Economic Independence demands sticking to fiscal and monetary discipline

The vision of economic independence is not unattainable. Jamaica, over the last decade, has made some strong structural, fiscal and monetary transformation towards building a stronger and more resilient economic system.

Minister of Finance and the Public Service Dr Nigel Clarke has proffered the bold vision of seeking economic independence for Jamaica in this its 56th year of political independence. Since his speech to the labour market forum on April 11, 2018, commentators have been proffering various views on whether or not this vision can be achieved. However, what has been missing from the debate is a clear understanding of what economic independence means and what preconditions are necessary to achieve same. This article offers some thoughts on the missing pieces.

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