency Management (ODPEM), 
operates in close collaboration with this Agency.  
5.28.   Jamaica has embarked on a number of strategies and initiatives such as our Building 
Disaster Resilient Communities (BDRC) Programme supported by a number of development WT/TPR/M/359  • Jamaica  
 
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  partners and NGOs over the last 8 years. These projects and interventions have seen us pursuing 
resilience activities in more than 200 of over 700 vulnerable communities on the island.  
5.29.   We are partnering with the World Bank under the Jamaica Disaster Vulnera bility Reduction 
Project, which is a multi -sector, multi -level strategic programme involving government, academia 
and private sector partnerships. The Ministry of Health, with the help of PAHO and the WHO, has 
programmed 4 main areas for risk reduction ini tiatives to include the Smart Hospitals Strategy, 
and has also targeted 100 local health facilities for assessment within the next 4 -5 years.  
5.30.   Jamaica has also commenced the use of geospatial data and information in this context. We 
have established a Nati onal Emergency Geospatial Information Specialist Team (NERGIST)  – a 
team of volunteers across G overnment and private sector that collect and analyse geospatial data 
to aid in preparation, mitigation and response efforts.  
Diversification of exports and mar kets 
5.31.   Mr. Chairman, on the matter of diversification of exports and markets, we agree that 
Jamaica must accelerate efforts to diversify its exports and export markets. This is the "raison 
d'être" for Jamaica 's Global Logistics Hub Initiative and the establi shment of our Special Economic 
Zones.  
5.32.   The reshaping of the framework and implementation strategy for the development of ports 
and special economic zones, and their integration into the local economy, is scheduled to be 
completed in October of this year. T he strategy will also guide investment targeting and clustering 
of industries.  
5.33.   The Special Economic Zone Authority, created by the SEZ Act, resulted in the repeal of the 
Jamaica Export Free Zone Act, which was focused on export incentives. The new legislat ion and 
regulations will facilitate the integration of Jamaica 's businesses into global supply and value 
chains so as to improve export diversification and access to new markets. The development of 
regulations to support the operations of the zones should be in place by the end of 2017. The SEZ 
Authority, which is operational, is guiding the development of the regulations.  
5.34.   The Logistics Hub Initiative will seek to link Jamaican producers and service suppliers with 
transnational companies in ways which redo und to the benefit of Jamaica through job creation, 
technology transfers and skills development.  
5.35.   Mr. Chairman, the 2014 tax reform package replaced sector specific tax incentives with a 
general set of incentives that would be accessible by all investors, i rrespective of their sector of 
concentration. The reform creates the environment for investors to engage in the production of 
varied goods, which lends itself to broader export possibilities.  
5.36.   In order to meet its obligations under the WTO Agreement on Sub sidies and Countervailing 
Measures to eliminate its export subsidy programmes by 31 December 2015, Jamaica repealed 
four pieces of legislation that were notified to the WTO as containing exp ort subsidies. The new  
WTO-consistent incentives regime provides f or incentives that are general in application and has 
increased transparency in the process of granting waivers.   
CARICOM Regional Integration  
5.37.   Mr. Chairman, on the matter of CARICOM regional integration, Jamaica shares the concerns 
expressed by delegation s at the slow pace of the implementation of the CARICOM Single Market 
and Economy (CSME). Jamaica remains committed to pursuing efforts at the regional level to 
advance the process.  
5.38.   We are encouraged that following a year -long review of the current status  of CSME 
implementation, the 38th Regular Session of CARICOM Heads of Government held in July 2017, 
approved a CSME Implementation Plan for the period 2017 -2019.  WT/TPR/M/359  • Jamaica  
 
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  Energy  
5.39.   Mr. Chairman, the cost of energy has been a major impediment to our global 
competitive ness and the retention of foreign exchange earnin gs. To address this issue, the 
Government is increasing the contribution of renewable energy to the national grid, with a target 
of 30% by 2030. We are now at 16.5% with 37 megawatts on stream. Efforts are a lso underway 
to switch Jamaica 's primary source of electricity from oil and diesel  to Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG), 
which is a cheaper source of electricity for businesses and consumers. A new LNG plant was 
opened in western Jamaica in 2016 and in 2019 anot her is planned for close to Kingston, our 
capital city.  
