The Port Authority of Jamaica is currently investing billions of dollars in three major projects in St James.
These include the expansion of berth facilities at the Montego Bay Port at a cost of $1 billion. The works, which are already under way, aim to improve efficiency for cruise and cargo operations.
In addition, the Authority will be redesigning and scaping a section of Tony Hart Boulevard, the first phase of which will cost more than half a billion dollars.
“Later on in the pipeline is the development of the 12 acres and an over-water boardwalk along the northern coastline of the Bogue Lagoon,” Senior Vice President of Finance, Information Services, Corporate Planning and Materials Management, Elva Williams-Richards, said.
“These investments enhance the region’s capacity for trade, shipping and logistics, making western Jamaica a more attractive hub for international commerce and supports Jamaica’s goal of becoming a key player in the global supply chain,” she said.
She was addressing the recent Montego Bay Free Zone Limited (MBFZ) 40th Anniversary Client Awards Ceremony in St James.
The event celebrated the entity’s evolution from a promising industrial complex to a sophisticated hub of international business and technological innovation, while recognising the contributions of key stakeholders who have been instrumental in the zone’s success.
With approximately 8,000 workers employed, the MBFZ has made a significant impact on the economy of St. James and the wider Jamaica through commercial activity and job creation, particularly in the business process outsourcing (BPO) sector.
Williams-Richards pointed out that the entity, which is a subsidiary of the Port Authority, remains steadfast in its commitment to transforming western Jamaica and the country through further strategic investments.
Reflecting on four decades of economic contribution to Jamaica, she said the free zone was established to foster an environment where businesses can flourish, attract global enterprises and provide employment opportunities for Jamaicans to elevate their skills and livelihoods.
Over the years, the entity has adapted and transitioned from manufacturing and logistics to cutting-edge digital services, driving innovation across various industries to now include venturing into artificial intelligence (AI).
“Through its incubators, 16 firms have been accommodated, to date, with a 94 per cent success rate,” Williams-Richards outlined.
“This success could not have been possible without the dedication of our stakeholders, our government partners, investors, business operators, and most importantly, the talented men and women who power this ecosystem every day,” she pointed out.
