A Silicon Mountain Project – Artificial Intelligence Summit 2025, Silicon Mountain Mandeville Manchester Jamaica. October 1-3 2025.

2025 Event Theme: “Harnessing Generative AI: Revolutionizing Logistics, Fulfillment, Ecommerce and Transportation Across the Caribbean’s Digital Future.”

Event Structure: • Duration: 2 days   • Format: In-person   • Sessions: 4 thematic segments, each featuring a keynote presentation followed by two panel discussions

Key Features of CARIBIZTECH:

Expert Keynotes & Panels: Industry leaders from across the Caribbean and beyond will share insights on AI and its impact on, Logistics, Fulfillment, and Transportation, Fintech Innovations and Mobile Payments, E-commerce, Voice Commerce, and Social Commerce cybersecurity, cloud computing, and other emerging technologies.

Startup Ecosystem & Pitch Competitions: CARIBIZTECH will feature a showcase for startups to pitch their ideas, enabling entrepreneurs to connect with venture capitalists and investors.

Workshops & Training: Participants will engage in hands-on sessions aimed at upskilling in areas like blockchain, data science, and AI.

Networking & Collaboration Hubs: CARIBIZTECH will create spaces for participants to build partnerships, echoing the community-building focus of the event.

Celebration of Regional Talent: A special emphasis will be placed on spotlighting Caribbean-born innovators and fostering collaboration between local and international stakeholders.

Impact Goals:

1. Foster a thriving tech ecosystem in Mandeville Central Jamaica.
2. Attract global attention and investment to Silicon Mountain.
3. Cultivate a culture of innovation and collaboration across the region.

Day 1:

Session 1: Revolutionizing Logistics, Fulfillment, and Transportation with Generative AI

• Keynote Presentation: “AI-Driven Logistics: Navigating the Future of Caribbean Transportation” Overview: Examine how Generative AI is optimizing supply chains, enhancing delivery systems, and transforming transportation networks in the Caribbean.

• Panel Discussion 1: “Smart Ports and AI: Enhancing Maritime Logistics” Overview: Explore the integration of AI in port operations to improve efficiency and security.

• Panel Discussion 2: “AI in Urban Mobility: Redefining Public Transportation” Overview: Discuss AI applications in public transit systems to enhance commuter experiences.

Session 2: The Evolution of Commerce: E-commerce, Voice Commerce, and Social Commerce in the Age of AI

• Keynote Presentation: “Voice-Activated Shopping: The Next Frontier in Caribbean Retail” Overview: Delve into how AI-powered voice commerce is reshaping consumer interactions and purchasing behaviours.

• Panel Discussion 1: “Social Commerce Strategies: Leveraging AI for Business Growth” Overview: Discuss how businesses can utilize AI to enhance social media-driven sales.

• Panel Discussion 2: “AI Personalization in E-commerce: Enhancing Customer Experience” Overview: Examine AI’s role in creating personalized shopping experiences to boost customer satisfaction and loyalty.

Day 2:

Session 3: Fintech Innovations: Redefining Mobile Payments with Generative AI

• Keynote Presentation: “AI-Powered Fintech: Revolutionizing Mobile Payments in the Caribbean” Overview: Explore how Generative AI is enhancing security, efficiency, and accessibility in mobile payment solutions.

• Panel Discussion 1: “Blockchain and AI: Securing the Future of Digital Transactions” Overview: Discuss the convergence of AI and blockchain technologies in creating secure payment ecosystems.

• Panel Discussion 2: “Financial Inclusion through AI: Expanding Access to Banking Services” Overview: Examine how AI-driven mobile payment solutions are promoting financial inclusion in underserved communities.

Session 4: Generative AI: Shaping the Future of Technology and Business

• Keynote Presentation: “The Creative Machine: Unleashing the Potential of Generative AI” Overview: Provide an in-depth understanding of Generative AI and its broad applications across various industries.

• Panel Discussion 1: “Ethical Considerations in AI: Balancing Innovation and Responsibility” Overview: Discuss the ethical implications of AI development and deployment, emphasizing responsible innovation.

