Mining Sector Remains Cornerstone of Jamaica’s Economy

The mining sector remains a cornerstone of the Jamaican economy, driving 85 per cent of traditional exports and contributing significantly to national development, while accounting for approximately two per cent of gross domestic product (GDP).

Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Mining, Hon. Floyd Green, noted that during this period of post-hurricane recovery and reconstruction, it is critical for the mining sector to continue advancing.

“In 2025, export earnings from our bauxite and alumina subsector were US$612 million, and we are seeing increased investor confidence where the investment in our mining sector for bauxite moved from US$251 million to US$326 million last year,” he reported.

The Minister was making his 2026/27 Sectoral Debate presentation in the House of Representatives on Wednesday (May 13).

Mr. Green disclosed that although Hurricane Melissa significantly affected the productive capacity of the bauxite and alumina subsector – causing operational disruptions and infrastructure challenges – companies in the industry continue to invest.

“Windalco has completed their haulage road in St. Ann, which opened up access to increased quantities of high-quality ore; they invested about US$29 million. Atlantic Alumina has entered into a strategic partnership worth $450 million in relation to Gramercy in Louisiana.

“This signals a significant shift in the industry for us here at Discovery Bauxite. They are investing US$45 million this year to construct a new haulage road, [undertake] maintenance upgrades and purchase heavy-duty equipment,” he added.

Mr. Green stated that a review committee was appointed in 2025, chaired by noted economist and technocrat, Dr. Wesley Hughes, to examine the management arrangements with Discovery Bauxite.

“We will be forwarding those recommendations to Cabinet and then we will advise the House of our next steps. Century Aluminum has invested approximately US$80 million in capital upgrades at Jamalco Refinery, including the installation of a new turbine generator to improve energy self-sufficiency, which should be opened the end of May,” he further informed.

Meanwhile, a Ministry delegation will travel to the People’s Republic of China in June for direct discussions with the Jiuquan Iron and Steel Company (JISCO) as the Government seeks definitive clarity on the reopening of the Alpart plant in St. Elizabeth and the future direction of its operations.

Minister Green emphasised that this is a matter of significant importance to the mining sector, and even more so to the people and communities of St. Elizabeth, as well as to the country as a whole.

“We have to take a definitive decision about the future of JISCO this year. They had indicated to us that they would start the phased reopening [of Alpart] towards the end of last year. We have already set a date to meet with them in person so that they can tell us their plans. If they don’t have any immediate plans, the Government will have to act,” he emphasised.