Letter of the Day | Time to shift focus: growth, not just debt reduction

THE EDITOR, Madam:

Jamaica has spent the past decade earning a global reputation for fiscal discipline. With the support of the Economic Programme Oversight Committee (EPOC) and the sacrifices of our people, we are finally approaching the 60 per cent debt-to-GDP ratio – an achievement many thought impossible. But now that we have this hard-earned fiscal space, the question becomes: what will we do with it? Continuing to aggressively reduce debt without focusing on growth is shortsighted. Yes, debt reduction brought us credibility and stability. But credibility is not an end in itself. Our focus must now shift to creating opportunities, building productivity, and unleashing Jamaica’s growth potential. A growing economy can reduce debt far more sustainably than austerity ever could.

The time has come for the Government to adopt a new strategy – one that balances prudent debt management with bold investment in Jamaica’s future. If we do not act now to increase productivity and economic participation, we will simply remain in a low-growth, high-poverty trap. We must pivot from viewing debt as the enemy to understanding that smart borrowing, when well spent, can become a tool for transformation.

A key area needing urgent reform is the Government’s procurement system. The inefficiencies in public procurement have become a silent obstacle to national development. Whether it’s acquiring equipment for law enforcement, upgrading school facilities, or expanding hospital capacity, delays in procurement prevent timely action. Even when funds are available, the system often moves too slowly to respond to real-world needs.

We can no longer afford a procurement culture built on caution and red tape. A modern Jamaican state needs a procurement framework that is agile, transparent, and mission-driven. It should be designed to move fast, prevent waste, and prioritise value for money– while also enabling local capacity and innovation. Jamaica has skilled people. What we need is the structure to employ them effectively.

Instead of relying so heavily on external donors and imported solutions, we should invest in building up our own domestic capabilities. That includes training our people, buying our own equipment, and executing our own projects. This will not only stimulate economic activity but also build national resilience.

These changes can only happen through a renewed social consensus. The same political will that brought about fiscal discipline must now be applied to growth. We need consensus on energy policy, tax reform, labour market flexibility, land titling, and justice reform. Without tackling these systemic issues, poverty will persist – no matter how low our debt falls. Jamaica has a chance to transition from survival mode to a growth agenda. Let’s not waste this opportunity. The Government must lead the charge to balance fiscal responsibility with strategic investment – and revamp our procurement programme to make every dollar count.

ROBERT DALLEY

opinionwriter300@mailfence.

com