This is a best prospect industry sector for this country. Includes a market overview and trade data.
Last Published: 8/6/2019

Overview

Imports of chemicals and related imports from the U.S. have been driven by demand for ethanol to satisfy Jamaica’s E10 fuel mandate and sodium hydroxide for the expanding bauxite/alumina industry.  There is also increasing demand for pharmaceuticals, nutraceuticals, cosmetics, and jewelry.  Growth in pharmaceuticals has been driven by increased access to healthcare through the government’s no-user fee policy and the National Health Fund, an aging population, and the increased incidence of lifestyle diseases.

Chemicals & Related Products ($ M)

2015

2016

2017

2018

Total Local Production

N/A*

N/A

N/A

N/A

Total Exports

26

29

261

 218

Total Imports

578

558

665

 754

Imports from the US

272

276

359

 442

Total Market Size

N/A

N/A

N/A

N/A

Exchange Rates

116.68

125.14

128.36

 129.72

(total market size = (total local production + imports) - exports)
*N/A indicates no data is available
Source:  STATIN
 

Leading Sub-Sectors

Best prospects include medications for hypertension, respiratory diseases, sexually transmitted diseases, and diabetes.  Beauty products, jewelry, disinfectants, and agricultural chemicals provide some scope for growth.
 

Opportunities

Exporters to Jamaica will find growing opportunities for pharmaceuticals as the population ages and lifestyle diseases become more prevalent.  Demand for pharmaceuticals could also be driven by increased subscription to a National Health Fund and free access to healthcare. The National Health Fund, the government entity responsible for sourcing and distributing products to the public health sector, is a major importer of pharmaceuticals.
 

Web Resources

Prepared by our U.S. Embassies abroad. With its network of 108 offices across the United States and in more than 75 countries, the U.S. Commercial Service of the U.S. Department of Commerce utilizes its global presence and international marketing expertise to help U.S. companies sell their products and services worldwide. Locate the U.S. Commercial Service trade specialist in the U.S. nearest you by visiting http://export.gov/usoffices.