Seiveright Urges Diaspora Investors as Jamaica Hosts 11th Biennial Conference in Montego Bay

Hon. Delano Seiveright, Minister of State in the Ministry of Industry, Investment and Commerce, has called on Jamaicans abroad to channel more capital into the domestic economy. He argued that disciplined public finances, together with steady macroeconomic and political conditions, have placed the country on firmer footing for inward investment.

Addressing a plenary on the opening day of the 11th Biennial Jamaica Diaspora Conference on Monday, June 15, at the Montego Bay Convention Centre in St. James, Mr. Seiveright said that “Jamaica, today is stronger, more stable and more investment-ready than at any point in our modern history”. The gathering is being held under the theme ‘Diaspora Partnerships: Rebuilding a More Resilient Jamaica’.

The State Minister told delegates that Jamaica has shown economic durability despite pressures in the wider global environment. Among the gains he pointed to were ongoing infrastructure works, a sustained downward trend in crime, and a steady exchange rate.

He also drew attention to international reserves of roughly US$6.5 billion, which he said cover more than 34 weeks of imports—close to three times the international benchmark of about 12 weeks. That level of reserve strength, he added, amounts to a “remarkable position” for a small developing state still working to recover from the damage left by a category-five hurricane.

Mr. Seiveright said sound economic fundamentals, reinforced by a long record of political stability, make Jamaica appealing to investors, commercial banks, credit-rating agencies, and global capital markets. “Investors notice and so do our friends in the diaspora. Jamaica’s pathway to prosperity is grounded in stability, strategic partnerships, and a commitment to rebuilding a more resilient economy together,” he said.

The plenary underscored the need for cooperation across borders, with diaspora skills, investment funds, and trade links seen as vital to Jamaica’s continued recovery and expansion after recent disaster shocks. Organisers said the conference further advances the country’s standing as a source of resilience and opportunity within an increasingly uncertain world economy.