Your guide to being an expatriate in Jamaica

Demographics of Jamaica:

Religion Overview

Jamaica is a secular country, but Christianity remains an integral part of Jamaican culture. Approximately 95% of the population practices some form of Christianity, with modest communities of Hindus, Buddhists, and Muslims also present.

Major Religions

Climate

Jamaica has a tropical climate with rainfall spread throughout the year, though rain falls mostly during the summer months. Temperatures average between 20-30 degrees Celsius (68-86 degrees Fahrenheit) with little variation throughout the year.

Economy Overview

Jamaica has made significant strides in economic development over the past few decades. With a GDP of approximately $7.5 billion (2021), and a diversified economy that includes tourism, financial services, and manufacturing, Jamaica is a member of the CARICOM (Caribbean Community) and has established a Free Trade Agreement with the United States and Canada. Key markets include the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom, and Europe.

Key Industries

• Tourism
• Manufacturing
• Services (which includes Finance and Business services)

Major Companies

• Jamaica Producers Group (JPG)
• Digicel Jamaica
• Jamaica Ladies' Alumina Investment Company (JAMALCO)
• National Commercial Bank of Jamaica (NCBJL)
• Jamaica Broilers Group Ltd.

Culture and Language Overview

Jamaica is renowned for its distinctive cultural heritage, which blends elements of African, European, and Asian origins. The country is notable for its music, having given birth to reggae legends such as Bob Marley, Dennis Brown, and Toots and the Maytals. Jamaica's diverse culinary traditions include jerk chicken, ackee and saltfish, and festival, while colorful festivals like Carnival and Creole Heritage Festival continue to thrive. The official language in Jamaica is English.

Cultural Highlights

• Emancipation Day (August 1)
• Independence Day (August 6)
• Carnival (April-May)
• Reggae Month (July)
• National Heritage Week (August)

Geography and Landmarks Overview

Situated in the western Caribbean, Jamaica is home to stunning natural beauty that weaves through its diverse landscape of lush forests, cascading waterfalls, and golden beaches. Recognized as the birthplace of reggae legend Bob Marley, the country is also home to significant historical sites such as Sergeant Major’s Castle, the birthplace of Jamaica’s National Hero, Paul Bogle, and Kennesaw National Battlefield Park that commemorates a significant part of Jamaica’s history.

Notable Landmarks

• Dunn's River Falls
• Blue Lagoon
• Black River
• Port Antonio
• Bob Marley's Birthplace and Museum

National Holidays

• New Year's Day (January 1)
• Groundation Day (April)
• Good Friday
• Easter Monday
• Labour Day (May)
• Emancipation Day (August 1)
• Independence Day (August 6)
• Know Your Rights Day (August 22)
• Christmas Day (December 25)
• Boxing Day (December 26)

Political Stability

Jamaica is officially a parliamentary constitutional monarchy, with the Queen of England as its head of state, represented by a governor-general. The country’s political landscape continues to evolve as it grapples with a range of issues including crime and corruption, housing, poverty, and unemployment. Notable considerations include battling persistent poverty, improving the quality of public services, and developing a green energy strategy.