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A modern customs administration, delivering excellent service, fostering compliance and contributing to our national
development and protection of society.
VISION
MISSIONTo facilitate trade, protect our borders, optimise revenue collection, through
collaborative border management and delivery of high quality customer
service, and to develop and maintain a team of motivated, professional and
competent staff.
OUR CORE VALUESCustomer-focused
We continuously seek ways to improve our processes and procedures through innovation, in order to enhance and provide the best customer service
experience.
AccountabilityAccountabilityWe accept responsibility for the achievement of the Agency’s goals and
objectives by honouring our commitments to our customers, stakeholders and the international community.
ProfessionalismWe are proud to serve our clients and are dedicated to demonstrating the
highest standards of competence in the execution of our duties.
IntegrityIntegrityWe consistently act with impartiality and honesty in serving our customers,
in fulfilling our core mandates, to achieve the best possible outcomes for the Agency and our country.
TransparencyTransparencyWe display openness and are responsive to our customers and stakeholders, in
the delivery of our services.
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On January 26, 2020, Jamaica joined over 182 Customs administrations worldwide to observe International Customs Day. This year’s theme, ’Customs Fostering Sustainability for People, Prosperity and the Planet’, is intended to highlight the contribution of Customs towards a sustainable future where social, economic, health, and environmental needs will determine our actions.
Sustainability means meeting the needs of the present world without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their needs. The theme of Customs Day 2020 echoes two of the major goals of Vision 2030: for a prosperous Jamaican economy, and a healthy natural environment.
Sustainability for people speaks to the social needs for more efficient monitoring systems, greater staff efficiency, and a better experience for customers. Jamaica Customs has embraced e-government procedures and introduced Information and Communication Technology (ICT) initiatives that will make for more efficient and effective administration.
The recently introduced Electronic Passenger Declaration Form and the Electronic Customs Duty Estimator will go a far way to enhance the processing of goods and people at the nation’s ports of entry.
Sustainability for prosperity includes plugging loopholes, speedier processing of goods, preventing the entry of contraband goods, monitoring food security, combating the narcotics trade, and preventing money laundering. Efficient monitoring and surveillance in these areas and the collection of increased revenues will foster economic development.
Sustainability for the planet will ensure that in the operations of the Agency there is due regard for environmental and health concerns.
Once again, I commend the management and staff of this important Agency and wish you continued success as you modernise your operations in order to build sustainability and serve the nation better.
Theme highlights Customs’ contribution towards a
sustainable future
His ExcellencyThe Most Hon. Sir Patrick Allen ON,
GCMG, CD, KST.JThe Governor-General
On January 26, 2020 Jamaica joined the rest of the world in observing International Customs Day.
This celebration which is under the theme “Customs Fostering Sustainability for People, Prosperity and the Planet”, is not only critical for the global community but holds added significance for us here in Jamaica, as we chart a course towards making the country the place to do business, live and raise families.
When you look at it, the Jamaica Customs Agency plays a pivotal role in facilitating trade, protecting our borders, and optimising revenue collection which are critical factors in the life of a productive economy.
For Jamaica, our customs agency, which has roots going back to the 1800s, continues to provide world class services aimed at fostering compliance and contributing to our national development and protection of society.
As a member of the international umbrella group, World Customs Organization, the Jamaica Customs once again proves itself as a world leader, by keeping up with current trends and technologies.
As we celebrate International Customs Day, let us take the opportunity to recommit to the holistic development of the Jamaican economy. Hand in hand with this development is the work and worth of our customs department.
In that regard, Jamaica became the second country in the Americas to deploy the National Customs Enforcement Network (nCEN).
The core database of national seizures and offences comprises data required for analysis, including means of conveyance, routes, and the possibility to view photos depicting exceptional concealment methods.
There is more work to be done but we are on the right track and the Jamaica Customs Agency can be duly proud of their accomplishments thus far.
Congratulations.
Jamaica Customs Agency a world leader
The Most Hon. Andrew Holness, ON, MPPrime Minister
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It is a pleasure once again to extend a well-deserved recognition to the Jamaica Customs Agency (JCA) as it commemorates another Customs Week, under the theme: ‘Customs Fostering Sustainability for People, Prosperity and the Planet.’ As you stage this week of activities, it is essential that you highlight the critical role that the JCA continues to play in Jamaica’s thrust for economic growth and development. The theme selected for this year’s celebration is most fitting as we call upon all agencies in both the public and private sectors to play their part in contributing to the social, business and economic life of Jamaica.
The Jamaica Customs Agency is the country’s first line of border protection and defence. Our nation continues to depend on the commitment and hard work of the officers and workers at the Agency. Your sustained vigilance in safeguarding the island’s entry points against the threats of guns, drugs and other contraband is particularly needed at this time when our country is threatened by the scourge of crime and gun violence.
The JCA must be further applauded for the continued improvement in its operations, which no doubt allow for greater efficiency in border control mechanisms as well as trade facilitation and the advancement of its administrative capabilities. This provides an ease of access for citizens and businesses to import and clear goods which will strengthen revenue collection, leaving more budgetary space to spend on those essential services which will better the lives of all Jamaicans. It is then clear that no country can advance its development agenda and improve the quality of life of its people without a highly efficient and effective Customs agency.
Let me take this opportunity on behalf of the Parliamentary Opposition to urge you to continue the development of your capacity to integrate more technologically advanced systems into your operations, with a view of creating a more efficient Jamaica Customs. Do continue your great work towards creating a Jamaica that works for all, making our country “the place of choice to live, work, raise families, and do business.”
Kudos to Customs for continued improvement
Peter D. Phillips, PhD., MPLeader of the Opposition
Customs being modernised in a number of areas
Once again, the Jamaica Customs Agency (JCA) joined the international customs community in celebrating International Customs Day. Throughout 2020, under the theme ‘Customs Fostering Sustainability for People, Prosperity and the Planet’, I challenge the JCA to focus on improving its customer service and by so doing enable more efficient national, regional and international supply chains.
