KINGSTON, Jamaica – Initiatives have been taken to develop the coffee industry, says the Minister of Agriculture and Fisheries of Jamaica, Hon. Pernell Charles Jr. Speaking at the press launch of the Jamaica Blue Mountain Coffee Festival at Devon House in Kingston on Monday, 9 January, the minister said the coffee industry is a priority on the ministry’s agenda.
“The ministry, through agencies such as the Jamaica Agricultural Commodities Regulatory Authority (JACRA) and the Rural Agricultural Development Authority (RADA), has put in place various initiatives aimed at reintroducing. coffee industry, as we seek to capitalize on its income-earning potential while at the same time ensuring that our renowned and highly sought-after Blue Mountain Coffee can be enjoyed by as many consumers as possible across the globe,” he said.
He also added that the ministry is implementing various initiatives to ensure the continued sustainability and viability of the industry, especially for young farmers, and as a contributor to Jamaica’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP).
“JACRA is developing coffee industry business model, which seeks to identify product diversification and markets, investment opportunities and new technologies and practices with the aim of increasing coffee production for the mutual benefit of all stakeholders,” the minister said.
Held on 25 March in the hills of Newcastle, the Jamaica Blue Mountain Coffee Festival is the Ministry of Tourism’s flagship event, led by the Tourism Enhancement Fund (TEF), that celebrates homegrown coffee.
In its sixth phase, the festival provides an opportunity for consumers to explore Blue Mountain Coffee, coffee-related products and experience the coffee culture in Jamaica through food and various activities.