5.40.   In addition, the G overnment is incentivizing the use of energy conservation equipment and 
appliances, creating public awareness around energy conserv ation, and partnering with non -State 
actors on a n umber of pilot projects aimed at reducing energy consumption.  
5.41.   Finally , Mr. Chairman, I must express my appreciation to you, Ambassador Kristjansson, all 
delegations which have participated in the discussions over the two days. We have sought to 
respond to the questions and comments which Members have raised during this exercise. We have 
also circulated responses to most of the written questions received before Wednesday, and those 
that are outstanding will be circulated as soon as possible.  
5.42.   We received foll ow-up questions overnight from a number of delegations. Responses to 
these will be provided  as soon as poss ible within the time allotted. I thank you.  
DISCUSSANT  
5.43.   Let me begin by congratulating Jamaica again on its successful TPR.  
5.44.   The preparation for this TPR has illustrated the deep commitment that Jamaica has towards 
the international trading system. That was highlighted by delegations on Wednesday and is 
illustrated by the important tasks the membership has trusted to my colleague Ambassador 
McCook.  
5.45.   The Jamaican team has approached the work in this TPR in a very professional way. In her 
detailed intervention on Wednesday , Minister Johnson Smith gave us very clear overview of state 
of affairs and the policy for the way forward. And again here today the Min ister has responded in 
detail to the ma in points raised by delegations which we highly appreciate.  
5.46.   I will in my intervention this morning highlight the main issues that have emerged from our 
dialogue Wednesday and through the written questions.  
Achievement s 
5.47.   Firstly , it can be extracted from interventions by delegations the remarkable economic 
progress Jamaica has made since the 2011 review. There is no need to repeat the indicators here 
today. They speak for themselves.  
5.48.   Secondly , delegations applauded the Government of Jamaica for its comprehensive policy 
making  in broad number of areas. The G overnment continues to follow those policies rigorously 
with new legislation, strategies being adopted and implemented with clear objecti ves and 
measurable indicators.  All on t he basis of Vision 2030 Jamaica  which is the main point of 
reference.  
5.49.   Many delegations complemented the G overnment for its comprehensive tax reforms that 
have been undertaken and are ongoing with the main objective to provide further incentive for  
economic growth.  
5.50.   Furthermore, plans that are underway to strengthen the agricultural export sector should 
also be mentioned, as agriculture is an important component of Jamaica 's export base.  WT/TPR/M/359  • Jamaica  
 
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  5.51.   Delegations and the Minister highlighted the importance of se rvices in the Jamaican 
economy with particular reference to tourism. It was clear from the Minister 's statement that 
comprehensive work is underway to strengthen tourism as a source of export revenues. In that I 
see similarities between Jamaica and my own country and stress the importance of policy making 
in that regard. In particular , I would highlight the plans to strengthen linkages between the 
tourism industry and other areas of the economy like agriculture. This is exactly what has 
developed strongly i n my country in recent years and has in fact become one of the strongest 
supporting pillars to regular agricultural activity.  
5.52.   Finally, on trade policy, many delegations referred to the important policy making 
undertaken in reviewing the foreign trade polic y of Jamaica.  
5.53.   In this context , it should be mentioned that some delegations raised issues related to 
conclusions of FTAs and to deepen the CARICOM cooperation , in particular to accelerate the 
development of the CARICOM Single Market.  
5.54.   In a nutshell the poli cy making and the measures taken are about reforms to support 
sustainable long -term growth.  
5.55.   The growth plan is ambitious as outlined by the Minister to reach a 5% growth per annum in 
the next four years.  
5.56.   And as pointed out by many delegations , this is al l resulting in the fact that Jamaica is 
sprinting up the list of different indexes measuring various economic performances.  
5.57.   At the same time , recent events show  the vulnerability to natural catastrophes that have 
direct impact on growth. It illustrates th e fact that Jamaica is a small island S tate dependent on 
international trade and investment and is vulnerable to external shocks.  
5.58.   On the other hand , delegations highlighted number of issues that are of concern to them. I 
will not go in any details but only mention the main areas.  
