Jamaica’s mining sector fuels economic growth with $612 million earnings from bauxite, alumina exports

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Jamaica’s government said the mining sector remains a major contributor to the national economy, accounting for around 2 per cent of GDP while generating roughly 85 per cent of the country’s traditional export earnings.

Speaking during the 2026/27 Sectoral Debate in Parliament, Floyd Green said export earnings from Jamaica’s bauxite and alumina sector reached USD 612 million in 2025. He added that investment in the mining sector increased from USD 251 million to USD 326 million last year.

Green said the sector continues to attract investment despite operational disruptions caused by Hurricane Melissa, which affected mining infrastructure and production capacity in late 2025.

According to the minister, Windalco completed a new haulage road project in St. Ann worth around USD 29 million, opening access to additional high-grade ore deposits.

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Atlantic Alumina also entered a strategic partnership linked to operations in Louisiana valued at around USD 450 million, while Discovery Bauxite is investing USD 45 million this year into road construction, maintenance upgrades and heavy equipment purchases.

Green also said Century Aluminum has invested approximately USD 80 million into upgrades at the Jamalco refinery, including installation of a new turbine generator aimed at improving energy self-sufficiency.

The Jamaican government is also planning discussions with Jiuquan Iron and Steel Company regarding the future of the Alpart alumina plant in St. Elizabeth, including possible reopening plans.

Beyond industrial investment, the government said it is continuing efforts to strengthen mining communities through education, healthcare, water infrastructure and local development programmes.

Phase VIII of Jamaica’s Bauxite Community Development Programme has now been approved, including funding allocations for schools, healthcare projects and water infrastructure in mining regions.

The government also announced plans to expand scholarship support for students in bauxite-producing parishes studying subjects such as science, engineering and logistics.

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