Artificial Intelligence law at Jamaica

05 May 2025 --
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As of 2025, Jamaica is actively developing a legal and regulatory framework to address the challenges and opportunities posed by Artificial Intelligence (AI). Here's an overview of the current landscape:

🇯🇲 Jamaica's Approach to Artificial Intelligence Regulation

1. National AI Task Force

In July 2023, the Jamaican government established a National AI Task Force comprising experts from the private sector, academia, civil society, and the public sector. This task force was mandated to explore effective strategies for mitigating the risks posed by AI and deepfakes while unlocking opportunities for innovation.

2. Data Protection Act (2020)

Jamaica's Data Protection Act, which came into effect in December 2020, regulates the collection, use, storage, and disclosure of personal data by data controllers and processors in Jamaica. The Act establishes the Office of the Information Commissioner to oversee compliance and enforces standards such as:

Fair and lawful processing: Data must be processed with the subject's consent.

Data quality: Personal data collected must be adequate, relevant, and necessary.

Security: Data controllers must implement appropriate technical and organizational measures to protect data.

3. Interim AI Ethics and Data Privacy Guidelines

The National AI Task Force has recommended the development of interim guidelines to ensure AI applications comply with existing data protection laws. These guidelines focus on:

Transparency: Clear labeling of AI-generated content.

Consent management: Obtaining informed consent from individuals whose data is used.

Responsible data usage: Ensuring data is used ethically and securely.

4. Cybercrimes Act and Deepfake Regulation

While there is no specific criminal liability for the dissemination of deepfake or AI-generated content that misrepresents facts, Jamaican lawmakers are considering the regulation of such content under the existing Cybercrimes Act. The Deputy Director of Public Prosecutions has highlighted potential avenues for civil remedies in cases where AI-generated material causes damage, such as defamation.

5. Government Initiatives and Public Awareness

The Jamaican government has recognized the potential threats posed by AI-generated content, particularly deepfakes, to the democratic process. In response, officials have emphasized the need for responsible AI use and have urged entities to protect clients' data when using AI technologies.