Jamaica's Industries

Sugar

The Sugar industry is the oldest continuously operating industry in Jamaica dating back over 500 years to 1509, when it was introduced to island by Spanish settlers. Jamaica eventually became the leading exporter of sugar in the world in the 18th-19th century under English rule.  [Read on... ]

Banana

By the latter part of the 19th century, the economy of Jamaica no longer depended exclusively on sugar exports as banana overtook it as the main agricultural export.  [Read on... ]

Bauxite

Jamaica's Bauxite industry has been a driver of economic growth and development since its discovery in the 1940s. The discovery of substantial bauxite reserves on the island attracted significant foreign investment. [Read on... ]

Tourism

From the early days of agricultural decline to the modern era of all-inclusive resorts and cultural heritage tourism, this timeline explores the key milestones, strategies, and economic impacts that have defined each period of Jamaica's tourism development. [Read on... ]

Cacoa

Coffee