JAMAICA NOW: China defends relationship with JA | Marks responds to TCN deal | Min wage increase

#JamaicaGleaner #JamaicaNow JULY 5, 2026: China defends its 53-year relationship with Jamaica amid renewed concerns from the United States over Beijing's influence in the region… Cabinet Minister Audrey Marks says she did not propose the controversial plan for Jamaica to receive up to 10,000 third-country nationals from the US… Hundreds gathered in Cross Roads demanding greater government accountability… Taxpayers will spend about $25 billion on the next phase of the SPARK road rehabilitation programme… Public passenger vehicle operators are now charging the full 16 per cent fare increase approved by the Government… Stakeholders say the increase in the national minimum wage is welcome but still falls short of meeting the rising cost of living… Jamaicans are being urged to protect themselves against heat-related illnesses as temperatures soar… CARICOM is to examine issues affecting Rastafarians across the region amid continuing reports of discrimination and marginalisation. For unlimited exclusive stories and value-added digital content, » Subscribe to Gleaner Premium: http://jamaica-gleaner.com/premium » Sign up for our newsletters to get local and world stories delivered straight to your inbox: https://cutt.ly/HzqfUA5 Connect with The Gleaner! » Like us on Facebook: Jamaica Gleaner » Tweet us on Twitter: JamaicaGleaner » Follow us on Instagram:   / jamaicagleaner   The Gleaner is the Caribbean’s leading news source, bringing you credible news and information that matter. From the latest in current affairs, breaking stories, sports, entertainment and more; we deliver all the information you need in print, online and in your social media feeds. Continue to enjoy The Gleaner video stories here... Jamaica Gleaner @JamaicaGleaner