5.59.   Firstly , many delegations raised concerns regarding higher duties compared to the last 
review on some products and still very high duties on agricultural products. In addition , many 
delegations raised concerns regarding stamp duties  and additional stamp duties in particular on 
agricul tural products. They urged the G overnment to look into the system seeking more 
transparency.  
5.60.   Secondly , delegations referred to customs procedures still being cumbersome and 
highlighted the importance of progressing further with regard to trade facilitation like , for example , 
to increase electronic customs procedures. In that context , the new Customs Act being presented 
is the opportunity to advance further in this area.  
5.61.   Thirdly , delegations referred to in ternal security as an area that still had negative impact on 
economic progress and highlighted the importance of addressing , for example , institutional 
weaknesses in that respect.  
5.62.   Fourthly , many delegations referred to the low growth rate still being a cha llenge for the 
Jamaican government even though positive signs are being seen on that front.  
Final r emarks  
5.63.   Many neighbo uring delegations mentioned the historical links between their countries and 
Jamaica. That illustrates that it is not only trade per se th at is of importance but also historical 
ties. After all, if you look at trade figures you normally find out that your most important trading 
partners are your neighbo urs. 
5.64.   Recent natural catastrophes should also be seen in that context; they have much broad er 
impact than just in communities directly hit.  
5.65.   Some neighbo uring delegations mentioned cultural links.  WT/TPR/M/359  • Jamaica  
 
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  5.66.   But such links reach beyond neighbo urs. For many of my generation in Europe and all over 
the world I am sure the first knowledge of Jamaica was throug h music. Day in and day out you 
could sit and enjoy Bob Marley and then you started to dig further and found Peter Tosh and later 
on Ziggy Marley and so on. Bit rebellious, but that is often what you associate with a young age. 
But their work is still ther e and they are a solid part of our Spotify lists of today.  
5.67.   And then you become older and you start to enjoy top quality Jamaican coffee while still 
enjoying Bob Marley.  
5.68.   Sport is another example linking countries together. The endless production of sprinter s 
from Jamaica is remarkable. One delegation mentioned football and the world cup. And yes 
Jamaica was there in 1998. This is all part of nations identity.  
5.69.   It has been a privilege to participate in this process of Jamaica; in particular when you are 
able, due to a solid performance of the country under review, to approach it from a positive angle 
like all delegations have in fact done.  
5.70.   Let me finally thank all the delegations that have actively participated in this exercise with 
interventions and written q uestions.  
5.71.   Let me also thank the Secretariat for its kind assistance to me as discussant. Furthermore, 
let me complement the Secretariat for its work on the report because , once again , it has produced 
a document that is a clear point of reference to all of  those that want to get closer acquainted with 
Jamaica, its economy and the general trade environment.  
5.72.   Also let me thank my colleague Ambassador Wayne McCook for the inside he provided me 
with during my preparations.  
5.73.   I wish you Madam Minister, your G overnm ent and the Jamaican people all the succe ss on 
the journey towards 2030. Thank you.  
BENIN 
5.74.   The delegation of Benin welcomes the efforts, initiatives and reforms undertaken by the 
Jamaican authorities and competent institutions with a view to establishing a new framework for 
conducting economic and trade activities.  
5.75.   We underscore Jamaica's fiscal consolidation reforms, the tightening of the Bank of 
Jamaica's monetary policy, the promotion of agricultural production, efforts to improve 
transparency, the stream lining of government service procedures, and so forth.  
5.76.   These reforms aim to establish a framework conducive to achieving the objectives set out in 
"Vision 2030", the National Development Plan, which should help Jamaica reach developed country 
status by 203 0. 
5.77.   The delegation of Benin congratulates Jamaica for the progress already achieved under the 
Plan, in spite of external shocks and natural and environmental constraints. The resurgence of 
economic growth in 2016, estimated at 1.5%, may give new impetus to implementing the targets 
set in the Plan.  
5.78.   The delegation of Benin encourages Jamaica to push forward with these reforms.  
5.79.   Jamaica is a strategic player in the rules -based multilateral trading system and a staunch 
supporter of the system.  
5.80.   The delegation of B enin thanks Jamaica for its efforts to incorporate the development 
dimension into the multilateral and regional trade negotiations, including those aimed at 
strengthening the ACP Group.  
