ABOUT JAMAICA
 Jamaica is the third largest island in the Caribbean and the largest English-speaking island with an area of 10,991 km2. It is located 18o North of the Equator and between 76 ° - 78 ° West (approximately 145 km south of Cuba, 965km south of Florida, 160km southwest of Haiti). The population of just under 2.7 million comprises persons from several ethnic backgrounds including those of African, Indian, Chinese, Jewish, Caucasian, Mixed and Middle Eastern origin. This strong sense of Jamaican identity shared by all these gives meaning to the National Motto, “Out of Many, One People.”
Jamaica gained independence from Great Britain on August 6, 1962 and has prided itself on establishing a stable constitutional parliamentary democracy since then. Successive governments have worked on building the economic and social fabric of Jamaica to ensure the development of the country.
Jamaica’s main economic activities are tourism, agriculture and bauxite mining. Of importance also is the service sector, as well as the flow of remittances from the large and active Jamaican Diaspora across the world. With an annual growth rate of over 2% and a GDP of US $9.86 billion, Jamaica is ripe for investment and continued growth and development.
 From its pristine beaches and rugged coastline, through the lush plains and rushing rivers, to its mountainous and forested inlands rising to the 2,256m Blue Mountain Peak, Jamaica’s natural beauty and diversity makes it a prime destination for visitors of every kind. There is something for everyone in Jamaica. The Jamaican culture is known the world over. Our food, art, athletes and music have given Jamaica global acclaim. Reggae music, including its ancestors like Rock Steady and its off spring like Dancehall, Reggaeton and Garage, has taken the world by storm.
Jamaica goes so far beyond music and dance though. The pride and joy of being Jamaican tends to bring out the very best in its people. Looking at the history, the development of the people and the birth of the true Jamaican identity with all its complexities and peculiarities brings the onlooker to an understanding of what that product Jamaica really is. Every Jamaican plays a part in crafting the special brand of Jamaican tourism. Whether for a short stop over or a long haul stay, a visit to Jamaica is a must-do occasion.
 Jamaica has an active political climate both internally and internationally. On the world stage, Jamaica is active in a number of organisations such as the UN, OAS, Commonwealth, NAM, G77 & China, ACP and others. Despite its small size and limited resources, Jamaica has been, and remains, committed to active participation in international fora to help bring about a more just and equitable international society.
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