PNP’s Bold Vision for Jamaica’s Creative Economy: $1 Billion Commitment
KINGSTON, Jamaica — In a spirited session at Gordon House on Thursday, Julian Robinson, the Opposition spokesman on finance, planning, and the public sector, unveiled a transformative vision for Jamaica’s creative and cultural industries. Speaking during the 2025/26 Budget Debate, Robinson announced that a future People’s National Party (PNP) government would allocate a whopping $1 billion to support this vibrant sector.
“Jamaica’s creative and cultural industries hold immense potential to drive growth,” Robinson emphasized, highlighting the struggles faced by many talented individuals and small businesses in the creative realm. He pointed out that while emerging stars on platforms like TikTok and YouTube are already making waves globally, they often do so without any government support. “Imagine what could be achieved if structured support was in place,” he said, painting a picture of a thriving creative economy.
Robinson’s proposal includes the establishment of a Creative Economy Support Fund, which he described as a “game-changer” for small creative businesses. This fund, to be managed by the Development Bank of Jamaica, aims to turn raw talent into globally competitive brands. “With the right investment and policies, the government can catalyse a creative boom,” he stated, urging the Parliament to recognize the potential of this sector.
The $1 billion fund will be sourced from discretionary spending within the government’s programmed budget, a strategic move that reflects the PNP’s commitment to export-led growth. Robinson explained that this funding will not only help small businesses develop robust business plans but also enable them to expand into new markets. “We want to make Jamaican talent more competitive on the world stage,” he asserted.
Moreover, the fund aims to provide access to working capital, allowing creative entrepreneurs to sustain and grow their operations. Robinson also highlighted the importance of building entertainment spaces for festivals and events, which would further boost both tourism and the creative economy. “This is about creating opportunities for our people,” he said, echoing the sentiments of many who believe in the power of culture to uplift communities.
The response from the public has been overwhelmingly positive, with many Jamaicans expressing excitement about the potential for growth in the creative sector. “It’s about time we invest in our artists and creators,” said local musician and entrepreneur, Jamal Thompson. “We have so much talent here, and with the right support, we can take Jamaica to the next level.”
Robinson’s vision resonates with a growing belief among citizens that the creative industries can play a pivotal role in Jamaica’s economic future. As the world increasingly turns to digital content, the opportunity for Jamaican creators to shine on the global stage has never been more significant.
As the debate continues, one question lingers: How will the current government respond to this bold proposal, and will they recognize the untapped potential of Jamaica’s creative economy? The future of our artists and creators may very well depend on the decisions made in the coming months.