Prime Minister Declares Jamaica a Threatened Area Under the Disaster Risk Management Act; Trade Order Issued to Prevent Price Gouging During Tropical Storm Melissa
The Government of Jamaica advises that, acting on the advice of the Office of Disaster Preparedness and Emergency Management (ODPEM) and the Minister of Local Government and Community Development, the Prime Minister has today (October 24, 2025) issued an Order pursuant to section 26(2) of the Disaster Risk Management Act.
Under this Order, the whole of Jamaica is declared to be a threatened area due to the potential impact of Tropical Storm Melissa, which poses a significant threat to the island. This declaration empowers the Government to implement precautionary and protective measures to safeguard lives, property, and critical infrastructure.
In conjunction with this declaration, and in accordance with section 8(1) of the Trade Act, the Minister of Industry, Investment and Commerce has issued The Trade (Sale of Goods During Period of Declaration of Threatened Area) (Tropical Storm Melissa) Order, 2025.
This Order, which also takes effect today, prohibits retailers from increasing the prices of essential goods—including food, water, medical supplies, personal care items, building materials, and emergency equipment—for the duration of the declared period. Violations of this Order may attract penalties of up to one million dollars ($1,000,000) upon conviction before a Parish Court.
Prime Minister Holness reaffirmed the Government’s commitment to maintaining public order and protecting citizens during this period of heightened alert:
“By declaring Jamaica a threatened area, we are activating the legal tools to move resources quickly, safeguard critical services, and protect the most vulnerable. This declaration enables the Government to act swiftly and decisively. I have directed all agencies to execute their preparedness plans, including shelter readiness and the pre-positioning of supplies and equipment.”
Prime Minister Holness further added, “There will be zero tolerance for price gouging. The Trade Order sends a clear message that no one should profit from a potential disaster. We are taking every precaution to ensure that preparedness measures are in place and that citizens are not subject to exploitation during this time.”
The public is urged to intensify preparations and monitor official updates from the Meteorological Service of Jamaica and ODPEM, and to take all necessary precautions as the storm system approaches.