As we embrace the International Customs Day theme, it is the intent of the Government of Jamaica to provide essential services in ways that maximise efficiency and effectiveness, and are customer-facing. For border regulation and customs, the focus is to create a more transparent, industry-friendly and sustainable framework that facilitates trade, promotes greater ease of doing business, and enhances border protection. As such, the Government of Jamaica has taken a strategic approach to modernise the JCA in a number of areas.
A key feature of this modernisation process is the tabling of a new JCA Bill that will seek to repeal and replace the existing 1941 Customs Act. The new Act will allow for more transparency, improved dispute resolution, provision of administrative appeal processes for Customs decisions, increased predictability, the introduction of Advance Rulings and increased facilitation for compliance with customs processes.The public should benefit from added facilitation for process and clearance times.
Modernising the JCA provides the opportunity to implement customs procedures that will promote prosperity through current and future business opportunities for Jamaica and strengthen sustainability practices.
Congratulations to the JCA for its commitment for ‘fostering sustainability for people, prosperity and the planet’.
Hon. Nigel Clarke, DPhil, MPMinister of Finance and the
Public Service
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The Jamaica Customs Agency (JCA) looks forward to the annual celebration of International Customs Day, coupled with our week of activities, which among things, generally brings into focus, the work of the Agency, including its achievements and initiatives undertaken in the preceding year.
We recognise the critical role we play in the development of Jamaica, and to a large extent, we are the driving force behind our country’s social and economic progress, and this year’s global theme: ‘Customs Fostering Sustainability for People, Prosperity and the Planet’, appropriately speaks to this, as we have a responsibility to ensure the safety of our people and the sustenance of our environment. In fact, the theme fully encapsulates our mandates – of protecting Jamaica’s borders, facilitating trade and collecting revenue on behalf of the Government of Jamaica. Without a doubt, the JCA provides the fuel for the growth and acceleration of all industries and sectors in Jamaica through the fulfilment of these mandates.
Customs is uniquely mandated and positioned at the border to play a prominent role across the international supply chain, by ensuring a sustainable, secure, and inclusive future for all. Against this background, our contribution to sustainability can be categorised as follows:
• Serving our people, by building safe and secure societies: Customs plays a critical role in implementing regulations and preventing sub-standard or counterfeit goods and products that infringe on these regulations from entering local markets, and by taking action against the trafficking of people, drugs, weapons, money laundering, and other serious offences.
• Contributing to economic development, by reducing trade barriers: International trade plays a tremendous role in supporting a prosperous, sustainable and resilient economy. By streamlining its operations, the JCA has been taking steps to reduce the time and cost of moving goods across borders as well as to stimulate trading activities. By taking strong action against commercial fraud and tax evasion, we have been ensuring that the government is not deprived of critical revenue, necessary to fund public infrastructure and services.
• Protecting the planet and ensuring its sustainability for future generations: The Jamaica Customs Agency has been contributing to, and supporting Jamaica’s environmental sustainability. This includes addressing the illicit trade in hazardous waste and ozone-depleting substances, combating the illicit trade in endangered species, and preventing the spread of plant and animal diseases. Locally, the
Jamaica Customs – proud to serve our country
Velma Ricketts Walker, J.P.CEO/Commissioner of Customs Jamaica Customs Agency (JCA)
implementation of regulations governing the ban on single use plastic bags and styrofoam products, also forms part of the sustainable development of our country. These efforts come with collaboration and coordination with local and international environmental protection entities.
These various dimensions of sustainability underpin Customs’ contribution to achieving the seventeen (17) Sustainable Development Goals outlined in the United Nations’ 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development.
Jamaica Customs has been making tremendous strides to enhance our service delivery and customer experience. This has been supported by the Agency’s appetite for the adoption of international best practices, modernisation and reform, which is evidenced in the continuous use of automation for establishing e-Services to our clients and stakeholders.
The JCA charged with the responsibility of implementing Jamaica Single Window for Trade (JSWIFT), will continue to work assiduously with the other Border Regulatory Agencies (BRAs) to further build-out this single eco-system that will serve to improve trade locally and internationally.
In order to remain effective, Customs agencies, such as the JCA, must pay close attention to not only
the global trading space, but also the feedback of our clientele. As such, we have also expanded our reach, by undertaking several stakeholder engagements across the island, as we recognise the need to listen to the feedback of customers, and to see how best as an Agency we can serve them better.
Of note, is that the Agency has started its journey towards achieving ISO certification (9001:2015) in the area of Quality Management System. Achieving this certification, means that we have had to review our current procedures, practices and processes, and identify what is working well, what requires improvement and possibly, what requires elimination – all in an effort to achieve greater results, emanating in improved service delivery.
Unarguably, the strides made by the JCA have been done in tandem with our various partners and stakeholders, both local and overseas, which means that going forward, we will be counting on your continued support, as together we will contribute to furthering the growth and development of our country.
The JCA is indeed proud to be of service to our country and fellowmen, in keeping with our motto: “Country Above Self.”
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With the increased focus on trade facilitation and ease of doing business, the Port Authority of Jamaica (the Authority) and the Jamaica Customs Agency (JCA) have been working together to ensure that our systems, infrastructure and policies are aligned with best practices used in developed countries. Measures have been put in place by both agencies to strike the ideal balance between trade facilitation and border security.
As the Government of Jamaica’s chief maritime agency with responsibility for regulating and developing ports and port facilities, the Authority remains committed to the Government’s achievement of its strategic goals of economic growth and national development.
Tourism is a major contributor to the Jamaican economy, and the Authority and the JCA play an integral role in the development and success of this sector through cruise tourism. Both agencies work to ensure that cruise visitors have a memorable and enjoyable experience in a safe environment.
