Hurricane Melissa Continues to Weigh on Labour Market

• Data released by the Statistical Institute of Jamaica (STATIN) shows the unemployment rate increased to 3.7% in April 2026 from 3.3% in April 2025, reflecting a rise in the number of unemployed persons alongside weaker labour market conditions.
• Jamaica's labour force declined to 1,473,900 persons, with the labour force participation rate falling to 68.4% from 69.3% a year earlier. The reduction was driven by declines in both the male and female labour force, signalling lower participation in economic activity.
• Total employment fell by 1.8% to 1,418,800 persons. Male employment declined by 1.1%, female employment by 2.5%, while youth employment recorded a sharper 9.1% decline, highlighting continued weakness among younger workers.
• The number of unemployed persons increased by 10.0% to 55,000, contributing to the higher unemployment rate. Youth unemployment also worsened, rising to 21,000 persons, with the youth unemployment rate increasing to 11.7%.
• The number of persons outside the labour force increased by 20,500 to 681,900, with increases recorded among both males and females, reinforcing the trend of reduced labour force participation.
• The April 2026 labour market results continue to reflect the lingering effects of Hurricane Melissa, particularly across Jamaica's western parishes. Disruptions to economic activity likely contributed to lower employment, weaker labour force participation, and higher unemployment, indicating that the labour market remains under pressure during the recovery period.

(Sources: STATIN & NCBCM Research)