• Panel Discussion 2: “AI and the Future Workforce: Preparing for Emerging Opportunities” Overview: Explore how AI is transforming job markets and the skills required for future employment.

Day 3: Additional Features to Enhance Appeal (Optional)

Caribiztech 2025 aims to provide a comprehensive and engaging experience that addresses the latest trends and opportunities in Generative AI, tailored to the Caribbean context.

Startup Showcase: An Exhibition area where emerging tech startups can present their AI-driven solutions, fostering networking and investment opportunities.   Workshops and Masterclasses: Interactive sessions providing hands-on experience with AI tools and technologies, tailored for different expertise levels.  Networking Events: Organized meetups, including a welcome reception and closing gala, to facilitate connections among attendees.

Diversity and Inclusion Panels: Discussions focused on promoting inclusivity within the tech industry, ensuring diverse perspectives in AI development.

Knights$Angels Investor Pitch Sessions:

Opportunities for entrepreneurs to pitch their AI-based business ideas to potential investors, encouraging funding and collaboration.   “Knights$Angels” is an exciting, high-stakes 60-minute made-for-TV program that brings the world of investment to life by providing exclusive insight into the real-world decision-making processes of investors and how entrepreneurs pitch their ideas.   The show aims to transform how investment is perceived in the Caribbean, focusing on providing a clear understanding of how deals are made and what it truly takes to secure investment.   The programme will specifically focus on Technology and Generative Artificial Intelligence (AI), covering emerging areas like Voice Commerce, Transportation and Logistics, and related tech trends that are shaping the future. Entrepreneurs with innovative ideas in these fields will have the unique opportunity to pitch to investors who are ready to commit capital to fuel the growth of these high-potential ventures.

 Official Event Organisers : 360 Signature Events is an AMK Communications Limited Company. Operating from “Silicon Mountain – The Business Technology and Innovation Hub of the Caribbean” Mandeville Manchester Jamaica. 360 Signature Events, specializes in organizing Exhibitions, Conventions, Conferences, Seminars, Sporting and Hospitality Events, Road Shows, Brand Promotions, Product Launches, Incentive Programs, and other Special Events. Let us help you make your next event extraordinary. To learn more, check the following link: www.amkcom.com, 360signatureevents@gmail.com

Jamaica’s total spending on imports for the period January to August 2024, were valued at US$4,949.2 million, while earnings from total exports were
valued at US$1,195.9 million as released today by the Statistical Institute of Jamaica (STATIN).

The value of imports was 2.6 per cent lower than the US$5,079.5 million spent for the January to August 2023 period. This decline was largely attributable to lower imports of Raw Materials/Intermediate Goods and Fuels and Lubricant, which fell by 12.7 per cent and 1.9 per cent, respectively.

Revenue from total exports declined by 13.8 per cent over the review period when compared to the US$1,387.3 million earned for January to August 2023. This was due primarily to a 60.5 per cent fall in the value of re-exports. However, earnings from domestic exports for the 2024 review period increased by 1.1 per cent to US$1,062.9 million, due to an 8.7 per cent rise in the value of exports from the Mining and Quarrying industry.

MAIN TRADING PARTNERS
The five main trading import partners for the period January to August 2024 were the United States of America (USA), China, Brazil, Japan and Colombia. Expenditure on imports of goods from these countries fell by 3.8 per cent to US$2,995.8 million when compared to US$3,115.0 million recorded in the same period of 2023. This decrease was largely due to a 5.9 per cent fall in imports of “Mineral Fuels”.

The top five destinations for Jamaica’s exports were the USA, the Russia Federation, Iceland, the Netherlands and Canada. The value of total exports to these countries increased by 10.3per cent to US$843.4 million due mainly to a 49.5 per cent increase in the value of exports of “Crude Materials”.

The International Merchandise Trade Bulletin outlines additional information on Jamaica’s international trade activities. The August 2024 International Merchandise Trade Bulletin is available on the Statistical Institute of Jamaica’s website www.statinja.gov.jm or from the Information Section of the Institute at (876)-630-1626. Visit the Institute’s Facebook and Instagram pages @STATINJA for the August 2024 IMT infographics.