In 2019, the Authority continued making investments in the development of the island’s cruise port facilities in Montego Bay, Falmouth, Ocho Rios and Port Royal, to increase Jamaica’s competitiveness as a cruise destination. The successful docking of the first cruise vessel in Port Royal on January 20, 2020, is a testament to the success
Port Authority will continue to support Jamaica Customs
Professor The Hon. Gordon Shirley, OJ President & CEO
The Port Authority of Jamaica (PAJ)
of the collaborative effort by stakeholders in the project, including the Jamaica Customs Agency. Together, both entities are committed to raising the stature of Jamaica’s cruise product offering.
With respect to security in our cargo operations, JCA, in collaboration with the Authority, executes specific security functions through the Authority’s subsidiary, Ports Management & Security Limited, to prevent the entry of contraband or prohibited items into the island.
In addition, the Authority ensures that all port facilities abide by the International Maritime Organisation’s International Ship and Port Facility Security (ISPS) Code and are duly certified. Capacity building is ongoing with workshops and training sessions conducted by strategic overseas partners to enhance the skillset of the security personnel locally.
Technology is an important driver of efficiency within the Jamaican Port Community. One such initiative is the implementation of the Port Community System (PCS) being led by the Authority, which is an electronic platform used by industry stakeholders for trade-related transactions. This has led to improved transparency and reduced use of paper within the Maritime Industry. Critical real-time information is provided by the PCS, which is used by members of the port and shipping community.
The JCA has also implemented the Automated System for Customs Data (ASYCUDA World), aimed at providing a simpler, informative and user-friendly system for all stakeholders. Together, these systems have provided a modern trade platform for Jamaica. We give the assurance of our commitment to continue our partnership in the best interest of Jamaica.
The Authority will continue to support the Jamaica Customs Agency in fulfilling its mandate. We remain committed to the Government’s vision and will continue to execute our functions in a sustainable manner which will bring Jamaica closer to achieving Vision 2030 by becoming “the place of choice to live, work, raise families and do business.”
We wish the Jamaica Customs Agency continued success on this important observance of International Customs Day in conjunction with its sister agencies worldwide.
All passengers arriving in Jamaica who have unaccompanied luggage must clear Customs using the Red Channel in the Customs Hall
Customs Tip
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7Focus on sustainability - of utmost importance
Richard PandohiePresident, Jamaica Manufacturers and Exporters Association (JMEA)
The Jamaica Manufacturers and Exporters Association (JMEA) is delighted to celebrate Customs Week with the Jamaica Customs Agency (JCA) under the theme: ‘Customs Fostering Sustainability for People, Prosperity and the Planet’.
The move to focus on sustainability in our present era is of utmost importance if we are to cultivate a Jamaica that can truly uphold and advance the welfare of its people. The JCA, we believe, has an important role to play in the achievement of fostering national sustainability. The scope of its work is imperative towards safeguarding health, safety and quality within our society. This is reflected in its duties such as the implementation of measures to counteract illegal trade activities that hold the potential to harm our domestic market and environment, which can essentially affect our sustainability plans and efforts.
The relationship between the JMEA and the JCA has always been one of significance as both entities serve the development of the nation’s manufacturing and export sectors. Hence, on several occasions the JCA has come on board to support various initiatives such as the training of JMEA staff and membership in key online exporting procedures and systems. The JCA has participated in our Exporters’ Month celebrations and likewise the JMEA has also been involved the JCA’s “Customs Meet the Community” initiative, along with other sensitisation fora.
The JMEA commends the JCA on its work in the enforcement of rules and regulations along with the development of procedures and systems that protect and facilitate the advancement of trade within the country. We look forward to the continued partnership as we progress into a new decade focused on creating economic growth that supports wealth generation and social development for all while protecting the environment.
We wish for you a successful Customs Week and we urge Jamaicans, specifically those within the business landscape, to familiarise themselves with the work of the JCA and how the entity has been making an impact in fostering a thriving and sustainable Jamaica.
All adult passengers with
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the Red Channel in the
Customs Hall
Customs Tip
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As a strategic partner in the development of shipping and logistics, the Shipping Association of Jamaica (SAJ) congratulates Jamaica Customs Agency (JCA) as they celebrate Customs Week 2020 under the international theme ’Customs Fostering Sustainability for People, Prosperity and the Planet.’
This focus is in keeping with the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, adopted by the United Nations General Assembly as well as the common globally accepted mission of Customs — to develop effective trade facilitation measures, implement an integrated set of policies and procedures that ensure increased safety and security, and revenue collection. These are achieved through focusing on efficient and effective use of tools and information in dealing with the international movement of goods, conveyances and people, all while ensuring a creative deployment of labour and prudent use of resources.
At the SAJ, we embrace our role of representing the trading community by being attentive to the new developments in trade so that both the requirements of the Government’s Border Regulatory Agencies and the imperatives of business can be met. Our perspective on private sector involvement is typified by our consultations with Jamaica Customs in the process, which is repealing and replacing the Customs Act. It is fitting that we are involved in this process as we have long called for comprehensive legislative change.
During these final stages of review and discussion we are keenly focused on strengthening those legal provisions that will increase Jamaica’s competitiveness, expand our scope for growth, foster the development and expansion of Special Economic Zones and our logistics business. We expect that the final efforts will also seek to improve the JCA’s focus on trade facilitation which may result in much-needed improvements in the international trading across borders rating, as well as the International Logistics Performance Index.
The new Customs Act should promote regulatory compliance in a manner that facilitates the business of legitimate trade. When trade grows, we all will prosper — people and planet.
When trade grows, we all will prosper
Charles JohnstonPresident
Shipping Association of Jamaica (SAJ)
The Jamaica Chamber of Commerce extends best wishes to the Jamaica Customs Agency as it celebrates International Customs Day and, by extension, Customs Week 2020, alongside its counterparts in the World Customs Organisation.
It may not always be acknowledged as such, but Customs authorities are pivotal in the safeguarding of a country’s economy. Porous borders, where contraband is able to enter and exit without being detected are anathema to sustainable growth. It is as true in Jamaica, as anywhere else, that the level of efficiency with which Border Regulatory Agencies perform their duties are critical factors in the development and growth of robust export-focussed economies.
