Browse Data and Analysis

The Caribbean Basin region continues to experience growth, driven primarily by the steady rise in tourism, which in turn impacts consumer demand.

In 2024, French imports of U.S. food and agricultural products reached approximately $1.05 billion, reflecting modest growth.

In 2024, the United States retained its position as the leading exporter of agricultural and related products to Jamaica, exporting approximately $650 million in bulk, intermediate, and consumer-oriented goods.

Production for Jamaica sugar is projected to fall to 33,000 metric tons (MT) for marketing year (MY) October 2025 to September 2026, consistent with the ongoing downward trend observed in the industry.

The French food processing industry mobilizes more than 19,000 companies, of which nearly 98 percent are small- and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). The sector generates $177 billion in annual revenue, and it indirectly contributes to nearly 2 million jobs in France.

This report highlights the food processing industry, its drivers, key players, and market landscape in the Caribbean Basin. The region relies heavily on imports, and the United States is the largest supplier of food ingredients.

Jamaica’s pork market is valued at an estimated $40 million per year. While domestic production meets household and retail demand, it falls short of supplying the total market.

As a member of the European Union, France implements EU regulations for the import of animal and plant products.

France, as a member of the European Union (EU), generally follows EU directives, regulations, and obligations. This report focuses on food laws in force in France that cover areas which are not EU harmonized.

France's agricultural biotechnology sector is constrained by strict regulations and public opposition, despite the scientific community's support and the growing interest in NBTs. The dialogue on agricultural innovation and food security is evolving, driven by climate change and geopolitical factors, but significant challenges remain.

The hotel, restaurant, and institutional (HRI) sector in Jamaica continues to thrive, driven by a rapidly expanding tourism sector. In 2023, global agricultural exports to Jamaica slightly exceeded $1 billion with the United States supplying $606 million of that total.

In 2023, the agri-food market in France was still impacted by inflation, recorded at 3.8 percent. Price increases most severely impacted the lower income strata of society and cut into their ability to purchase. Many consumers are still moving away from big brands to less expensive distributor brands.