President of the Jamaica Manufacturers and Exporters Association (JMEA) Sydney Thwaites, says challenges are anticipated with the new import taxes being imposed by the United States.

This comes after yesterday’s unveiling by U.S. President Donald Trump, of plans for new import taxes on all goods entering the country with a baseline tariff on all imports of at least 10%.

The 10% tariffs are expected to come into effect on April 5 with the higher duties starting on April 9.

There is uncertainty among Jamaican manufacturers about how the new import taxes introduced by the United States will be implemented.

Mr. Thwaites explains that Jamaican goods sold in the U.S. market will be more costly.

Mr. Thwaites says JMEA members also expect new opportunities arising from challenges, which will come with the increased import tax in the U.S.