Genuine Jersey Urges Greater Support for Island-Made Products to Boost Local Economy

Jersey should prioritise locally produced goods over imported products to strengthen the island's economy, according to the organisation behind the Genuine Jersey accreditation scheme.

Celebrating its 25th anniversary, Genuine Jersey now represents more than 200 local producers across a wide range of industries, including food, art, dairy and skincare.

Chief executive John Garton said purchasing products carrying the Genuine Jersey mark directly benefits the island by supporting local businesses and jobs.

"When people choose Genuine Jersey products, they're supporting our economy and the people who live and work here," he said.

Garton added that buying locally helps keep money circulating within the island, reduces carbon emissions linked to imports and encourages seasonal eating.

"It recycles the local pound, reduces our carbon footprint and helps people eat seasonally. If the mark is on fresh produce, you know it has been grown locally and is in season," he said.

While Genuine Jersey continues to promote island products internationally, Garton said the organisation's focus is increasingly turning towards improving food security by reducing dependence on imported goods.

He said encouraging regenerative farming practices would benefit not only the environment but also public health.

"We want to place greater emphasis on feeding our own community through farming that supports healthy soils, nutritious food, good gut health and better mental wellbeing," he said.

Garton described Jersey's world-famous dairy industry and Jersey Royals as the island's flagship products but believes there is scope for other local goods to gain wider recognition.

He also highlighted the potential of Jersey's oyster industry, which he said benefits from the island's unique tidal conditions, but acknowledged exporters have faced challenges since Brexit.

"The oyster industry here is outstanding because of our high tidal flow, but changes following Brexit have affected exports to Europe," he said. "There are discussions taking place that could improve the situation in the future."

Concerns over exporting seafood to European markets have previously been raised by industry representatives and Jersey's former Environment Minister, who cited difficulties meeting post-Brexit regulatory requirements.