About Us: The Statistical Institute of Jamaica is the National Statistics Office and the leading provider of official statistics on the country’s economic, social, demographic, and environmental conditions. The Institute periodically releases monthly, quarterly, and annual products such as Gross Domestic Product (GDP), inflation rate, international merchandise trade, social and population statistics. STATIN is dedicated to delivering accurate, comprehensive, and timely data that supports informed decision-making and aligns with the Institute’s mission.

Output prices for producers in the Mining and Quarrying industry increased by 0.2 per cent for November 2024, while the Manufacturing industry remained relatively unchanged as released today by the Statistical Institute of Jamaica (STATIN).

The movement in the Mining and Quarrying industry was attributed to a similar 0.2 per cent increase in the index for the major group ‘Bauxite Mining & Alumina Processing’.

For the Manufacturing industry, there was a decline of 2.2 per cent in the index for the major group ‘Refined Petroleum Products’ driven by lower international petroleum prices, while there was a 0.5 per cent increase in the index for the heaviest weighted major group, ‘Food, Beverages & Tobacco’.

For the period November 2023 – November 2024, the point-to-point index for the Mining & Quarrying industry increased by 8.8 per cent.

This was mainly due to an increase of 9.0 per cent in the index for the major group ‘Bauxite Mining & Alumina Processing’.

The point-to-point index for the Manufacturing industry increased by 0.3 per cent, contributing to this was a 3.3 per cent increase in the index for the major group ‘Food, Beverages & Tobacco’.

However, the industry’s overall increase was tempered by a 10.7 per cent decline in the index for the major group ‘Refined Petroleum Products’.

The November 2024 Producer Price Index Bulletin provides additional information on the movement of producers’ prices and is available on STATIN’s website www.statinja.gov.jm or from the Information Section of STATIN at (876) 630-1619.

Visit the Institute’s Facebook and Instagram pages @STATINJA for the November 2024 PPI infographic.

The average exchange rate for the previous month was used in calculating the PPI for the current period.

The assumption is that producers would not have purchased their raw materials in the current month.

About Us: The Statistical Institute of Jamaica is the National Statistics Office and the leading provider of official statistics on the country’s economic, social, demographic, and environmental conditions. The Institute periodically releases monthly, quarterly, and annual products such as Gross Domestic Product (GDP), inflation rate, international merchandise trade, social and population statistics. STATIN is dedicated to delivering accurate, comprehensive, and timely data that supports informed decision-making and aligns with the Institute’s mission.

Effective April 1, 2025, the Jamaica Special Economic Zone Authority (JSEZA) will revise the Special Economic Zone (SEZ) framework to make provisions for the elimination of annual renewals of SEZ Operating Certificates for Developers and Occupants.

Under the revised framework, Operating Certificates for Developers will now extend for the duration of the licence agreement, while Occupants’ certificates will match the length of their subconcession terms.

By removing the annual renewal process, JSEZA is committed to reducing administrative burdens, promoting investment stability, and fostering increased productivity within the SEZ ecosystem.

The Authority’s Chief Executive Officer (CEO), Kelli-Dawn Hamilton, informed JIS News that “our goal is to create a conducive business environment where SEZ operators can focus on growth and long-term success, and by streamlining the licensing process, we are empowering businesses to thrive without the interruption of yearly renewals”.

Mrs. Hamilton added that this amendment is part of an overarching review of the SEZ regime, aimed at making it more adaptable and responsive to private-sector needs.

“Our focus is on innovation, productivity, and ensuring that the SEZ ecosystem remains robust and well-equipped to meet the evolving needs of stakeholders,” she explained.

The CEO pointed out that the SEZ regime has experienced remarkable growth, with 114 entities, including Developers, Single Entities, and Occupants, currently operating across 145 locations.

“Of these, 37 companies achieved SEZ designation within the past two years, contributing to a vibrant ecosystem of industries, such as Global Digital Services, Agro-Processing, Manufacturing, and Logistics,” she informed.

Collectively, these entities employ over 43,000 individuals and drive significant economic activity in Jamaica.

With this significant increase, JSEZA remains dedicated to improving operational efficiency and creating opportunities that extend beyond the Authority and business community to benefit the wider Jamaican economy.

