Membership overview

One Powerful Voice. Unlimited Opportunities.

With a diverse network of over 600 members across Jamaica’s manufacturing, export, and service sectors, the JMEA stands as a unified voice driving industry growth. Our comprehensive range of services including advocacy, capacity building, trade support, and access to financing empowers businesses to thrive locally and compete globally.

Why join the JMEA?

01

Powerful Advocacy
Join a Powerful Network of Over 500 Companies

02

Business Development Support
Receive Business Development Support and Access to Finance

03

Market Access & Trade Opportunities
Access New Markets and Expand Your Reach

04

Networking & Industry Linkages
Boost Export Capabilities and Increase Revenue

Membership Types:

Ordinary Members

Sole trader or limited liability company engaged in manufacturing and or export, or likely to become exporters.

Associate Members

Service-based businesses, associations, or entities in the service industry that provide or are likely to provide services to manufacturers and exporters. This membership is ideal for those supporting the export sector through specialized services and expertise.

Frequently asked questions

Who is eligible to join the JMEA?

The JMEA welcomes registered businesses involved in manufacturing, exporting, or related services. This includes micro, small, medium, and large enterprises operating within these sectors.

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.