Fifty-seven companies have been on boarded under phase four of the Jamaica Promotions Corporation (JAMPRO) EXPORT MAX program.
EXPORT MAX is designed to enhance the competitiveness and sustainability of Jamaican companies to position themselves to enter into new and existing international markets to facilitate growth.
Investment and Commerce Minister, Senator Aubyn Hill, commended the organizers of the initiative, noting that it provides critical support to micro, small and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs) seeking to expand their goods and services into international markets.
“The importance of exporting cannot be overstated. It is the engine that will drive our GDP growth and elevate our per capita GDP. I am particularly proud of the 57 companies that are in the EXPORT MAX program,” he said, pointing out that 36 of these entities are operated by women.
Meanwhile, JAMPRO President Shullette Cox said the agency, through its continuous interaction with exporters, noted the ongoing challenges MSMEs were experiencing in penetrating international markets.
To address these, she said the program was redesigned and expanded during the phase for the third cohort, utilizing public-private partnerships to respond to the MSMEs’ needs.
“We are committed to providing a comprehensive and customized suite of integrated solutions, dedicated to your export development and promotion,” Cox said.
She pointed out that EXPORT MAX will aid participating entities to unlock their full export potential through JAMPRO’s advocacy agenda, mentorship and coaching program, as well as tailored development and promotional solutions.
“This will help to drive the success of your company through a unique blend of technical training, expert guidance and on-the-ground promotional activities, and expand your company’s global reach through established in-market connections and a proven formula to successfully enter new markets or expand into existing markets,” Cox said.
The entities are slated to benefit from capacity development, export promotion, mentorship and advocacy over a two-year period.
Specific focus areas will include accounting management, productivity improvements, sales training, exporting, access to financial support, marketing plans, participation in missions and trade fairs, cross-border selling, closing deals and contract signings.
Launched in 2011, the EXPORT MAX program is implemented by JAMPRO in partnership with the Jamaica Business Development Corporation (JBDC) and Jamaica Manufacturers and Exporters Association (JMEA).
JAMPRO provides technical support, while the JBDC facilitates capacity-building through targeted interventions to equip participating firms to access and service identified export markets.
 EXPORT MAX program.){kind=link}