Business Development

Through strategic partnerships and targeted programmes, the JMEA offers exclusive benefits, financing, training, and growth opportunities to support our members at every stage of their business journey.

EXIM Bank Uncollateralized Loan Facility

Access up to J$3.5 million in financing at competitive rates through our exclusive partnership with EXIM Bank. This facility is tailored for JMEA members looking to scale operations without the need for collateral.

LASCO Microfinance Credit Facility

Get affordable, flexible financing with special interest rates through our partnership with LASCO Microfinance Limited. JMEA members also benefit from tools like the LASCO Gold Visa Card to streamline business transactions.

IGNITE Programme (with DBJ)

Ignite your business growth with up to J$10 million in funding support from ideation to commercialization. This partnership with DBJ empowers JMEA members to bring innovative products and services to market.

JMEA Retirement Account (JMEARA)

Secure your future with customized pension plans for SMEs, developed in partnership with VM Pension Management. JMEA members can now access retirement solutions designed to grow with their business.

Honeybun Foundation Advisory Programme

Gain access to free one-on-one mentorship with three seasoned business professionals focused on profitability and governance. This exclusive JMEA partnership supports SME development through a 12-month mentorship model.

JMEA CARE

Offer your team affordable health and life insurance through the JMEA CARE Insurance Scheme, in partnership with Sagicor Life. Designed for manufacturers and exporters, this plan supports employee wellness and retention.

Bureau of Standards Jamaica (BSJ) Discount Programme

Through our partnership with the Bureau of Standards Jamaica (BSJ), members receive support in acquiring and implementing both local and international standards. Members also benefit from a 20%–25% discount on related services.

Jamaica Productivity Centre (JPC) Programme

Boost your business operations with a free 4-hour productivity assessment from JPC experts. JMEA members receive a detailed report with actionable recommendations to improve efficiency.

HEART/NSTA Trust Apprenticeship & Job Placement

Through our agreement with HEART/NSTA Trust, JMEA members can offer work-based learning and job placements to young professionals. This initiative helps bridge skills gaps while contributing to national workforce development.

Magna Motors

Take advantage of special financing options on select Hyundai vehicles, including commercial and passenger models:

  • Reduced Interest Rate: Now just 7.75% (previously 9.75%)
  • 0% Processing Fee
  • Financing up to 85%
  • Repayment term: up to 5 years

This offer is available only to JMEA members. For more information, please contact: Clayton Clarke at 876-564-3960 or via email at clayton.clarke@magna.com.jm

University of Technology Co-op Ed Programme

Through our partnership with UTech Jamaica, JMEA provides hands-on work experience for final-year students. This initiative helps build a future-ready workforce with exposure to international standards.

Export Max Programme

Export Max, a flagship government programme led by JAMPRO in collaboration with the JMEA and JBDC, provides technical support to manufacturers and service providers aiming to grow their exports. The JMEA leads the mentorship component, connecting members with seasoned exporters for strategic guidance and hands-on export development.

Mr. Sydney Thwaites

President

Mr. Thwaites has over 28 years of experience in financial services, petrochemicals, and consulting, with a global reach spanning the USA, Canada, Europe, Asia, and the Caribbean. He co-founded Lubricating Specialties Company Jamaica in 2015, revitalizing the local lubricant manufacturing industry. With a solid track record of organizational leadership, Mr. Thwaites has developed and negotiated long-term partnerships with major global companies, closed various debt and equity financing deals, and delivered consistent growth and returns. Known for his dynamic

leadership, trustworthy and ethical approach, and keen market understanding, he has served as CEO of LSC USA and held advisory roles with the U.S. Export-Import Bank and the Petroleum Quality Institute of America.

Licenses, Permits, and Certificates: A Quick Guide

Apply for the necessary licenses, permits, and certifications at the following Agencies:

  • Plant Quarantine Produce Inspection (PQPI) Division: Contact for exportation of agricultural produce. A certified packaging facility is required. Specifications and guidelines can be obtained from PQPI.
  • Veterinary Services Division: Contact for export permits/licenses related to the following:
    • Apicultural products
    • Bee products
    • Animals and animal by-products
  • Jamaica Agricultural Commodities Regulatory Agency (JACRA): Contact for exporting the following:
    • Coffee
    • Coconut
    • Cocoa
    • Spices (including Pimento, Nutmeg, Ginger, and Turmeric).
  • Cannabis Licensing Authority (CLA): Contact for exporting the following:
    • Cannabis
    • Hemp
  • Mines and Geology Division: Contact for exporting the following minerals:
    • Bauxite
    • Limestone
    • Aggregates
    • Gravel
    • Alumina
    • Cement
    • Rock
    • Stone
    • Soil
  • National Environment and Planning Agency (NEPA): Contact for exporting the following:
    • Scrap products (metals, batteries, etc.)
    • Hazardous materials
    • Endangered species.
  • Trade Board Limited: Contact for exporting the following:
    • Scrap metal (including scrap batteries and scrap gold)
    • Coffee
    • Ammunition (explosives and firearms)
    • Plasma
    • Wood (Lignum Vitae and log wood only)
    • Jewellery (excluding those from earth metals)
    • Brown Sugar
  • Ministry of Health and Wellness: Contact for exporting pharmaceutical products.

Bureau of Standards Jamaica (BSJ): Consult with the BSJ for guidance on processed food prior to exporting. This includes information on standards, labelling and market requirements.