JAMAICA: Small Farmers Encouraged to Get Involved in Medicinal Cannabis Industry

#Kingston, February 26, 2019 – Jamaica – Small farmers are encouraged not to shy away from the opportunities available in the growing medicinal cannabis industry because of the perceived prohibitive fees.  

Speaking at a recently held Jamaica Information Service (JIS) ‘Think Tank’, Jamaica Promotions Corporation (JAMPRO) Manager, Logistics and Infrastructure, Don Gittens, said local farmers should approach the relevant authorities in the medicinal cannabis industry for guidance on becoming a part of the industry.

“You might be small and uncertain of how you will come up with the fees or you don’t know how to get into the industry, and what JAMPRO will do, as the organisation responsible for the investment and promotion of the medical cannabis industry, is to advise you on how to get this done,” he pointed out.

According to Mr. Gittens, the medicinal cannabis industry is in its infancy stage, and this provides an opportunity for local financial institutions such as cooperatives and friendly societies to form relationships with local farmers and become involved in the industry.

“The industry is growing at a phenomenal rate, and we need to ensure that we are at the forefront, so collaborations with small farmers will be critical to being among the first to market,” he noted.

The cultivation of medicinal cannabis was highlighted by Mr. Gittens as a key area that farmers and local establishments can seek to invest in as they seek to be involved in the industry.

“Currently, 17 of the 29 issued licences are in the category of cultivation, because it is critical to the growth of our local market, so that can be an area that small farmers take advantage of,” Mr. Gittens said.

Contact: Roshieka Grant

Photo Caption: Jamaica Promotions Corporation (JAMPRO) Manager, Logistics and Infrastructure, Don Gittens, speaks at a recent Jamaica Information Service (JIS) ‘Think Tank’.

Photo by Mark Bell