KINGSTON, Jamaica – The total estimated damage to some local manufacturers following the passage of Hurricane Melissa has been placed at J$250 billion.
In a statement on Friday, the Jamaica Manufacturers and Exporters Association (JMEA) said based on its initial assessment, only 10 percent of the 600 companies under its membership are located in the most devastated parishes.
The loss is based on the reported impact on sales, infrastructure, and inventory.
According to the Association, courtesy calls were made to members in affected parishes. Forty-one members responded.
Of these respondents: 12 companies reported minor disruptions and are expected to resume full operations once electricity is restored.
Eighteen others experienced partial damage and are awaiting the restoration of critical utilities before resuming normal operations.
The remaining 10 companies were severely impacted, resulting in a complete halt in production.
The hardest-hit sectors include manufactured foods and beverages, wood and furniture production, cosmetics and personal care, and primary agriculture.
JMEA President Kathryn Silvera says 80 percent of manufacturers have since resumed normal operations, particularly in parishes that were not directly affected.
The JMEA also noted that to date, millions of dollars’ worth of goods have been procured from local manufacturers and delivered to the worst-affected parishes.
