Remittances inch up

Remittances is an important source of foreign currency for Jamaica and many parts of the Caribbean basin countries. The data made public by Bank of Jamaica for the year to September reflects moderate growth.

Net remittances for January to September 2013 were US$1 349 million, which represented a growth of US$23 million or 1.7 per cent relative to 2012. The outturn reflects an increase in gross remittance inflows and a contraction in outflows. Total remittance inflows were US$1,532 million, an increase of US$7 million.

What the report has failed to indicate that the lower than normal growth is not necessarily an indication of worsening economic conditions in the source countries. In fact North America, from which the bulk of flows emanate, has been showing growth in the economy.

Limited studies done by the Investors Choice going back to 2008-09 indicates a strong correlation between exchange instability of the Jamaican dollar with a reduction in inflows. It should come as no surprise that some funds that would normally flow into the formal system have in fact been diverted thus reflecting what may be considered lower inflows. In the first 4 months of 2013 when there was scarcity of foreign exchange in the system, remittances actually declined compared with 2012, while in 2012 for the same period, remittance increased during a period when foreign exchange was easily available.