October 22, 2026

PSOJ joins in expressing concern about request by NWC for 51% tariff increase

The Private Sector Organisation of Jamaica (PSOJ) has joined in expressing concern about the request by the National Water Commission (NWC) for a 51 per cent tariff increase.

The application was submitted to the Office of Utilities Regulation (OUR), which is reviewing the matter.

The NWC explained that the increase is necessary to cover its operating expenses and finance priority investments.

Already, the request has drawn reactions from the opposition, small businesses and hoteliers, with calls for the OUR to reject the application while citing added pressure on households and businesses struggling with the high cost of living.

PSOJ Executive Director, Sacha Vaccianna Riley, acknowledged the fiscal challenges of the NWC, but stressed that an increase cannot be granted without clear conditions and accountability.

She said if an increase is granted, it should be phased.