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Jamaica Investment Incentives Guide

Jamaica offers a range of investment incentives to attract foreign and domestic capital, including Special Economic Zones (SEZ) with 0% CIT for 10 years, tourism sector incentives (5% CIT on certain activities), BPO sector relief, and film industry tax credits. Administered by JAMPRO (Jamaica Promotions Corporation).

For related guidance, see our Corporate Tax Guide → and Cross-Border Guide →.

Special Economic Zones (SEZ)

  • 0% CIT for the first 10 years of operation within a designated SEZ.
  • Reduced CIT rate of 10% for years 11–15, and 15% thereafter (subject to legislation).
  • Exemption from GCT on qualifying imports and local purchases.
  • Exemption from customs duties on machinery, equipment, and raw materials imported into the SEZ.
  • Sectors include manufacturing, logistics, information technology, call centers, and light assembly.
  • SEZ developers and tenants must be licensed by the SEZ Authority.
  • Additional incentives for developers constructing SEZ parks and infrastructure.

Tourism Incentives

  • 5% CIT for qualifying tourism enterprises (under the Tourism Incentives Act).
  • Eligible activities: hotels, resort accommodations, tour operators, attractions, and tourism transport.
  • Import duty exemption on equipment, furniture, and supplies for approved tourism projects.
  • GCT exemption on certain tourism-related imports.
  • Qualifying period: up to 10 years from the start of operations (renewable).
  • Properties must be registered with the Jamaica Tourist Board (JTB).

BPO (Business Process Outsourcing) Incentives

  • Tax relief for BPO companies establishing operations in Jamaica.
  • Exemption from customs duties on computer equipment, telecommunications gear, and office furniture.
  • GCT relief on qualifying imports and local purchases.
  • Access to HEART/NTA training grants for workforce development.
  • BPO parks may qualify for SEZ status, unlocking additional CIT relief.

Film Industry Incentives

  • Film tax credit of up to 30% of qualifying production expenditures incurred in Jamaica.
  • Bonus credits for Jamaican cast, crew, and post-production work.
  • Exemption from GCT and customs duties on film production equipment imported temporarily.
  • Administered by JAMPRO and the Jamaica Film Commission.
  • Qualifying productions must meet cultural and expenditure tests.

Other Incentives

  • Manufacturing: Duty relief on raw materials and capital equipment under the Industrial Incentives Act.
  • Agriculture: Tax concessions for agro-processing, greenhouse farming, and export-oriented agriculture.
  • Renewable energy: Import duty exemptions and GCT relief on renewable energy equipment (solar, wind, biomass).
  • Export: Zero-rating for GCT on exports, duty drawbacks on imported inputs used in exported goods.

Key Takeaways

  • SEZ: 0% CIT for 10 years, GCT and customs duty exemptions.
  • Tourism: 5% CIT for eligible hotels and attractions.
  • BPO: Duty and GCT relief, HEART training grants.
  • Film: Up to 30% tax credit on qualifying production spend.
  • Apply through JAMPRO for most incentive programs.