Tiles export to Jamaica is growing rapidly as construction, tourism, and housing developments increase demand for imported ceramic and porcelain tiles. Jamaica is quickly becoming one of the Caribbean’s most promising destinations for ceramic and porcelain tile imports. Strong construction growth, expanding tourism projects, new housing developments, and commercial real estate activity are creating long-term opportunities for tile exporters, importers, distributors, and project buyers.
This comprehensive 2026 guide helps B2B buyers understand how to successfully export tiles to Jamaica. You’ll find practical information on import regulations, HS codes, logistics, popular tile sizes, climate considerations, quality expectations, and supplier selection. We’ll also explain how experienced exporters like Scalane International support reliable, compliant tile exports to Jamaica.
Why Jamaica Is a Strategic Market for Tile Exporters in 2026
Jamaica’s construction sector is entering a multi-year investment phase. Tourism expansion, housing programs, and private real estate development are driving this growth. Residential projects, resorts, hotels, retail spaces, and mixed-use developments are all increasing demand for imported ceramic and porcelain tiles—especially high-quality, moisture-resistant products that can handle tropical conditions.
Since local manufacturing capacity is limited, imports fill essential needs across multiple sectors: housing developments and government-backed projects, hospitality and resort construction, and commercial offices, retail outlets, and public buildings.
This dynamic has made tiles export to Jamaica a priority market for global manufacturers, particularly suppliers from India, China, Turkey, Spain, and Italy.
Jamaica Tiles Import Market Overview & Demand Outlook
Construction & Real Estate Growth Driving Tile Imports
Jamaica’s real estate sector continues showing strong momentum. Large resort developments, urban housing projects, and infrastructure upgrades are creating steady demand for floor tiles in residential and commercial spaces, wall tiles for bathrooms and kitchens, and outdoor and slip-resistant tiles for pools, patios, and balconies.
Tourism-led development remains a key driver. New hotels, resorts, and mixed-use projects require bulk tile procurement that meets international quality standards.
Ceramic & Porcelain Tiles Import Trends
While ceramic products maintain a steady share of Jamaica’s total imports, porcelain tiles are increasingly preferred for new projects. Buyers are shifting toward vitrified and glazed vitrified tiles (GVT/PGVT), large-format floor tiles, and digitally printed designs with marble, wood, and stone looks.
This trend reflects growing demand for durability, low maintenance, and modern aesthetics.
Read our blog on Porcelain vs Ceramic tiles
Import Duties, HS Codes & Taxes for Tiles in Jamaica
Ceramic & Porcelain Tiles HS Codes Used in Jamaica
Tiles imported into Jamaica are classified mainly under two categories:
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- HS 6907 – Unglazed ceramic tiles (wall, floor, paving)
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- HS 6908 – Glazed ceramic tiles
Sub-classifications distinguish between wall tiles, floor tiles, mosaics, and glazed versus unglazed products. Getting the HS classification right is critical for smooth customs clearance and accurate duty assessment.
Import Duty Structure Under CARICOM
Jamaica follows the CARICOM Common External Tariff, which applies to most construction materials. Here’s what importers need to know:
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- Customs duty applies based on product classification and origin
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- General Consumption Tax (GCT) applies on imports
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- Additional statutory charges include compliance and environmental levies
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- Goods originating within CARICOM may qualify for customs duty exemption with the appropriate C23 certificate, though local taxes still apply
Understanding the duty structure early helps importers estimate landed costs accurately and avoid clearance delays.
Tiles Import Regulations & Customs Clearance Process in Jamaica
Documents Required to Import Tiles into Jamaica
Good news: tiles are not on Jamaica’s restricted import list, so no import permit is required. However, complete documentation is essential. You’ll need a commercial invoice with detailed product description, Certificate of Origin, Bill of Lading or Airway Bill, packing list with batch numbers and production details, Customs Entry Declaration, and Tax Registration Number (TRN) with tax compliance documentation.
Errors or missing information can lead to inspections, delays, or storage charges.
Step-by-Step Tiles Import Process Timeline
The import process follows a logical sequence:
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- Pre-import planning – Confirm HS codes, taxes, and compliance requirements
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- Pre-arrival – Documentation prepared by freight forwarder or customs broker
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- Arrival – Cargo handling, warehousing, and inspection if required
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- Clearance & delivery – Duties and taxes paid, cargo released
Routine shipments typically clear quickly when documentation is accurate.
Key Regulatory Authorities Involved
Three main bodies oversee tile imports: the Jamaica Customs Agency handles customs clearance and enforcement, the Bureau of Standards Jamaica manages quality and standards compliance, and port authorities work alongside licensed customs brokers.
Shipping & Logistics for Tiles Export to Jamaica
Best Ports for Tiles Import
The Port of Kingston serves as the primary gateway for tile imports, handling the majority of containerized cargo. Other ports support regional distribution depending on project location.
