The Isle of Man Chamber of Commerce has launched a campaign calling for economic growth to be the central issue of this year’s General Election.
Chamber warns that the island is experiencing its sharpest economic downturn in a generation.
Official figures show the economy shrank by 7.4% in the two years to March 2024, with around 1,000 jobs lost across key sectors including financial services, e‑gaming, manufacturing and tourism.
Chamber is calling on all election candidates to set out clearly what they will do to restore growth, and on voters to demand answers.
Economic Focus is Missing
President of Chamber, Claire Watterson said: “For over 30 years the Isle of Man was one of the fastest-growing economies in the developed world.
“That success was built through genuine partnership between government and business, with a clear focus on growth. That focus has been missing in recent years. This election is the moment to restore it. Economic growth is not just a business issue, it is a living standards issue. Without it, there is no sustainable way to fund healthcare, housing, or public services.
“The question every voter should put to every candidate is a simple one: if the economy does not grow, how will you pay for the services people expect?”
The Chamber says slow decision‑making, regulatory barriers and a lack of economic focus are holding the island back.
Its campaign will highlight issues such as energy costs, connectivity, skills, housing and government delivery in the run‑up to polling day on September 24.
