Profile of JMA

Who We Are

The Jamaica Manufacturers’ Association Limited (JMA) was established in 1947 as a limited liability company to promote the development of the manufacturing sector and increase its contribution to the socio- economic welfare of the country by creating jobs and improving the standards of living for all.

History of the JMA

The Jamaica Manufacturers’ Association Ltd. (JMA) was formed in 1947 by eight manufacturers, immediately after the aftermaths of World War 2. The effects of the war were many, but principal among them, was the shortage of basic goods. As a consequence, the JMA saw it necessary to present a preventative plan of action to counter future food related problems, while simultaneously manufacturing Jamaican products which consumers would accept.

By the year 1950 the JMA had attracted 100 members from different areas of the manufacturing industry. Ten years after the JMA’s inception, there were more active attempts to strengthen the industry by taking a holistic approach to the issues and concerns of manufacturers. This saw the Association being forefront in endorsing duty free raw materials, exemption from tonnage tax, quantitative restrictions on imported goods competing with locally made products, establishment of a Bureau of Standards, and a system of tariffs to enable fledging local industries to gain foothold. 

In 1964, the JMA moved to its two storey Duke Street Offices, where it has been housed ever since. The current JMA team and members has continued a tradition of excellence, which the earlier members cemented with their export promotions “The Flying Showcase” and exhibitions “EXPO ’71.”  Over the years, the Jamaica Manufacturers’ Association has continued to play a leading role in Jamaica’s manufacturing sector and the country at large, by contributing to employment and subsequently economic growth, and through its diverse connections to other sectors.

Goals and Objectives

1. To promote and encourage the development of manufacturing operations capable of making a contribution to the island’s economic welfare.
2. To promote and encourage industry, science, commerce and arts in Jamaica.
3. To encourage and assist members in the use of efficient and modern methods and the maintenance of proper standards of safety, labour relations and advertising. 
4. To foster and promote increased use of Jamaican manufactured goods.
5. To promote free discussions on problems in industry among its members.
6. To promote and encourage adherence to proper standards of quality.
7. To organize and conduct national and international tours and conventions connected with the manufacturing industry, for the benefit of members.
8. To foster, encourage and promote public interest, morality and fair business practices.

 

Our Mission

The fundamental purpose of the Jamaica Manufacturers’ Association Limited (JMA) is to serve our members through the efficient delivery of quality service that will impact positively on the development of manufacturing, our employees, and our associates, whilst contributing to the socio- economic welfare of the country.

What We Do

Promote the development of industry in Jamaica by:

• Encouraging and assisting members in the use of efficient and modern methods and the maintenance of quality and proper standards of safety
• Promoting, the use, in Jamaica and overseas, of products manufactured in Jamaica
• Assisting members in securing markets through participation in trade shows, conventions and trade missions both locally and overseas
• Promoting free discussions on problems in industry among our members
• Fostering,  encouraging and promoting public interest and fair business practices

Services

• We provide members with up- to- date information on the business environment.
• We make representation to Government on legislations and regulations affecting the manufacturing sector.
• Speak out on matters affecting the welfare of manufacturers and co-operate with private and public sector organizations to ensure that our members interests are served
• We assist members to secure concessionary rates of duties on certain categories of imported raw materials.
• We issue Customs Certification Letters for importation of packaging materials and sporting goods.
• We host seminars/ workshops from time to time to keep members abreast of information which enables them to operate their business profitably.
• Our publications which we provide free of cost to members, include newsletters, an annual magazine and regular bulletins
• We offer photocopying services

 

Membership

Application for membership may be made by completing and submitting an application form along with the relevant fees, to the JMA secretariat. Factories will be visited prior to submission of the application along with the fees to the Board of Directors for approval. A letter of acceptance and certificate will be forwarded to you on approval.

For additional information on the Jamaica Manufacturers’ Association Ltd., visit our website at www.jma.com.jm Call (876) 922- 8880-3/ 922- 8869, or visit our offices at 85A Duke Street, Kingston.