5.81.   The delegation of Benin fully appreciates the valuable contributions m ade by Ambassador 
Wayne McCook and his team, their constructive engagement and useful interaction in the Doha WT/TPR/M/359  • Jamaica  
 
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  Round of trade negotiations, and especially their efforts to advance the preparatory work for the 
Eleventh WTO Ministerial Conference, in various configurations, within the Negotiating Group on 
Rules, the G -90, the Group of 77 and China in UNCTAD, and so forth.  
5.82.   The delegation of Benin, along with the delegation of Jamaica, is convinced that it is more 
vital than ever in the current international eco nomic circumstances to strengthen the negotiating 
arm of the WTO so that the Eleventh Ministerial Conference in Buenos Aires delivers positive and 
tangible outcomes which prioritize development, in accordance with the Doha Development 
Agenda, and will unde rpin the efforts made to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).  
5.83.   The delegation of Benin thanks the WTO Secretariat and the Government of Jamaica for the 
highly informative reports prepared for this review of Jamaica's trade policies.  
5.84.   It wishes J amaica a successful conclusion to its trade policy review.  
HAITI 
5.85.   My delegation congratulates Jamaica on its fourth trade policy review, a task that always 
requires a vast amount of work until the review actually takes place. Congratulations are also due 
to the WTO Secretariat for its report and to the discussant for his summary report of the key 
points of the review.  
5.86.   Jamaica has implemented a series of tax, macroeconomic and trade reforms that have 
proved beneficial for its economy. They have made the count ry's financial system more resilient, 
reduced inflation to its lowest level since 1964, and improved the business climate. These are 
noteworthy achievements.  
5.87.   Jamaica's trade balance has significantly improved since the previous trade policy review 
but none theless remains negative despite a 94.8% increase in re -exports. As in all the CARICOM 
economies, services account for a large share of GDP – 73% in the case of Jamaica. Tourism is the 
main contributor to the sector, and Jamaica has taken a number of initi atives aimed at increasing 
local participation. This approach should be encouraged.  
5.88.   De-risking is a major challenge for the Jamaican economy and those of other CARICOM 
members, as it restricts access to international payment and financial systems as a resu lt of the 
loss of correspondent banking relationships in certain developed countries.  
5.89.   Along with the other CARICOM members, Jamaica has played an important role in the 
Committee on Financial Services to raise awareness of this issue among WTO Members.  
5.90.   Lastly, my delegation takes this opportunity to wish Jamaica every success in this review 
and also wishes the Jamaican delegation, headed by Senator the Hon. Kamina Johnson Smith,  
Minister of Foreign Affairs and Foreign Trade, a safe return home . 
EUROPEAN  UNIO N  
5.91.   On behalf of the European Union let me first thank Jamaica for the comprehensive overview 
presented last Wednesday and this morning of the main developments occurred during the review 
period.  
5.92.   The EU is pleased to note that this review has been very usef ul for better understanding the 
trade policy of Jamaica and hopes that Jamaica will duly take into account some of the challenges 
highlighted by Members.  
5.93.   The EU expresses its appreciation for the replies Jamaica has provided so far and would also 
be gratef ul to receive some of the pending replies.  
5.94.   In conclusion, we would like to thank Jamaica for its constructive participation in this 
exercise.  WT/TPR/M/359  • Jamaica  
 
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  UNITED  STATES  
5.95.   We also want to join others in thanking Minister Johnson Smith and the entire delegation for 
the ha rd work they have invested in preparing and executing the review. We are well aware of 
how much effort is required behind the scenes and we certainly acknowledge and commend the 
work they have done  and their commitment to the TPR process.  
5.96.   We also want to t hank and appreciate the contributions over the review from Ambassador 
Kristjánsson , his comments this morning certainly highlighted some of the factors that contribute 
to Jamaica 's high ranking in lifestyle index, something that we are indeed envious of an d we thank 
you for pointing out a few areas where perhaps we could explore a little deeper.  
5.97.   Today, we just wanted to reiterate the importance that we place on both our bilateral trade 
relations and our partnership in collaboration with Jamaica here at the WTO. This TPR has 
highlighted an ambitious and focus ed trade policy agenda and we want to reiterate our willingness 
to work with Jamaica to increase prosperity in the Caribbean and in the hemisphere . 
