Government Moves to Support Integration of MSMEs into Global Value Chains
Kingston, Jamaica - The Government has announced its commitment to developing appropriate mechanisms to support the integration of Micro, Small and Medium-sized Enterprises (MSMEs) into global value chains.
Enhancing Competitiveness in the Global Market
The move is aimed at ensuring that Jamaican MSMEs are equipped with the necessary tools and standards to compete effectively in the global market. This will require the development of a National Quality Infrastructure (NQI) designed to support health, safety, fair trade, and global competitiveness.
Stakeholder Consultations
According to a statement from the Government, consultations will be conducted with all relevant stakeholders to ensure that their needs are taken into account during the implementation of the National Quality Policy and the building up of the NQI.
Establishing a National Quality Infrastructure
The Government has committed to establishing a National Quality Infrastructure designed to meet international standards and best practices. This infrastructure will include:
- National standards
- Metrology
- Accreditation systems
- Conformity assessment systems
Strengthening the National Accreditation Body
The Ministry responsible for Commerce will provide resources necessary to maintain and strengthen the National Accreditation Body, which will provide accreditation services to conformity assessment service providers such as:
- Testing laboratories
- Calibration laboratories
- Inspection bodies
- Certification bodies
Supporting the National Standards Body
The Government has committed to supporting the National Standards Body in the execution of its responsibility for the establishment of voluntary national standards for materials, goods, and services. The body will ensure that all standards are developed in conformity with approved guidelines and rules based on international agreements such as:
- WTO Agreements
- CARICOM Agreements
Establishing a National Metrology Institute (NMI)
The Government has announced its intention to establish a National Metrology Institute (NMI) for Jamaica, which will be responsible for:
- Scientific and industrial metrology
- Facilitating legal metrology
- Ensuring that all calibration laboratories and verification facilities utilize measurement standards and devices that are traceable to the national measurements standards kept by the NMI
Implementing a Conformity Assessment System
The Government has committed to implementing a conformity assessment system that meets international requirements, ensuring that conformity assessment activities are performed by entities with appropriate accreditation.
Conclusion
This move is seen as a major step towards supporting the integration of Jamaican MSMEs into global value chains and enhancing their competitiveness in the global market.