Jamaica Takes Part in Consultations on Various Aspects of CSME

  • Jamaica is participating in consultations on the implementation of various aspects of the CARICOM Single Market and Economy (CSME). The CSME was established to deepen regional integration, drive sustained economic development and build economic resilience within the Caribbean Community. Established under the Revised Treaty of Chaguaramas in 2001, the CSME seeks to create a single economic space allowing for the free movement of goods, services, capital, people, and the right of establishment.
  • Speaking at a recent Jamaica Information Service (JIS) Think Tank, Minister of Foreign Affairs and Foreign Trade, Senator the Hon. Kamina Johnson Smith, emphasised the technical efforts required for the process.
  • The CSME comprises several key components, including the free movement of goods that meet the rules of community origin without unauthorised barriers, the free movement of nationals across 12 categories without the need for work permits or visas and the right of CARICOM nationals to establish businesses in member states.
  • Senator Johnson Smith explained that the economic aspects, such as financial and monetary integration among member states, are advanced through meetings of the Council for Finance and Planning (COFAP). Meanwhile, regional health and social matters are addressed by the Council for Human and Social Development (COHSOD), and legal matters are handled by the Senior Officials of the Legal Affairs Committee (SOLAC).
  • At the last Heads of Government Conference, she said it was agreed that a three-year transitional period would be implemented to facilitate the necessary technical arrangements. “Jamaica will be a part of that,” she added.
  • Minister Johnson Smith said that during the transition to free movement, existing mechanisms, such as the CARICOM Skills Certificate regime, will remain in effect. This means that individuals seeking employment in other member states will still need to apply for a CARICOM Skills Certificate. However, she noted that efforts are underway to streamline and enhance the process, making it easier and more efficient for people to move and work easily.

(Source: JIS)