“The future will be one of innovation and productivity as we strive to enhance SEZ contributions to Jamaica’s economy and the global community,” said Mrs. Hamilton.

By aligning Operating Certificates with the terms of existing agreements, the JSEZA is taking a key step towards operational efficiency, reducing bureaucratic hurdles, and reinforcing its commitment to fostering economic growth.

The new framework is also expected to enhance Jamaica’s position as a competitive destination for global investment and innovation.

For further details on the revised renewal framework and other initiatives, persons can visit the JSEZA website at https://www.jseza.com/.

By: Sherika Williams, JIS

The Jamaica Stock Exchange (“JSE”) announces that the Managing Director, Dr. Marlene Street Forrest, will continue to serve in her current capacity until the Board of Directors has successfully completed the recruitment process for her successor.The JSE Board and Dr. Marlene Street Forrest are committed to ensuring a smooth transition to maintain the integrity, stability and continued growth of the organization. The recruitment process is well underway, and the Board remains focused on selecting a candidate who will uphold the JSE’s legacy of innovation and excellence in capital market development.

VM Investments Limited (VMIL) advises that Mrs. Nicole Adamson, who held the post of  Manager, Research, Business Planning and Investor Relations at VMIL and VM Wealth Management Limited (VMWM), resigned from the company effective December 31, 2024.

The Board of Directors of Pan Jamaica Group Limited (‘PJG’) has confirmed that Stephen Facey and Jeffrey Hall will remain as Chairman, and Vice Chairman & Chief Executive Officer (‘CEO’) of PJG, respectively. PJG previously indicated its intention to name a successor to Mr. Hall as CEO and simultaneously to appoint Mr. Hall as Executive Chairman of PJG with effect from January 2025. The PJG Board has confirmed that both the company and the persons involved are completely satisfied with the current governance and executive leadership arrangements, and accordingly, the Board has elected to defer the planned succession.

Pan Jamaica Group Limited (‘PJG’) announces that Mr. Eric Scott, Deputy Chief Financial Officer will be leaving PJG to pursue other opportunities, effective March 31, 2025.

The Board of Directors of Derrimon Trading Company Limited (DTL) is pleased to announce the appointment of Ian C. Kelly, CD, as Chief Executive Officer effective January 1, 2025. Mr. Kelly, who joined Derrimon in 2011, most recently served as Group Chief Financial Officer, Executive Director, and Divisional Director at Sampars, Corporate Planner and Finance Director. Derrick Cotterell, the outgoing CEO and Chairman, will assume the role of Executive Chairman after 26 years of visionary leadership at the helm of the company. This leadership transition aligns with Derrimon’s robust corporate governance and strategic succession planning, ensuring the separation of the roles of CEO and Chairman. Mr. Kelly’s extensive accomplishments at Derrimon include spearheading the execution of many key mergers and acquisitions, the initial IPO in 2013 and negotiating and securing funding for Derrimon’s transformative projects, including the J$4.076 billion Additional Public Offering in 2021. His commitment to innovation and operational excellence positions him as a transformative leader for Derrimon’s next chapter.

Caribbean Assurance Brokers Limited advises of the resignation of Ms. Renee Edwards, Chief Financial Officer (CFO), effective December 12, 2024. Ms. Sheba Grant, the Chief Accountant, will now oversee the company’s financial operations.

Wigton Energy Limited (“WIG”) has advised that Dr. Wayne McKenzie, OD has been appointed an independent, non-executive Director on WIG’s Board of Directors effective December 16, 2024.

The Board of Directors of Seprod Limited is pleased to announce the appointment of Mr. A. Mark Hart to the Board effective November 27, 2024. Mr. Hart is the founder of Caribbean Producers (Jamaica) Limited and has served in the roles of Chief Executive Officer and Executive Chairman.

NCB Financial Group Limited (NCBFG) is pleased to announce that Mr Richard Look Kin will be appointed as Head of Group Risk Management for NCBFG and National Commercial Bank Jamaica Limited (NCBJ), effective December 4, 2024. Mr Look Kin replaces Ms Allison Wynter, Group Chief Risk Officer – NCBFG and Chief Risk Officer – NCBJ. Ms Wynter will continue to provide support through a transition period. Mr Look Kin has over two decades of experience in the financial services sector across the Caribbean including enterprise risk management, investment management and corporate and investment banking.