5.98.   We appreciate the written responses to our questions and  the additional responses included 
in today 's statement by Minister Johnson Smith, particularly those related to SPS measures and 
intellectual property rights. Unfortunately, responses to several written question remain 
outstanding, including those related  to our SPS concerns. We have submitted additional follow -up 
questions this morning and we look forward to receiving your responses for those.  
5.99.   In conclusion, we thank you for your excellent efforts and we congratulate you on a 
successful TPR.  
THE SEPARAT E CUSTOMS  TERRITORY  OF TAIWAN,  PENGHU,  KINMEN  AND  MATSU  
5.100.   I would like to join other s in congratulating Minister Johnson Smith and her distinguished 
delegation from Kingston. I also wish to thank the discussant, H.E. Ambassador Kristjánsson , for 
his insightf ul remarks.  
5.101.   We note that this review has been very useful for better understanding the trade policy of 
Jamaica and we commend Jamaica for the initiatives taken to restructure its trade regime towards 
effective integration into the global economy.  
5.102.   In term s of bilateral trade, we have enjoyed a steady growth  in the  trading relationship 
with Jamaica. Since Jamaica 's last TPR in 2011, the value of bilateral trade per year has grown 
from US$30 million to US$60 million. We wish to continue working together with  Jamaica to 
deepen our bilateral ties.  
5.103.   Finally, I would like to take this opportu nity to thank H.E. Ambassador Mc Cookfor his 
contribution to the multilateral trading system as the chairperson of the Negotiating Group on 
Rules. We congratulate the Jamaica n delegation on a successful TPR and look forward to 
continuing the cooperation with a valued partner and to Jamaica 's continued active engagement in 
the WTO. We wish safe travel to those going back to Kingston.  
H.E.  MRS.  KAMINA  JOHNSON  SMITH  (HEAD  OF DELEGA TION)  
5.104.   I would only reiterate the sincere thanks of myself and my clearly very able delegation for 
the participation of all Members present and all who submitted questions, and to assure you that 
we will provide the responses to your outstanding questions i n the shortest time possible within 
the allocated period. Thank you very much for your interest and for the attention that has been 
paid to the developments that we have been making in Jamaica, much appreciated. Thank you.  WT/TPR/M/359  • Jamaica  
 
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  6  CONCLUDING REMARKS B Y THE CHAIRP ERSON  
6.1.  This fourth Trade Policy Review has offered a very useful opportunity for Members to deepen 
their understanding of the trade policies and practices of Jamaica, and to collectively appreciate 
the challenges it faces in sustaining and improving its eco nomic prosperity. I would like to thank 
the Jamaican delegation, led by Her Excellency Mrs. Kamina Johnson Smith, Minister of Foreign 
Affairs and Foreign Trade, the discussant Ambassador Högni S. Kristjánsson of Iceland, and to the 
31 delegations that took  the floor for their valuable contributions.  
6.2.  In their interventions, Members commended Jamaica for having made major strides in 
restoring macroeconomic stability since its previous Review in 2011, and for maintaining a 
programme of fiscal prudence, debt re duction and tax policy reform s that is showing positive 
results. Indeed, Jamaica registered its lowest current account deficit in 15 years and its lowest 
inflation rate since 1964. Moreover, Jamaica was praised for the measures it is taking to attract 
larger FDI inflows and to improve the business climate. Nonetheless, it was noted that the average 
real GDP growth rate below 1% observed during the review period was insufficient to reduce 
poverty levels, which stand at one -fifth of the population. In this re gard, Members took note that 
Jamaica has set an ambitious target of achieving a 5% GDP annual growth rate in the next four 
years. Members also highlighted that Jamaica aims to achieve developed country status by 2030. 
Jamaica sees trade as an important fac tor for improving competitiveness and it aims to ensure 
that the wider society benefits from trade through increased revenues and employment. In this 
respect, Jamaica was encouraged to further diversify its trade both in terms of goods and services 
as well  as geographically.  
