THE PROFILE of the typical Jamaican foundry is a small operation, using sand casting as the primary production method.
Local foundries have, for the most part, focused on industrial and domestic products such as manhole covers, fire hydrants and pots, particularly the much-loved Dutch pot, as well as rollers and other large machine parts for the sugar and bauxite industries. It is estimated that the majority of small foundries produce pots as their major product but there are a few companies also producing "non-traditional" items such as patio furniture and other consumer products.
Foundry technology has advanced significantly across the world and these developments have led to improved products, reduced costs, and safer, more environmentally friendly working conditions. However, most local foundry operations lag behind these international standards, both in terms of facilities and the products being manufactured. Smaller foundries use furnaces built from recycled materials and parts, made by the operators themselves. A large number use diesel, or reclaimed engine oil as the main fuel for firing the furnace.
STRATEGY
The Jamaica Business Development Centre (JBDC) has recognised an urgent need to formulate and execute a strategy geared to upgrade the Jamaican foundry industry, thereby making it more competitive, which would include the development of new products, such as decorative and utilitarian craft and gift items as well as household accessories.
Through the International Technical and Economic Cooperation (ITEC) Pro-gramme in the Ministry of External Affairs of the Government of India, an expert in foundry operations, Mr. K.K. Tiwari, who is Deputy Advisor (Industry) to the Indian government, has been assigned to JBDC for a fourth-month period to assist in the development of this strategy. Since his arrival in mid-February, the expert has completed an assessment of the capabilities and needs of several small foundries in the island and is currently formulating, in partnership with JBDC, a strategy for upgrading the industry through technology, product quality, new product development and environmental improvements.
TWO-DAY WORKSHOP
JBDC will host a two-day workshop for foundry operators and others interested in entering this industry at its Camp Road offices starting today, May 14. During the sessions attention will be given to key areas such as productivity improvement, foundry management, cost reduction, new production development and marketing penetration strategies.
