Jamaica has excellent prospects in the non-metallic mineral sector, which offer several lucrative opportunities in trade and investments. Jamaica is noted for its bauxite both in its crude form and that converted to alumina. However, a large and significant concentration of high purity limestone reserves, marble, riverstone, gypsum and anhydrite deposits are complimented by numerous mineral springs across the island. Suitable clays are also readily available in Jamaica to produce commercial quantities of fine ceramics and building components. Economic quantities of gold are also present in central Jamaica in the parish of Clarendon. Mining began in early 2000 and since March 2001, over 1,000 ounces of this precious metal has been exported.

There are some major advantages to be gained from activities in this sector:

• the accessibility of mineral resources through surface mining;
• the strategic location to the large export markets of the world;
• trade being facilitated through multilateral and bilateral agreements.

The chemical sector in Jamaica is mainly distributive in nature, with a few manufacturers of bulk industrial chemicals, e.g. sulphuric acid, acetylene, sodium chloride, etc.

The tropical marine climate of Jamaica coupled with strong ocean currents and consistent wind pattern in various areas of Jamaica, make the exploitation of alternate sources of energy a realistic goal and prime investment opportunity. Areas being exploited include wind, solar, hydro-power and biomass, amongst others.