There is considerable evidence that the Jamaica Customs Agency is committed to the transformation into an organ of the state that is focussed on facilitating trade, and not solely or primarily as an entity that sees revenue collection as its major responsibility. It is not, admittedly, the easiest task to find that balance between the two, but some of the recent improvements to the administrative infrastructure — including the greater utilisation of appropriate technologies and a commendable focus on upskilling its professional staff — bode well. There is evidence too that some of the silo-like attitudes that mitigated against collaboration between the state bodies that play key roles in cross-border trade, are now being re-shaped through, for instance the implementation of inter-agency working groups.
One of the key pillars that will assist in that process, is the pending introduction of a modern and fit-for-purpose Customs Act. This piece of legislation and the associated regulations will underpin an impressive continuum of developments that have taken place in recent years, ranging from the introduction of ASYCUDA World to the launch of a robust Port Community System.
At the end of the day our nation can only benefit from coming to be known as a top locale with respect to doing business across borders. The Jamaica Customs Agency is crucial in this process and can rely on the Jamaica Chamber of Commerce to do its part in making this outcome a reality.
Customs critical to doing business across borders
Lloyd Distant Jr.President
Jamaica Chamber of Commerce (JCC)
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As the Jamaica Customs Agency celebrate another International Customs Day and week of activities under the theme ‘Customs fostering Sustainability for People, Prosperity and the Planet’ we take this opportunity to congratulate them. The theme this year is most relevant at this time. We concur, Customs, and by extension Customs Brokers and other stakeholders, foster sustainability, especially when viewed against the background of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
Four of the 17 goals — no poverty, no hunger, good health, and quality education — can be achieved if Customs continues to increase revenue collection and encourage voluntary compliance. This is also coupled with a zero tolerance approach as well as employing all available resources at our borders to detect and seize contraband, the illegal importation of firearms, the trade in counterfeit goods and pharmaceuticals, the smuggling of wildlife and plants that will damage our environment and people.
The recent ban on the importation, manufacture, and distribution of single-use plastic bags, etc and expanded polystyrene foam (Styrofoam) products is a positive move in protecting the planet and the environment. Customs, Customs Brokers and the Border Regulatory Agencies (BRAs) must be vigilant in this push to protect us. It must be noted that full compliance by all has a major role to play in fostering sustainability for the planet.
The Jamaica Society Of Customs Brokers (JSCB) is of the view that a responsive, fair and predictable Customs is also critical to the creation of an enhanced and secured business environment that will most likely add value to our international trade facilitation initiatives and will provide the impetus for more foreign direct investment in the productive and services sectors. Those investments will most likely stimulate economic growth, improve the material welfare of our people and take us closer to our full-employment output, economic goal and ultimately prosperity.
The JSCB stands ready to expand its partnership with the JCA in sustaining the environment, the planet and foster prosperity for the people of Jamaica by ensuring compliance with Customs and other regulatory requirements.
The JSCB looks forward to our continued partnership going forward.
JSCB ready to expand partnership with Customs
Junior B. WaughPresident, Jamaica Society of
Customs Brokers (JSCB)
The Customs Brokers and Freight Forwarders Association of Jamaica (CBFFAJ), on the occasion of Customs Week and International Customs Day, January 26, 2020, proudly joined with our valued partner the Jamaica Customs Agency (JCA) and the global community to acknowledge the ongoing contributions of Customs towards the achievement of the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
As the largest and most influential professional organisation of its kind on the island, the CBFFAJ’s toil and industry at our ports of entry and our advocacy for a world-class Customs system are in alignment with the pursuit of Goal #8 of the SDGs for Decent Work and Economic Growth by the World Customs Organization (WCO).
We concur with the WCO that “simplifying and standardising border procedures and creating transparent and predictable conditions for trade, Customs administrations” will facilitate legitimate businesses, which will in turn increase economic growth and job opportunities.
The member companies of the CBFFAJ rely on highly functional Customs systems to deliver outstanding value for our clients and to foster robust trade and commerce.
Interestingly, this year’s theme of ‘Customs Fostering Sustainability for People, Prosperity and the Planet’ also coincides with the World Customs Organisations’ pursuit of SDG Goals #5 and #10 for Gender Equality and Reduced Inequalities, respectively.
We agree with the WCO that Customs should play a role in “opening up opportunities for women entrepreneurs, small traders and marginalised communities to access new markets, while improving conditions and ensuring safety at the border.”
We are delighted to say that nearly 40% of the membership of the CBFFAJ are women, who hold 61% of the executive positions in the Association’s leadership.
Suffice it to say; the CBFFAJ, the JCA and other collaborating border agencies like the Trade Board, are essential to a smooth and effective trade facilitation process to sustain the vital global supply chains for goods and services into Jamaica, while performing a revenue collection function to finance the national treasury and national development plans.
In 2019, the CBFFAJ experienced significant improvements in reducing the backlog of import permits at the Trade Board, due in large measure to focused relationship-building and the deepening of the lines of communication between our membership and the Trade Administrator and his team. In looking back at how the CBFFAJ and the Trade Board have been achieving these operational efficiencies, we are mindful that collaboration and facilitation will always win swift and meaningful results.
It gives us hope that we can overcome the operational challenges which have historically hobbled us; and that we can make greater strides to achieve game-changing goals like the enhancement and integration of the National Trade Electronic Single Window (NTESW) with a more robust ASYCUDA and Port Community System.
The CBFFAJ, founded 55 years ago to secure the interests of our members and to promote and uphold the highest professional standards in the Customs services industry, remains invested in the vision of qualifying Jamaica as a SMART Border Economy.
We encourage the Customs Agency and the key stakeholders operating at Jamaica’s commercial ports of entry to vigorously pursue and implement the ongoing technology initiatives to achieve a world-class Jamaican Customs system.
On International Customs Day, we congratulate the Jamaica Customs Agency for its achievements and commitment to go further and to do more! You can count on the CBFFAJ’s partnership to turn our shared visions into amazing reality!
