Adrian Frater, News Editor

REID

Western Bureau:

The Montego Bay Chamber of Commerce and Industry (MBCC) has lauded Government's recent decision to upgrade the western regional office of Jamaica Trade and Invest (formerly JAMPRO), describing it as critical to the growth and development now taking place in the region.

"It is a timely and strategic move as the developments slated for the region must be accommodated in an environment that is conducive and friendly to investments," said Pauline Reid, chamber president. "We believe Jamaica Trade and Invest has to be that accommodating agency."

The Jamaica Trade and Invest office, located in Montego Bay, once functioned as a fully-staffed office but was downgraded during the previous administration. Since then, the MBCC has been lobbying for the office to be returned to full strength in order to offer greater representation to the region.

Greater regional focus

"I recently met and had discussions with Conrad Robinson, who has been appointed regional manager, and I am satisfied with the plans he outlined for a greater regional focus," said Reid. "We believe great things will happen for us when the office becomes fully functional in light of the level of growth and development now taking place."

In looking at some of the specific ways the region would benefit from a fully functional Trade and Invest office in the west, Reid cited factors such as the speeding up of administrative processes as well as greater scope for promoting the region's invest-ment and development potential.

"The approval process, as well as the 'red tape' associated with new investments, has been too bureaucratic and lengthy," said Reid, in explaining the difficulty in trying to function without a regional office.

"In many instances, it has been a deterrent to investments. Having a regional office here will definitely enhance and facilitate a smoother process and will also assist in managing the challenges associated with this new thrust."

adrian.frater@gleanerjm.comx