Every year on June 27, World SME Day reminds us of something we already know but don’t say loudly enough: small and medium-sized enterprises (SME) are the backbone of global economies. They represent approximately 90 per cent of businesses worldwide and account for roughly half of global gross domestic product (GDP). Here in Jamaica, that reality is vivid — an estimated 440,000 small businesses operate across the island, playing a vital role in supporting communities, creating livelihoods and driving economic growth.

But on this World SME Day, I want to speak directly to what the data is telling us — and what it means for the future of every small business in Jamaica.

Customers are ready. The question is whether businesses will meet them