MONTEGO BAY, Jamaica — In a significant economic development move, Montego Bay Free Zone (MBFZ) Chairman Mark Hart has endorsed the Jamaican Government’s strategic initiative to relocate business process outsourcing (BPO) operations from the free zone to a specially designated area along the Montego Bay Perimeter Road. This transition aims to address infrastructure modernization challenges and enhance the country’s competitive positioning in the global BPO market.
Hart, who became one of the inaugural tenants when MBFZ launched in 1989, emphasized that current facilities no longer meet international standards compared to modern campuses emerging in Latin American competitors like Honduras and the Dominican Republic. He noted that these countries have developed sophisticated BPO and light industrial complexes with superior amenities, creating urgent need for Jamaica to upgrade its infrastructure.
The chairman articulated his support during the Employment Creation Awards ceremony in Montego Bay, aligning with Prime Minister Andrew Holness’s vision outlined during the 2026/27 Budget debate. The government’s plan involves gradually transferring BPO and light industrial activities to purpose-built facilities along the emerging economic corridor of Montego Bay Perimeter Road.
Hart characterized the relocation as a ‘win-win’ scenario, explaining that the prime oceanfront property currently occupied by BPO operations could be repurposed for high-value resort development and mixed-use projects. Meanwhile, BPO facilities primarily require robust connectivity and road infrastructure rather than premium waterfront locations.
Prime Minister Holness envisions transforming the liberated Freeport peninsula into a landmark development featuring commercial, retail, and premium residential spaces integrated into Montego Bay’s urban landscape. The centerpiece would be a performing arts theater dedicated to showcasing Jamaican music, folklore, and cultural heritage globally, drawing inspiration from Miami’s celebrated Brickell waterfront.
Reflecting on MBFZ’s evolution from sportswear manufacturing and basic data processing four decades ago to today’s complex digital operations, Hart emphasized the critical need for advanced facilities to meet sophisticated client requirements. Modern BPO services now encompass complex customer support solutions, financial transactions, healthcare services, and software development—all demanding state-of-the-art infrastructure.
The chairman also highlighted the imperative to prepare for artificial intelligence integration, noting that while AI’s full impact remains uncertain, it presents substantial opportunities for upskilling and service enhancement rather than wholesale job displacement. Hart urged proactive investment in both physical infrastructure and workforce development to attract companies seeking AI-ready operational environments.