Christmas in July trade show tops $1 billion as JBDC expands MSME support

The 12th Christmas in July trade show is again matching Jamaican manufacturers with tourism-sector buyers, while the Jamaica Business Development Corporation is urging micro, small and medium-sized enterprises to use government support from idea stage through export.

Organised with the Tourism Enhancement Fund, the fair has generated more than $1 billion in business between local suppliers and tourism since it began. Organisers describe a “local first” approach that turns visitor demand into Jamaican contracts, jobs and wealth. Since the 2015 launch, 849 manufacturers have taken part, rising from 72 exhibitors in the first year to a peak of 212 in 2024. This year’s intake includes 121 new applicants and 59 returnees. Applications ran from April 7 to May 29; those not selected still receive professional feedback on their work.

Fruit Blossoms founder Kadine Harvey, now in her fourth year, is among vendors who credit the platform for growth. She said people often see her product as “just a popsicle,” but she sees Jamaican farmers, local fruit, culture, manufacturing, tourism, innovation and export potential. Other exhibitors showcased beauty and organic lines, handcrafted scented candles, arts and crafts, jewellery, fashion inspired by Jamaican desserts, trademarked Zamika textiles for interiors, and embroidery-and-print collections. Several reported sales, new customers, hotel and airport leads, and lasting clients. One artisan said Singapore’s tourism minister bought an original painting now held in a museum there after seeing the work through TEF channels.

TEF officials say successful firms often move up the supply chain and into other markets, freeing space for newer makers, and that artisans may also be taken to events such as Sumfest or coffee and rum festivals. Would-be exhibitors are directed to TEF’s social channels for future application details.

Separately, on Get the Facts, JBDC acting chief executive officer Harold Davis said the agency, under the Ministry of Industry, Investment and Commerce, supports MSMEs from concept to market. He said MSMEs provide more than 85 per cent of Jamaica’s employment, with Inter-American Development Bank estimates putting the sector near 440,000 businesses. Services include idea validation, formalisation with bodies such as the Companies Office of Jamaica, Bureau of Standards Jamaica and the Scientific Research Council, business and strategic plans, grant or loan guidance, training, scaling and export preparation with partners including JAMPRO, the Trade Board and the Bureau of Standards.

Davis warned against starting from desperation without a clear market need, refusing help, and lacking skills in costing, marketing and scaling. After Hurricane Melissa, he said JBDC is helping firms rebuild with greater resilience, diversify raw materials and markets, roll out green-technology support, and has signed an agreement with UNIDO for agro-industrial recovery. Officers and offices cover all parishes; clients can also onboard at www.jbdc.net. He called now a good time to start if ventures are sustainable and digital-smart, especially in agro-processing, food security and agrotech.

The Ministry of Justice and Constitutional Affairs also invited the public to a free virtual legal consultation on Monday, July 20, 2026, from 9:30 a.m. to noon, via pre-registration or Zoom meeting ID 870667613, with details at www.moj.gov.jm or 888-JUSTICE.