Jamaica achieved its lowest unemployment rate ever recorded when the figure fell to 3.3 percent during April 2025. The Statistical Institute of Jamaica announced this historic milestone through its recent Labour Force Survey on Tuesday. Economic data revealed a substantial decline from the previous year's 4.2 percent rate. Employment gains reached 24,200 additional workers compared to April 2024 figures. The nation's job market demonstrated remarkable strength across multiple economic sectors.
Women drove the employment surge by securing 16,800 new positions while men obtained 7,300 additional jobs. Services and Sales Workers represented the largest occupational category for growth, with more than 21,000 new hires. The Public Administration and Defence sectors contributed over 8,000 fresh employment opportunities. The total labour force expanded to 1.49 million people, with approximately 1.44 million holding active employment. Workers between the ages of 25 and 54 comprised nearly 68 percent of the employed population.
Youth joblessness decreased significantly, as 9,800 fewer young people remained without work compared to the previous year. Both male and female unemployment dropped by more than 6,000 individuals each across all age demographics. Underemployment rates also declined while fewer people opted to remain outside the workforce entirely. The survey was conducted during the second quarter of 2025, with a specific focus on the period from April 6 to 12. Officials interpreted these statistics as evidence of robust economic momentum, particularly within female workforce participation and government sector hiring.
Women drove the employment surge by securing 16,800 new positions while men obtained 7,300 additional jobs. Services and Sales Workers represented the largest occupational category for growth, with more than 21,000 new hires. The Public Administration and Defence sectors contributed over 8,000 fresh employment opportunities. The total labour force expanded to 1.49 million people, with approximately 1.44 million holding active employment. Workers between the ages of 25 and 54 comprised nearly 68 percent of the employed population.
Youth joblessness decreased significantly, as 9,800 fewer young people remained without work compared to the previous year. Both male and female unemployment dropped by more than 6,000 individuals each across all age demographics. Underemployment rates also declined while fewer people opted to remain outside the workforce entirely. The survey was conducted during the second quarter of 2025, with a specific focus on the period from April 6 to 12. Officials interpreted these statistics as evidence of robust economic momentum, particularly within female workforce participation and government sector hiring.
