Broadcasting Commission

Government of Jamaica 

Radio

Radio is the oldest, most popular electronic medium, which was introduced to Jamaica in the 1930s. The popularity of radio listening continues to be reflected in the interest in establishing new services, which broaden the range of programming available.

The years 1988 to1992 were very exciting times for radio in particular, for it was being transformed by the introduction of niche programming. During that period, five new services were licensed, among which were stations fashioned around the genres of religion and reggae. This trend of niche programming was a general indicator of the direction of Jamaican radio. This was supported by the more recent licensing experience of 1992 – 1996, where the four new media services, commonly designated as "community radio services" direct their programming to a clearly defined audiences.

With the government's approval for the implementation of a licensing framework that is cognisant of the wide range of possible media services, the radio landscape can be expected to show growth.

Television

Local broadcast television, like radio, has benefitted from the addition of new services over the past ten years. The grant of two new TV licences in 1991 and 1992 marked the end of a period where the television market had been controlled by one entity.

As with radio, the new licensing framework, which begins with the reclassification of licences, will prompt expansion as well as support the introduction of new approaches to operations and programming.

Television continues to be an important tool for information, entertainment and education for Jamaicans with sets in the majority of households. The Commission's role is to make sure that television programming meets established and developing standards. Television stations are held responsible for everything they put on air, including advertising.

Licensees

There are 29 companies licensed to broadcast in Jamaica.

View Licensees

Subscriber (Cable) Television

Subscriber television, or cable TV, is a popular form of home entertainment in many Jamaican households. The industry was brought under the umbrella of the law on July 1, 1998 when licences were first issued. That was almost fifteen years after its emergence as an entertainment option associated with the hospitality sector.

The Commission monitors the operations of STV services, ensuring that standards are maintained and that permission is received for the programming used, including music. The Commission also has an important role in encouraging the development of new channels for the exposure of material produced in Jamaica and the Caribbean, as well as access for the Jamaican public to more sources of information to meet the growing demand for information and home entertainment.

The following is a list of the licensed subscriber television operators in Jamaica along with the zones which they serve.

View Licensed Operators

Low Power FM Broadcasting Stations

These radio stations do not hold broadcast licences. They are given a permit to use the spectrum for broadcasting to limited areas, usually a ten mile radius.

View Stations

Vision

To be an innovative regulator that leads and facilitates the development and advancement of a dynamic electronic communications sector for the benefit of Jamaica.

Mission

Our mission is to ensure a successful national transition to a digital economy, using technological innovation to empower, liberate and encourage new forms of business, social, cultural and media development while protecting the people of Jamaica from potential risks including harmful content.

bcj

9 Central Avenue,
Kingston 10 
Jamaica WI
Telephone: 876-920-9537-9
929-1998, 876-618-0876-8
Toll Free: 1-888-99- CABLE (22253)
Facsimile: 876-929-1997
Email: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.