6.3.  Members congratulated Jamaica for its active participation in the WTO, for having ratified the 
Fifth Protocol to the GATS in 2012 as well as the Trade Facilitation Agreement in 2016 and for 
having submitted its commitments under this a greement. On the other hand, they encouraged the 
country to accept the Protocol amending the TRIPS Agreement and to fully meet its notification 
commitments in the various areas where they remain outstanding, including on customs valuation 
and GATS. Members  also noted that Jamaica has benefited from technical assistance and capacity 
building activities and that as a proponent of the Work Programmes on Small Economies, it 
promotes the needs and priorities of such economies to be fully addressed in all areas o f the WTO. 
Members recognized Jamaica 's leadership role in the WTO as well as at the regional level through 
CARICOM.  
6.4.  Tariffs and other duties and charges on imports remain Jamaica 's main trade policy 
instrument and the largest source of government revenues . In this regard, some concerns were 
expressed on Jamaica 's numerous duties and charges on imports, including additional stamp 
duties on certain agricultural products, as well as on the fact that MFN applied rates exceed their 
bound levels for 32 tariff li nes. Members also noted that Jamaica 's simple average applied MFN 
tariff rose from 9.4% in 2010 to 10.4% in 2017 mainly due to increases on some items of 
CARICOM 's CET. I have taken  note of the replies and comments made by the Minister  regarding 
these issu es, including the review that is taking place at the CARICOM level that will be completed  
by December 2017.  
6.5.  Several delegations enquired about Jamaica 's new Customs Act that is to be adopted to 
facilitate trade. Members congratulated Jamaica for having iss ued or amended a large amount of 
legislation since 2011, including the Insolvency Act, the Fiscal Incentives Act, the Banking Services 
Act, and the Electricity Act. Jamaica was particularly praised for having adopted a new Special 
Economic Zones Act that m eets its obligations under the WTO 's Agreement on Subsidies and 
Countervailing Measures, as well as for its Omnibus Incentives Legislation 2014 which repealed the 
four incentive schemes that had been notified to the WTO as containing export subsidies.  
6.6.  Questions were raised about the status of the implementing regulations for the Public 
Procurement Act, following the adoption of Jamaica 's first stand -alone Public Procurement Act. 
Some delegations expressed concern that the new Act will keep a domestic prefer ence of up to 
10% and a reservation of 15% of procurements for domestic SMEs. Some Members encouraged 
Jamaica to become observer in the Agreement on Government Procurement (GPA) with a view to 
future GPA accession. Other issues of interest to Members refer red to the creation of the single 
market within CARICOM, SPS certification procedures, and IPR protection and amendments to the 
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  6.7.  Members noted that agriculture in Jamaica faces many challenges such as inadequate 
infrastructure and natural di sasters. Members were concerned by border protection measures on 
agricultural products: in addition to tariff protection, additional stamp duties are collected while 
non-automatic import licensing is applied on some products. Members urged Jamaica to expan d 
market access opportunities for agricultural products.  
6.8.  Members encouraged Jamaica to focus on policies that enable investment in growth areas 
such as the services sector, which accounts for around 70% of its GDP. Members commended 
Jamaica for the changes  introduced on banking services and noted that the financial services 
sector has become more resilient to shocks. Some Members applauded the measures Jamaica has 
taken to limit the impact of the withdrawal of correspondent banking services on its financial  
services sector, but noted that challenges remain with respect to the effects of this development. 
Members highlighted that the overall Internet penetration rate had jumped from 4.4% in 2011 to 
65% in 2016. They also pointed out that reforms in the transp ort sector aiming at improving 
connectivity and boosting tourism are a step in the right direction. Noting the important 
contribution of tourism to GDP and to foreign exchange earnings, some Members encouraged 
Jamaica to continue to explore tourism opportu nities, which could help to address unemployment 
in particular among the youth.  
6.9.  Jamaica has already responded to almost all 140 advance written questions. This review will 
be successfully concluded in a month 's time, when Jamaica replies to all outstanding  questions.  
6.10.   I am certain that Jamaica will feel encouraged by the importance that Members have 
attached to this exercise which is very timely given Jamaica 's current drive for ambitious 
transformation and modernization. I would encourage Jamaica to contin ue its efforts to boost 
trade and investment and to take into account the constructive comments that it has received 
during this TPR process. This will surely help Jamaica to enhance its competitiveness in the global 
economy and deepen its participation in  the multilateral trading system.  
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