Dave Morrison has been appointed CEO of Advantage General Insurance Company Limited (AGIC). This became effective on December 1, 2024.
President & CEO of Sagicor Group Jamaica Limited and Chairman of AGIC, Christopher Zacca, says Mr. Morrison “comes with a keen vision to build on the strong legacy Advantage General has established over the years.

Scotia Group Jamaica Limited was recently assessed by the Bank of Jamaica and was awarded a license to operate, as a Financial Holding Company effective July 24, 2024;
Appointments:

➢ Anya Schnoor, Chair Scotia Group Jamaica Limited has been appointed to a new role, Executive Vice President, Global Insurance effective November 1, 2024. With this appointment Anya will provide strategic direction and oversight responsibilities to the Insurance Business within International Banking.

➢ Perrin Gayle, SVP Retail & Small Business has been appointed Acting Head of Retail Banking, Caribbean and Central America (CCA) effective November 1, 2024. With this expanded mandate Perrin will manage the execution of regional segment strategies and design in local markets with focus on client experience. He will also have oversight of the local market product platforms and digital performance, including overall accountability for performance measurement and salesforce compensation.

➢ Sabrina Cooper, SVP Wealth Management and CEO Scotia Investments Jamaica Limited has been appointed Regional Director, Brokerage, CCA, effective September 2, 2024. With this expanded role Sabrina will continue to lead the Wealth business in Jamaica and oversee accountability for offshore brokerage implementation within the Caribbean & Central America

➢ Debra Lopez-Spence, President Scotia Jamaica Life Insurance Company Limited has been appointed Regional Head Insurance, North & Central Region effective November 25, 2024. With this expanded mandate, Debra will also be responsible for providing strategic direction, leadership and oversight for the growth and profitability of the wider Caribbean Insurance business to support the strategic goals of Scotiabank’s Global Insurance business. Specifically, Debra will now oversee the markets within Caribbean North and Central, which includes Jamaica, Cayman, Turks & Caicos and Bahamas.

The Guardsman Group is pleased to announce the appointment of Nicholas Benjamin as Deputy Executive Chairman, effective September 24, 2024. With 16 years of experience across various roles in the organization and 12 years on our Board of Directors, Nicholas has demonstrated exemplary leadership, innovation, and a people-centered approach that aligns with Guardsman’s core values. David Whittaker as Deputy Group Managing Director, effective September 26, 2024. David’s remarkable journey with Guardsman began 16 years ago as Chief Internal Auditor, where he showcased exceptional skills in governance and risk management. His keen insights have driven significant improvements across our internal processes. David’s career progression, dedication, and vision make him an outstanding choice to lead us into the future. Tania Hall has been appointed Chief Operating Officer of Beryllium Limited, overseeing the day-to-day operations. Tania joined Guardsman Armoured in 2014 and has risen through the ranks with roles including Customer Service and Business Development Officer, CIT/ATM/Customer Service Manager, Senior Manager for Service Delivery, Vice President of Client Relations, and most recently, Senior Vice President. Sue-Ann Reid now serves as Group Vice President, International Markets, assuming leadership of our Eastern Caribbean entities. Sue-Ann joined the Guardsman Group in 2012 as Audit and Procurement Manager and later became Operations Manager for Guardsman Bahamas Limited. Her work has been pivotal in expanding our footprint across the region, laying the foundation for our strong presence in the Caribbean market. Kadeen Turnbull, who has been with Orkin Jamaica since 2016, has been promoted to General Manager. Her journey has been marked by her adaptability, ambition, and commitment to excellence, excelling in various roles, including Branch Manager in 2022, where she also managed MOPS. In her new role, Kadeen will lead both Orkin Jamaica and MOPS into their next phase of growth. Tamika Davis-Burrell promotion to Branch Manager of Orkin Jamaica and Masters of Property Sanitation (MOPS). With over 10 years of service in the Guardsman Group, Tamika has consistently demonstrated exceptional leadership, a commitment to teamwork, and a passion for fostering strong client relationships.