Jamaica is to embark on the large scale production of bamboo for the construction of low-cost houses and value added products such as furniture and charcoal for the export market.
The aim is to tap into the global market for bamboo products, which is estimated at 10 billion US dollars, with potential to reach 20 billion by next year.
The project is being spearheaded by the Bureau of Standards Jamaica (BSJ), and involves collaboration with the Bamboo and Indigenous Materials Advisory Council a national committee with public and private sector involvement.
Special Projects Director at the BSJ, Gladstone Rose, says technologies provided by international partners will help Jamaica in maximising the potential of bamboo.
In the meantime, Mr. Rose says the Bureau of Standards is training persons to be employed in the bamboo industry.
It will continue until the end of November.
Three bamboo factories will also be set up across the island.
The Bureau of Standards is ensuring that persons can grow, preserve and harvest bamboo for its various uses.
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