Customs can count on CBFFAJ’s partnership to turn shared visions
into reality
Mitzie Gordon Burke-GreenPresident, Customs Brokers and Freight Forwarders Association
of Jamaica (CBFFAJ)
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What is JSWIFT?JSWIFT stands for Jamaica Single Window for Trade. JSWIFT will allow traders or their
brokers to request Licences, Permits, Certificates and Other trade-related documents (LPCO) through a single transactional point (single window) to fulfil import or export-related regulatory requirements. This will alleviate traders making multiple submissions to different government agencies. JSWIFT will cover those transactions that have direct linkage to international trade. The Jamaica Customs Agency (JCA) is the implementing agency for the project, which is being done on a phased basis.
Benefits of JSWIFTThe implementation of the Jamaica Single Window for Trade will result in: • Faster processing of LPCO applications• Decreased costs due to reduction of delays• Increased transparency
• Reduced costs of compliance• Reduced documentation due to single submission of data• Real-time availability of status of application
The system is expected to improve collaboration among the JCA, other Border Regulatory Agencies (BRAs), and the trade community, in general. It is also expected to reduce non-tariff barriers, simplify trading procedures, and reduce cost and time for doing business in Jamaica.
The services to be facilitated through this portal will be administered by the various BRAs and participating government agencies. Subsequently, all trade-related licences, permits, certificates and other trade-related documents will be accessible through the portal. The services provided will include the uploading of the required supporting documents, access to electronic payment services, the tracking of transactions and receiving real-time notifications.
Training and Sensitisation The project also includes bringing awareness of the implementation and
upcoming features of JSWIFT to the trade community through its training and sensitisation programme. Planned sensitisation seminars were conducted throughout 2019 and will continue in 2020. These sessions are being used as a platform not only to create public awareness but also to strengthen stakeholder engagement, as participants are given the opportunity to ask questions and seek clarification on any JSWIFT related matter.
JSWIFT will first be made available, in incremental stages, to traders who currently use the services of the Trade Board Limited (TBL), with User Registration being the first module available. All users are required to create an individual profile to gain access to the system for personal and business related transactions. In order to register, persons should visit: www.jswift.gov.jm.
TBL clients or persons in general, who have questions or, who may require any clarification on the registration process, or any other area related to JSWIFT, are invited to contact the JSWIFT Client Support Team at: [email protected] or [email protected], or by telephone: 876-750-3096-7, 876-750-3050 and 876-750-3099.
JSWIFT is a Government of Jamaica initiative with technical support being provided by the United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD).
Jamaica Single Window for Trade (JSWIFT) making strides
During the week of March 25 – 29, 2019 the World Customs Organisation through a Support Mission to the Jamaica Customs Agency in building a Single Window Environment, facilitated a one (1) week National Workshop on Single Window. The workshop was held at the Altamont Court Hotel in Kingston and saw thirty (30) participants in attendance representing employees from the
JCA, the BRAs, as well as representatives from the private sector.
Andre Williams (3rd left), Chief Information Officer, JCA, ‘zooms-in’ on his work, likewise Richard Browne (1st left), Functional Team Lead, JSWIFT, and Owen
Holder, then Programme Manager, for United Nation’s Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD).
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As a pathway to promoting sustainable growth and development, the Government of Jamaica is on a drive to reform the public service with the aim of making it more efficient and effective. The Jamaica Customs Agency (JCA), as a facilitator of trade and an agency involved in coordinated border management, deems the effective execution of its functions critical to the achievement of this objective.
The JCA , in its quest to become a national model organisation and a global leader in Customs Administration, is undertaking its own reform initiatives, to include the implementation of a Quality Management System (QMS), specifically, ISO 9001:2015, to realize superior governance, resource management and excellence in customer service delivery. The JCA identifies with the ISO 9001:2015 Standard since, at its core, this QMS supports the vision, mission and core values of the Agency.
Some of the key principles underpinning the implementation of the quality management system in the JCA are: Engagement of people and enhanced customer satisfaction by meeting the needs and expectations of internal and external stakeholders; employment of professional best practices in the execution of standardised processes and procedures; promotion of risk-based thinking throughout the Agency; enhance strategic management activities through evidence based decision making; and promotion of continuous improvement
JCA pursuing ISO certification – project team in place
Front row (from left ): Sean Barrow, ISO Project Director; Shornalee Jackson, Resource Person; Marlon Lowe, Deputy Commissioner (Operations) and Deputy Chairman.
Back Row (from left): Jonell Bailey, Project Manager; Celia Russell Henry, Project Manager; Lloyd MvcEwan Jnr, Project Manager; Biola Hardware, Project Manager;
Crystal Cunningham, Project Coordinator; Serina Cephas, Project Manager; Chriseve Bancroft-Smith, Project Manager; Marlon Roper, Project Manager.
Missing: Alwyn Nicely, Deputy Commissioner (Border Protection) and Chairman.
through a structured monitoring and evaluation framework for sustainability.
As quality is institutionalised in the JCA, the internal processes will become more harmonised, simplified, transparent and predictable. As a result, there is an expectation that customer complaints as well as internal breaches will be minimised.Through an enhanced Customer Relationship Management System, there is a guarantee that customer complaints as well as queries will be recorded, evaluated and resolved within the established charter standard time. Further, as a prerequisite of the ISO 9001:2015 Standard, the JCA is making strident steps towards greater control and management of information, records and documents. Additional benefits include improved communication and value creation for stakeholders as resources are optimally utilised and inefficiencies are minimised. These will ultimately strengthen stakeholder relationships and minimise the transaction costs for traders.
Already, the introduction of the Automated System for Customs Data, (ASYCUDA World) has contributed to a more streamlined process by facilitating twenty four hours electronic submission and processing of import and export declarations and related documents. This automated process is estimated to have saved traders approximately sixty six million for commercial declarations and twenty six million for non-commercial declarations annually.
The JCA has developed and approved a Quality Policy, integrated quality in corporate planning, improved its management review process, and the review and validation of the standard operating procedures are advanced. As the quality journey continues, the JCA demonstrates its confidence in getting to a point of global excellence by seeking to attain and maintain ISO 9001:2015 certification for the processing of people, cargo and carriers effective March 2021.
