Jamaican Businesses Urged to Step Up at International Trade Shows
In a vibrant call to action, State Minister for Tourism Senator Delano Seiveright is urging Jamaican businesses to ramp up their efforts in forming partnerships with regional and international counterparts. Speaking at the launch of the Jill Stewart MoBay City Run at Sandals Montego Bay, Seiveright emphasized the importance of making a strong presence at major international trade shows.
“Jamaican businesses have a golden opportunity to shine on the global stage,” Seiveright declared. He believes that by participating in these events, local enterprises can tap into the tourism linkages industry, which has the potential to generate significant earnings while showcasing Jamaican goods and services to the world.
The Power of Collaboration
Seiveright pointed out that collaboration is key to expanding Jamaica’s reach and offerings. He noted that many local businesses are not yet positioned to meet the basic requirements needed to compete internationally. “If our local businesses are to succeed, they must do more than produce. They must engage, engage, and engage,” he said, highlighting the need for businesses to be present at decision-making tables, from local networking events to international trade shows.
Learning from the Best
During his address, Seiveright praised Janet Silvera, the chairperson of the Jill Stewart MoBay City Run organizing committee, for her exceptional networking skills. “Whether you’re in Montego Bay, Kingston, or even Madrid, Spain, you’ll see Janet,” he remarked. This kind of energy and commitment is what he wants to see from the Jamaican business community, particularly among small and medium-sized enterprises.
The Importance of International Exposure
Seiveright urged local business operators to not only engage in local events but also to plan and budget for international trade shows. He highlighted events like IMEX in Las Vegas and the ITB trade show in Berlin as prime opportunities for Jamaican businesses to showcase their offerings. “It can be a bit expensive, but with proper planning, you need to be present at these shows,” he advised.
He pointed out that businesses from other countries, like the Dominican Republic, are already making their mark at these international events. “If you are serious about tapping into this multibillion-dollar industry, you must budget for it, make time for it, and make yourself visible,” Seiveright stressed.
A Call to Action
The message is clear: Jamaican businesses must step up their game. The tourism sector is ripe with opportunities for those willing to engage and collaborate. As Seiveright aptly put it, “We have the potential; we just need to harness it.”
With the world watching, will Jamaican businesses rise to the occasion and seize the opportunities that await them on the international stage? The future of Jamaica’s tourism industry may very well depend on it.