Jamaica cassava challenges expose weaknesses in intra-regional trading arrangements

Cassava cultivated in Guyana

Arguably to a far greater extent than anywhere else in the Caribbean, Jamaica, largely through the creativity and ‘sense of hustle’ of ordinary Jamaicans benefits from what is believed to be the most thriving agro processing sector among CARICOM member countries.

Its agro produce has reached the taste and quality standards to allow these to gain market acceptance both inside and outside the region.

 Much of Jamaica’s success in this area is believed to derive from what has appeared, consistently to be the support of government. JAMPRO, the state-run entity that styles itself “the premier trade and investment promotions corporation representing the Government of Jamaica” has, over time,  established itself as the standout extra-regional production promotion entity in the region.