All adult passengers to Jamaica have a Duty Free Allowance of US$500 for personal and household effects. Minors are not entitled to this allowance
Customs Tip
ISO PROJECT TEAM
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British High Commissioner to Jamaica, Asif Ahmad, hands-over one of six Gas Analysers to Velma Ricketts Walker, CEO/Commissioner of Customs, during an official
meeting between the entities, on January 27, 2020.
CEO/Commissioner of Customs, Velma Ricketts Walker, and the British High Commissioner to Jamaica, Asif Ahmad ( 2nd left), examining one of the Gas Analysers. Also involved in the hand-over, were Deputy Commissioner of Border Protection, Alwyn
Nicely (1st left) and Marlon Lowe, Deputy Commissioner, Operations, JCA.
The Border Protection Division within the Jamaica Customs Agency (JCA) consists of five units which are primarily responsible for securing Jamaica’s air and sea ports from illicit trading activities, while ultimately protecting our people, society and economy. The units are the Contraband Enforcement Team, Intelligence Unit, Investigations Unit, Risk
Management Unit and Cargo Imaging Unit. Duties include, but are not limited to,
the examination of suspect cargo and conveyances, the execution of search warrants for uncustomed goods, the profiling and interception of high risk passengers, joint operations with other law enforcement partners.
BPU – What’s new on the scene?
The re-establishment of a Canine Unit is currently being pursued, and the construction of three marine bases (one already
operational in St. Mary) is one of the strategies being undertaken by the Agency, to bolster our border protection efforts.
The Jamaica Customs Agency, on January 27, 2020, received six (6) Gas Analysers from the United Kingdom Border Force (UKBF), which will go a far way in enhancing the work of the Agency. In addition to wearing protective gears, these Gas
Analysers, is yet another measure that will serve to further protect the health and safety of Customs Officers, as they will now be able to test the quality of air in containers or other sealed freight.
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Tax revenue is the cornerstone of the Jamaican Government’s capacity to create a safe, sustainable and prosperous society for its citizens. The Jamaica Customs Agency (JCA) is charged with the responsibility of equitably assessing and collecting the taxes on international trade. Currently, tax revenue from international trade accounts for 38.5% of the Government of Jamaica’s total tax revenue. At the end of FY2018/19, The JCA’s tax revenue outturn exceeded a $200B mark with net tax revenue collection of $207.9B. Additionally, the tax revenue target was achieved after eight years of below budgeted performance. Further, FY2018/19 recorded the second highest growth rate in tax revenue in the last eight years. The net tax revenue recorded growth of $18.058B or 9.5% from $189.880B in the previous fiscal year. Operational efficacy and a favourable macroeconomic environment contributed to this performance.
Despite local economic shocks, lower regional and global growth, trade tensions and greater commodity price volatility, the JCA’s revenue continued on the growth trajectory. At the end of December 2019, the tax revenue collected from international trade totalled $165.2B, having increased by $8.2B or 5.2% from $157.0B in FY2018/19. The revenue performance was buoyed by petroleum products, durable consumer goods to include motor vehicles, household appliances, cigarettes, alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages, communication apparatus and building materials- steel, cement, tiles and pitch-pine wood.
Amidst the dynamism and uncertainty of the domestic and global trading environment, the JCA is committed to at least maintaining its contribution to the total GOJ’s tax revenue as well as registering propitious growth in its tax revenue outturn year on year, thereby enabling the creation of greater fiscal space. An important strategy to achieving this objective is the fostering of voluntary compliance through stakeholder education and engagement, buttress by efficient processes and strong internal assurance mechanisms.
Tax evasion or revenue fraud denies the government of significant resources necessary for financing targeted social, economic and environmental programmes to build a resilient and prosperous economy for all. Every dollar lost in revenue is an opportunity forgone for improvement in the road and telecommunication infrastructure, health and education system, research, development and innovation- all of which are essential ingredients for fostering sustainability for people, prosperity and the planet. As such, the JCA is committed to continuously developing robust systems to detect contraventions of the Customs Act, regulation and affiliated legislations to, inter alia, safeguard the revenue.
The JCA – a significant contributor to GOJ’s socio-economic programmes
The importation of
charitable items to
schools must be
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Trust (NET) and/or the
Procurement Unit of the
Education Ministry
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The Jamaica Customs Agency has continued its thrust to reach its stakeholders, across the length and breadth of Jamaica, through its “Customs Meets the Community” initiative, which seeks to inform, educate and create awareness among its various stakeholders.
“Customs Meets the Community”continues islandwide
“Customs Meets the Community”continues islandwide
“Customs Meets the Community”
St. Thomas
St. Mary
Portmore
During 2019, the Agency visited Portmore, St. Catherine, Port Maria, St. Mary and Morant Bay, St. Thomas. Since the initiative started in 2017, the JCA has visited nine locations across Jamaica. The Agency will extend this initative to other parishes across the island.
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When launched on February 1, 2018 by the Trade Board Limited, on behalf of the Government of Jamaica, used motor vehicle pre-shipment inspection (PSI) was seen by many industry players as an unnecessary, bureaucratic step. Despite this, the programme has been notably successful with some industry players subsequently recognizing the benefits of PSI. Historically, Jamaica became the first Caribbean country to launch such a programme, with the Bahamas following suit one year later in 2019.
What is PSI?As the title suggests, used motor vehicle pre-shipment inspection (PSI) entails
the physical inspection of used motor vehicles by an expert independent third-party assessor agent, prior to the vehicles being loaded onto vessels to be transported to Jamaica. Autoterminal Japan Limited (ATJ) was contracted through The Trade Board Limited, on behalf of the Government of Jamaica, to conduct such inspections. Although headquartered in Japan, ATJ also has strategic PSI inspection points in other countries such as the United Kingdom, the United Arab Emirates, Singapore, and the USA, with inspection points determined based on the volume of demand for exports to Jamaica.
