Jamaica’s beloved Easter tradition of bun and cheese isn’t just alive and well — it’s big business. According to preliminary data from the Statistical Institute of Jamaica (STATIN), the island exported a combined J$2.6 billion worth of buns, cheese, bread, and bullas between January and November 2024.
Breaking it down, STATIN reported that cheese exports earned Jamaica approximately US$6.3 million (J$986 million), while buns and related baked goods brought in US$10.5 million (J$1.6 billion) over the 11-month period.
STATIN noted in a post on its website that the “export statistics for bun and cheese show the demand for one of Jamaica’s favourite Easter snacks internationally.” While the Institute didn’t detail the importing countries, it’s well known that Jamaicans living in the United States, Canada, and the United Kingdom help drive that demand, with bun and cheese shipments becoming a seasonal tradition across the diaspora.
The Ministry of Finance also weighed in, sharing that the tradition of bun and cheese was originally a British custom in the United Kingdom during the 1600s and 1700s. In the UK, small, round, and slightly sweet buns, called hot cross buns, were made with a cross cut into the tops. Jamaicans later adapted by adding molasses, honey, and stout — a twist noted by the BBC.
The sale and consumption of the buns were supposedly forbidden in England, except during specific times, one of which was Good Friday. The cross came to symbolise the crucifixion of Jesus.
Variations of the hot cross bun were made and sold in Jamaica, with the same tradition of eating it during Easter. Eventually, like with many other baked staple goods, Jamaicans added cheese into the mix and began the tradition of a bun and cheese sandwich.
Each year, especially during Easter, Jamaicans at home and abroad make sure to keep the tradition alive — one sweet, cheesy bite at a time.
