Caribbean News
JAMAICA: Discussions Begin with Manufacturers to Reduce Sugar in Drinks
#Kingston, September 12, 2018 – Jamaica – Minister of Health, Dr. the Hon. Christopher Tufton, says discussions have started with 
manufacturers who distribute sugary drinks to schools about the steps they will be taking to reduce the sugar content, before the Government implements its new policy on these drinks in January 2019.
Speaking at the release of the ‘Are You Drinking Yourself Sick?’ post-obesity-prevention campaign survey results, which took place at the Spanish Court Hotel in New Kingston on September 10, Dr. Tufton said manufacturers are key stakeholders that the Government wants to see producing juices that are more fruit-based and healthy for the nation’s children.
“There are three months to go [before the policy is implemented in January]. In the meantime, we have been having discussions with a number of the critical stakeholders, including manufacturers,” Dr. Tufton said.
“I think it’s important that the dialogue continue. I think it’s key for the behavioural change that we seek to include all concerned, because this campaign, this public advocacy, is not just about behavioural change for our children, our teachers, our vendors and our policymakers; it’s also about behavioural change for those who supply the goods that we would like to consume,” he added.
Dr. Tufton said he is encouraging school-beverage manufacturers to embrace the approach the Ministry of Health has been taking, as the goal is to reduce obesity and non-communicable diseases (NCDs) among our nation’s children.
“It’s good business to say to your consuming public that we have a product that’s good for you, and frankly speaking, a drink that contains four times the daily recommended amount of sugar cannot be good for you,” the Minister argued.
According to the ‘Key Findings in the Obesity Prevention Public Opinion Survey, Jamaica’, which were presented at the event, seven out of 10 
Jamaicans attributed negative health impact to sugary-drink consumption; approximately eight out of 10 respondents were concerned about the effects of sugary drinks on their children’s health, and there was evidence to show that children had easier access to sugary drinks at school, when compared to their homes or other places outside of their homes.
The survey also stated that approximately 54 per cent of respondents agreed that children had most sugary drinks at school; approximately 83 per cent of them strongly supported policies on the provision of healthy food and beverages in schools; approximately 71 per cent of Jamaicans interviewed support the imposition of a tax on sugary drinks; eight out of 10 persons agreed that the tax revenue should be spent on programmes that reduce obesity, especially among children; and 91 per cent of respondents agreed that there should be clear warning labels on the front of food and beverage packages to alert consumers when products are high in sugar, salt or fats.
Release: JIS
Caribbean News
Sandals Resorts and Beaches Resorts celebrate a night of wins, and take home a total of 16 titles at the 32nd Annual World Travel Awards
Providenciales, Turks and Caicos Islands (October 6th, 2025) – CaribCon, the Caribbean conference celebrating culture, innovation, and creativity, will welcome some of the region’s most influential voices to its inaugural edition in the Turks and Caicos Islands. The event, set to be a dynamic gathering of thought leaders and cultural icons, will feature impactful panel discussions, inspiring and intimate fireside chats and a flow of knowledge from some of the Caribbean’s brightest and best in the creative sector.
Elizabeth “Lady” Montano
Jamaica’s own Dr. Terri-Karelle Johnson, celebrated communications specialist, media personality, and global keynote speaker, will headline CaribCon as the official keynote speaker. Known for her ability to connect authentically and inspire audiences worldwide, Dr. Reid will share her insights on Caribbean identity, storytelling, and the power of representation in shaping global narratives. Another highlight of CaribCon will be the presence of Elizabeth “Lady” Montano, mother and former manager of soca superstar Machel Montano. Lady will launch her award-winning book, King of Soca, in which she is positioned as the ultimate insider, chronicling the evolution of one of the Caribbean’s most iconic entertainers. She will also share her invaluable experiences on nurturing talent, building a brand, and sustaining longevity in the competitive music industry in an intimate fireside chat. Adding further star power to the event is Simon Baptiste, CEO of Question Mark Entertainment, co-founder of ODOS, a global collective network spanning over 1000 professionals in 35 countries, film director, talent manager and creative strategist. Baptiste will bring his expertise to conversations on shaping the region’s creative sector and talent.
Simon Baptiste
“CaribCon is where the Caribbean’s voices, ideas, and creativity converge,” says Omega Simmons, founder of CaribCon and CEO of SOS Media. “Having leaders like Terri Karelle, Lady Montano, and Simon Baptiste share their stories and expertise truly embodies the spirit of this event. Their presence reinforces the power of Caribbean culture to inspire and influence on the world stage.” CaribCon will take place at the Shore Club in Providenciales, the Turks and Caicos Islands, from October 23rd to 26th. Attendees can look forward to networking opportunities, panel discussions, and meaningful dialogue to foster an ecosystem that develops the region’s creative sector and propels it onto the global stage.
Sponsors are:
Signature Experience Partners: Ministry of Tourism, Experience Turks and Caicos, and The Shore Club.
Other sponsors: PPID, Invest TCI, InterCaribbean Airways, Subtronic Sounds, Spotlight Communications.
Hotel partners: Ocean Club Resorts, Waterloo Hotel Management, The Somerset on Grace Bay and Ports of Call Resort.
For more information, tickets, and updates, visit www.caribcon.co or follow @caribconhq on all social media platforms.
For more information please email: contact@caribcon.co
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