Jamaica, South Africa boost trade ties during deputy minister's visit

South Africa’s Deputy Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Alvin Botes, visited Jamaica from August 4‑8, meeting Jamaican Industry, Investment and Commerce Minister Aubyn Hill at a high‑level luncheon. Hill highlighted Jamaica’s stable political environment, strong reserves and a 67 % drop in murder rates, urging South African investors to consider the island as a gateway for regional trade.

Jamaica Manufacturers and Exporters Association president Kathryn Silvera welcomed the visit, noting historic solidarity between the two nations and urging deeper commercial partnerships in manufacturing, agro‑processing, renewable energy, logistics and creative industries. She stressed that current trade levels are modest and that the delegation’s discussions could open access for Jamaican firms to the Southern African Customs Union’s market of about 250 million people.

Both officials expressed optimism that the talks will lay the groundwork for expanded trade, investment and knowledge exchange between Jamaica and South Africa.