Senator Orin Hill urges MSMEs to ready for billions in NAR-linked contracts

Minister of Industry, Investment and Commerce Senator Orin Hill is calling on micro, small and medium-sized enterprises to position for contracts expected under the National Reconstruction and Resilience Authority (NAR), projecting that Jamaica could attract between US$6.5 billion and US$20 billion in investment over the next five to seven years.

Speaking at the New Testament Church of God Kingdom Builders Business Expo in Old Harbour, St. Catherine, Hill urged proprietors to formalise their operations and prepare to supply goods and services tied to forthcoming infrastructure work. He said NAR will oversee billions of dollars in contracts, opening avenues for local firms in transport, food supply and other support services.

On the Jamaica Stock Exchange for the July 13, 2026 trading session, Wigton Energy Limited led activity with 5,719,315 units, or 24.8% of market sales. TransJamaica Highway Limited followed with 5,443,095 units (23.6%), while Sagicor Select Funds Limited — Financial accounted for 2,388,440 units (10.36%). Dealing remained centred on transportation and finance names, pointing to sustained demand for dividend-oriented and strategic holdings.

Bank of Jamaica foreign-exchange figures for the same date showed active dealing across major currencies. The US dollar was quoted at J$159.70 selling and J$157.63 buying. The Canadian dollar sold at J$113.79 and was bought at J$107.59, with banks holding a J$6.20 spread. The British pound sold at J$213.96 and was bought at J$209.61, leaving a J$4.35 bank margin. The report noted that import costs, debt service and overseas exposure make rate timing material for firms.

A credit tip stressed that focusing only on monthly loan instalments can obscure the wider cost of high interest. Elevated rates on cards, personal loans or microfinance facilities raise the total burden of debt, slow payoff and can weaken credit scores through higher utilisation or missed payments. Lower-cost borrowing, by contrast, supports faster repayment and a stronger credit history.

Separately, lenders are increasingly applying artificial intelligence to assess credit risk, cash flow and repayment capacity. Entrepreneurs are advised to keep sound records, clear strategies, measurable results and accurate paperwork ready. AI tools can also help refine business plans, projections and funding pitches. Firms that pair preparation with innovation are expected to compete more effectively for loans, investment and grants.