Sea Freight Considerations for Heavy Tile Cargo
Tiles are heavy and fragile, making sea freight the preferred shipping mode. Successful shipments depend on several factors: strong export-grade packaging, proper palletization and container loading, moisture protection for long sea voyages, and experienced freight forwarders familiar with Jamaican customs.
Typical Shipping & Clearance Timelines
From India or other major exporting countries, sea freight typically takes several weeks. Proper planning ensures materials arrive on schedule to meet construction timelines.
Most Popular Tile Sizes, Finishes & Applications in Jamaica
Best-Selling Tile Sizes in the Jamaica Market
The most widely used tile size is 600×600 mm, favored for both residential and commercial flooring. Demand is also growing for 600×1200 mm large-format tiles, medium formats like 300×600 mm, and extra-large tiles for premium and hospitality projects.
Preferred Tile Types & Surface Finishes
Buyers commonly request porcelain and vitrified tiles for durability, glazed ceramic tiles for walls, and a variety of finishes including matt, glossy, semi-polished, and textured surfaces. Popular design styles include marble-look, wood-look, stone-look, and concrete-look patterns.
Residential, Commercial & Outdoor Applications
Tiles find widespread use across multiple settings: homes (living rooms, kitchens, bathrooms), hotels, resorts, restaurants, and retail stores, plus outdoor areas requiring slip resistance and UV stability.
Choosing the Right Tiles for Jamaica’s Tropical Climate
Performance Requirements for Caribbean Conditions
Tiles used in Jamaica must perform reliably in hot, humid, and coastal environments. Buyers prioritize four key characteristics: low water absorption, resistance to mold and mildew, UV stability for outdoor areas, and slip-resistant surfaces for wet zones.
Why Porcelain Tiles Are Ideal for Jamaica
Porcelain tiles offer several advantages for Jamaica’s climate: high density and low porosity, long-term durability in humidity, easy maintenance and hygiene, and suitability for both indoor and outdoor applications.
Quality Standards, Certifications & Buyer Expectations
International Quality Standards Required
Professional buyers expect compliance with recognized standards: ISO 10545 testing standards, EN and ASTM benchmarks, and verified water absorption, breaking strength, and abrasion resistance.
Common Quality Issues Importers Want to Avoid
Experienced importers focus on preventing three main problems: shade variation across batches, surface defects such as pinholes or glaze issues, and dimensional inconsistencies that affect installation.
Role of Pre-Shipment Inspection
Third-party inspection before shipment is strongly recommended. It helps verify batch consistency and shade matching, surface quality and dimensional accuracy, and packing quality and container loading.
Major Tile Exporting Countries Supplying Jamaica
China, Spain, Italy & Turkey – Market Positioning
Each major exporting country serves different market segments. China supplies high volumes for cost-sensitive projects, Spain is known for design innovation and aesthetics, Italy serves the premium segment with high-end finishes, and Turkey offers competitive positioning with modern designs.
India as a Competitive Tile Exporter to Jamaica
India has become a preferred sourcing destination for several reasons: it offers a strong balance between quality and consistency, has advanced digital printing and large-format production capabilities, and features export-oriented manufacturers with international certifications.
How to Select a Reliable Tile Exporter for Jamaica
Supplier Verification Checklist
Before finalizing a supplier, importers should confirm three essential points: valid ISO and quality certifications, proven export experience in tropical or Caribbean markets, and willingness to support inspections and documentation.
Red Flags Importers Should Watch For
Be cautious of suppliers who refuse third-party inspection, provide unclear batch or packing information, or show inconsistent communication after order confirmation.
Why Importers Trust Scalane International
Export Experience & Market Understanding
Scalane International is an Indian exporter specializing in porcelain, vitrified, GVT/PGVT, and ceramic tiles for global markets. The company understands Jamaica’s import regulations and customs process, climate-specific tile performance requirements, and B2B buyer expectations for consistency and documentation.
Quality Assurance & Compliance Commitment
Scalane International supports buyers through ISO-aligned quality control, third-party pre-shipment inspections, and clear batch identification with export-grade packing.
End-to-End Export Support
From product selection to shipping coordination, Scalane International assists importers with technical datasheets and certifications, complete export documentation, and reliable production with repeat-order support.
Frequently Asked Questions About Tiles Import to Jamaica
Do I need an import permit to import tiles into Jamaica? No, tiles are not restricted, but full documentation is required.
Which tile size is most popular in Jamaica? 600×600 mm remains the most widely used size.
Are porcelain or ceramic tiles better for Jamaica’s climate? Porcelain tiles are generally preferred due to low water absorption and durability.
How can importers avoid quality issues? By approving samples, verifying certifications, and conducting pre-shipment inspections.
Ready to Import Tiles to Jamaica?
If you’re planning to import tiles into Jamaica or looking for a reliable tile exporter, Scalane International can support your sourcing process with compliant, export-grade solutions.
Next steps:
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- Request a detailed product catalogue
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- Ask for technical datasheets and certifications
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- Order samples for quality verification
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- Request a project-specific quotation