The Jamaica Hotel and Tourist Association (JHTA) has joined the calls for meaningful consultation before any adjustment to the minimum wage.

On Sunday, the Jamaica Labour Party said if it is returned to power after the election tomorrow, it would increase the minimum wage from $16,000 to $18,500 in the first budget, then gradually raise it to $32,000 over the next few years.

There have been mixed views among citizens and members of the business community and concerns over whether or not proper dialogue is being conducted with key stakeholders on the issue.

JHTA President, Christopher Jarrett, explains that tourism accounts for approximately one-third of Jamaica’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP) and is one of the country’s largest employers.

He says any shift in wage policy will have wide-ranging implications for the sector, including employment levels, competitiveness and the affordability of the Jamaican tourism product in a highly competitive global marketplace.

Mr. Jarrett points out that the Minimum Wage Advisory Commission and the law already provide for an established consultative process involving the government, trade unions, private sector, civil society and academia.

He says this framework must be utilized to ensure transparency, fairness, and balance in decision-making.