Pre-shipment inspection is aimed at consumer protection, environmental protection and fair trade. The due diligence process looks at a number of key metrics including history of vehicle, age of vehicle, roadworthiness, accurate odometer reading and critically, ensures the absence of biological contaminants (on June 1, 2019, The Trade Board Limited added the sanitisation component
of PSI, thus ensuring that vehicles, especially those from agricultural areas, are treated to prevent the spread of agricultural pests and diseases).
Benefits of PSIPSI has prevented undervaluation of vehicle invoices, entry of stolen vehicles
into the national fleet, odometer fraud, faulty vehicles, pests and diseases being imported. Prior to the implementation of PSI, used vehicles were being imported “sight unseen” with the possibility of questionable odometer readings, faulty parts, tyres, inter alia. Thus, PSI represents considerable action and initiative by the Jamaican government on behalf of its citizens.
The BIG pictureAn assessment of used motor vehicle licences issued by the Trade Board Limited
revealed that licences were approved for 37,511 used units during 2018, the year in which PSI was instituted. This figure represented a decline from 41,194 units in 2017. However, there was a subsequent recovery in volume with 44,550 used units being approved in 2019. This confirms that the used motor vehicle industry in Jamaica is growing steadily, with the added benefit of enhanced quality. While acknowledging that there were delays experienced by dealers and importers in the initial PSI phase, the issues nowadays are by comparison less frequent and less critical. As such, all in all, PSI has been of appreciable benefit to importers, whether dealers or individual consumers, the environment, the agricultural sector and the economy.
Pre-shipment inspection (PSI)Paving the way for safe and reliable used motor vehicle imports
Article contributed by the Trade Board Limited (TBL)
Organisations, requiring concessions under the Charities Act, must be registered with the Department of Cooperatives & Friendly Societies
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The Jamaica Customs Agency (JCA) recognises that strong partnerships with its stakeholders, through public education and other awareness building initiatives can have a transformational impact on compliance.
It is against this background that the JCA embarked on several stakeholder engagements during 2019, including: ‘ICT Day’, ‘Let’s Talk Valuation’ and an Anti-corruption Panel Discussion.
Reaching our stakeholders…through various foraReaching our stakeholders…through various foraReaching our stakeholders…
Goods imported with
a Cost, Insurance and
Freight (CIF) value
exceeding US$5000, must
be cleared by a licenced
Customs Broker
Anti-corruption Panel Discussion
ICT Day
Let’s Talk Valuation
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The Jamaica Customs Agency (JCA) is reminding customers that they can use its Customer Relationship and Feedback (Online) Platform to submit queries, make complaints, reports, suggestions, commendations and recommendations, as well as provide information involving bribery/corruption at its website: www.jacustoms.gov.jm. Customers are being assured that reports involving the latter are treated confidentially.
The provision of the Customer Relationship and Feedback Platform, is in keeping with the JCA’s thrust to improve service delivery to its customers, who are able to access this online portal from anywhere in the world.
The platform is also used by the Agency for gathering and analysing information, monitoring the Agency’s service standards and evaluating the effectiveness of Customs processes and procedures across the Agency. Thus, the feedback of customers is important.
The general features of the platform include:• The client’s contact information• The Customs station or place of interaction • The nature of the concern being put forward• The client’s experience/report/feedback
Customers may contact the JCA’s Customer Service Team at 876-922-5140-8, or email: [email protected] for any Customs related information. Customers may also visit the Customs head office at Myers’ Wharf, Newport East, Kingston 15.
Jamaica Customs encourages use of Customer Relationship and Feedback Platform
Damean Beckford, Manager, Entry Processing Unit, JCA, engages a customer during one of the Agency’s “Customs Meets the Community” parish engagements. This photo was the Agency’s entry into the World Customs Organisation’s
Photo Competition (2019).
All motor vehicles imported must be cleared by a licenced Customs Broker
The minimum cost to
clear a barrel containing
personal and household
effects is $6500,00.00
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In keeping with the Agency’s Trade Facilitation mandate, the Jamaica Customs Agency, led by the CEO/Commissioner of Customs, Velma Ricketts Walker, has boosted its efforts to engage traders and manufacturers, with a view to learn more about their business operations and how as an Agency, we can better meet their needs and serve them more efficiently.
In this regard, the Customs team visited the facility of Nation’s Choice Manufacturing and Distribution Plant, in Clarendon, in October 2019, where its Chief Executive Officer, Donald McDonald, led a tour of the facility. Here are a few highlights of that visit...
JCA enhancing business relationships through insight…
Donald McDonald, CEO of Nation’s Choice, making a point to the Commissioner of Customs, Velma Ricketts Walker, during a tour of the facility.
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As the Jamaica Customs Agency (JCA) continues its thrust to improve its overall efficiency, the entity continues to boost its capacity to identify and combat risks that can serve to undermine its border protection capabilities and the country’s overall security.
• What is Risk Management?• What are the benefits of using a risk-based approach?• How does it impact border protection?• How does it foster compliance?
The success of Customs administrations worldwide, depends on an effective Risk Management System. The Risk Management Unit of the JCA is responsible for implementing risk management plans and processes which involves gathering and collating information; identifying, analysing and reporting areas of risk; developing targets and profiles; establishing and maintaining a risk management database; and monitoring the application of risk management remedies across the Agency.
Risk-based Approach The risk-based approach adopted
by the JCA emphasises that border protection has to remain a priority, while facilitating the legitimate movement of cargo and passengers. The risk-based approach is primarily data-driven, as data analysis, is critical to the risk management process. The purpose of risk analysis is to separate low risks from high risks and to provide data to assist in the assessment and treatment of the risks identified.
Risk Management, Border Protection and Fostering Compliance
The JCA places Risk Management as a focal point of its operations and has formulated an Agency Risk Management Policy (2014) in order to ensure that practices are aligned with the Revised Kyoto Convention (RKC) and other international benchmark guidelines, such as the World Customs Organisation’s (WCO) SAFE Framework of Standards and the Revised Arusha Declaration.
