India and Jamaica share historical bonds dating to the 19th century when over 36,000 indentured labourers were brought to British Jamaica, two-thirds of whom remained permanently. Diplomatic relations were established on 12 August 1962. The relationship is characterised by shared Commonwealth membership, parliamentary democracy, cricket, and a vibrant ~70,000-strong Indian diaspora that forms roughly 3% of Jamaica's population.
COOPERATION AREAS
Where India and Jamaica actually work together
5 active areas of cooperation, as of July 2026. Click any card for the full brief.
TRADE & INVESTMENT
By the numbers
FY 2023-24 figures. Source: Ministry of Commerce, Government of India.
$116.6m
Total bilateral trade in goods
$109.2m
India exports to country
$7.5m
India imports from country
Trade trajectory · USD bn
$0.12bnin 2023-24 · click a bar to compare years
TOP TRADED ITEMS
AGREEMENTS & MILESTONES
The relationship since 1845, in 8 dates
CURRENT STATE
Where things stand, 2026
India-Jamaica relations are warm and functional, anchored in diaspora ties and Commonwealth membership. The relationship operates at modest institutional depth — regular FOC rounds, ITEC capacity building, and cultural exchanges — rather than strategic partnership level. The opening of Jamaica's resident Mission in New Delhi in 2020-21 and President Kovind's 2022 visit gave the relationship an institutional boost. Trade is growing but small. The primary growth levers are pharmaceuticals, IT, and tourism.
