International Customs Day & Week 2022

NAME OF FEATURE | THE GLEANER | SUNDAY, JANUARY 30, 2022 3 Messages O N JANUARY 26 each year, under the auspices of the World Customs rganisation, Customs administra- tions globally observe International Customs Day. It is a worthy occasion that allows the Jamaica Customs Agency to highlight its contribu- tions to border security, economic development and trade. Since the enactment of the Customs Act in 1877, the Jamaica Customs Agency has advanced sig- nificantly and has cemented its place in the Jamaican society. You have distinguished yourselves as a key contributor to the nation’s growth by supporting Jamaica in the execution of your strategic objectives. Thethemeof thisyear’s International Customs Day, ‘Scaling up Customs Digital Transformation by Embracing a Data Culture and Building a Data Ecosystem’, is most appropriate as we have had to transformour operations to meet the demands of the rapidly changing digital landscape amid the ongoingpandemic environment. Over the years, the Jamaica Customs Agency has successfully embraced digital technology. Building a data ecosystemwill intro- duce infrastructure and applications that will enable the organisation to better analyse information, improve strategies and processes and better serve its customers. I commend you for your con- tinued commitment to protecting our ports, facilitating trade and supplying the needs of our citizens. Although there will be challenges, I encourage you to continue the good work. I wish you a successful Customs Week and hope this year’s theme will be realised and achieved through the collaborative efforts of all stakeholders. HIS EXCELLENCY THE MOST HONOURABLE SIR PATRICK ALLEN ON, GCMG, CD, KSt.J Governor General Commendations for your commitment to protecting our ports His Excellency The Most Honourable Sir Patrick Allen ON, GCMG, CD, KSt.J THE JAMAICA Customs Agency (JCA) has had a long history of protecting our borders, improving revenue collection and facilitating international trade. From its genesis at the Inland Revenue Department in 1985, Jamaica Customs has over the years transformed into an organisation with the values of accountability, professionalism, I wish the JCA and its partners continued success The Most Hon Andrew Holness, ON, PC, MP Prime Minister PLEASE SEE PARTNERS, 6 CUSTOMS WEEK