The JCA’s Risk Management Policy (2014) involves the following:
• Application of r isk management techniques which will strengthen the resilience of the organisation and ensure integrity and ethics standards are upheld. It allows the Agency to use risk-based information to make strategic and proactive decisions.
• Implementation of a structure that supports risk
management and which ensures that employees have a clear understanding of the nature of the risks in their areas, and are able to systematically identify, analyse, prioritise and develop treatment programmes to mitigate those risks.
• Provision of suitable and timely training for staff.• Adoption of the latest Customs technologies,
automation of key Customs processes and increased reliance on effective post clearance audit techniques.
• Use of non-intrusive examination techniques, such as cargo imaging (screening) and the use of profiling of high-risk cargo and passengers. Another mechanism is the application of a uniformed approach to risk management, such as the Risk Register Template.
• Fostering compliance, through simplification and
automation of processes, through the revamped Authorised Economic Operator (AEO) programme and the implementation of the Customs Automated System, allowing for greater predictability and faster processing of cargo.
Additionally, the Agency continues to be proactive in seeking to reduce and eliminate illegal activities that threaten the economic stability and safety of our people, including detecting and seizing counterfeit goods.
The JCA wishes to reassure our stakeholders that the Agency remains committed to securing Jamaica’s ports and keeping our people, society and economy safe from illegal imports and trading activities.
JCA promoting risk-based approach in protecting country’s borders and fostering compliance
JCA promoting risk-based approach in protecting country’s borders and fostering compliance
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Have you ever heard of a scenario where an importer/trader or anyone involved in the importation of goods is subject to a ‘post clearance audit’ which is conducted by auditors of the Jamaica Customs Agency? Maybe your answer is ‘yes’ or possibly, ‘no’.
The practice of conducting audits has been in existence for many years. In this article, the Jamaica Customs Agency (JCA), will examine the Post Clearance Audit (PCA) process and will provide information geared at improving the knowledge of “Customs audit” and its potential benefits to the trading community.
In today’s international trade environment, Customs administrations worldwide, are expected to operate efficiently and effectively. With the ever increasing demand for expedited clearance processes, Post Clearance Audits have been a proven risk management strategy that offers a balance of public protection with the fostering of Customs compliance amongst the private sector.
What is Post Clearance Audit?Post Clearance Audits are measures by which Customs
satisfies itself as to the accuracy and authenticity of Declarations, through the examination of the relevant books, records, business systems and commercial data held by persons and companies conducting international trade. This exercise is usually conducted at the premises of the trader or where necessary, at the desk of the Auditor based on the nature and scope of the audit being undertaken.
This authority to conduct PCA is contained within: 1. Section 223 of the Customs Act, which provides
the right to examine business records, business systems and commercial data relevant to Customs declarations.
2. Section 17(I) of the Revenue Administration Act, confers the right of Customs and Revenue Officers to conduct audits, investigations and inspections on books, records and properties of taxpayers, whether they are importing or exporting entities, or otherwise.
Checks and BalancesPost Clearance Audit is a means to measure and
encourage compliance by traders as the results are used as part of the risk management cycle and will assist the JCA to determine what levels of control or checks are required at the borders for future declarations. This exercise will enhance how trade is facilitated at the borders, as Customs can focus its attention on declarations that pose the greatest risk to border, society and revenue, while allowing low risk declarations to move seamlessly through the ports.
What are the common check areas involved in PCA?
• Compliance with tariff requirements• Compliance with valuation provisions • Compliance with ‘rules of origin’ requirements• Compliance with other Customs programmes
e.g. private bonded warehouse requirements or duty free regimes
• As an importer/trader it is crucial that you keep the necessary accounting books and records
that will facilitate a Customs review to include the following:
• Purchase/sales contracts• Shipping/Transport documents• Purchase orders• Invoices • Receiving reports• Debit/credit notes• General Journal• General Ledger• Subsidiary Journal• Subsidiary Ledgers• Financial statements
The benefits to be derived from confirmation of compliance include:
1. Receiving benefits under the Authorised Economic Operator status.
2. Facilitating compliant traders at the point of Customs clearance (that is, utilising more risk-based analysis).
3. Enabling Jamaica Customs to gain a better understanding of clients’ business operations.
How will I know that I am being audited?The JCA through its Post Clearance Audit Unit will
notify companies of their selection for audit, and will provide written request for meetings and the production of the required books and records. The Post Clearance Audit Unit operates from both Kingston and Montego Bay and provides islandwide coverage for all audit based exercises.
Why is my company being audited by Customs?
As part of our Trade Facilitation mandate, the Jamaica Customs Agency hosted a Post Clearance Audit Symposium on Friday, October 11, 2019 under the theme “Promoting Compliance through Education and Trade Facilitation.” This stakeholder engagement was aimed at educating the business community about Post Clearance Audit procedures and processes.
A post clearance audit is a structured examination of the importer’s relevant commercial systems and processes, financial and non-financial records, physical stock and other assets, as a means to measure and improve compliance. It is conducted after the release of the goods from Customs’ control. The purpose of the post clearance audit is to verify the accuracy and authenticity of Declarations and other Returns made to Jamaica Customs.
Post Clearance Audit Symposium
Neil Smith, participant, making a point at the symposium Velma Ricketts Walker, CEO/Commisioner of Customs, addressing the audience at the symposium
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23ICT - making a difference in service delivery
For the first time, in 2019, the Agency hosted its ‘ICT Day’, which highlighted how the use of Information Communication Technology serves to enhance service delivery within the Agency. A key highlight of the day
was a ‘Virtual Reality Experience’ room which showcased various aspects of Customs processes, such as cargo and passenger clearance.
Here are some highlights...Here are some highlights...
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024 Serving You ...
Our Business, Our Mandate
Give Us Your Feedback Or Send Us a Query...Visit our Customer Relationship and
Feedback Platform or talk to us online via Live Chat at
www.jacustoms.gov.jm
