Jamaica Customs Agency

NAME OF FEATURE | THE GLEANER | FRIDAY, JANUARY 29, 2021 5 The most cutting edge techniques and superior products for construction, pharmaceutical or food grade and more. www.lydfordmining.com CUSTOMS W EK M E S S A G E S T HE PORT Authority of Jamaica (the Authority) applauds the JamaicaCustoms Agency (JCA) for its stellar contribution to the Jamaicaneconomy as International Customs Day is being observed. Global maritime trade has been impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic which has taken a toll on supply chains and ports. As governments around the world are implementing measures to contain this public health crisis, the need for improved tech- nology and systems have come to the forefront. There has been increased reliance on technology by both the JCA and the Authority as industry stakeholders are utilising the JCA’s Automated System for Customs Data (ASYCUDA World) and the Port Community System (PCS), which is an electronic platform implemented by the Authority to improve transparency and reduce the use of paper within the maritime industry. The PCS Project has progressed significantly over the last few months. Currently, the sharing of both import and export manifests to the PCS by Shipping Agents for onward submission to the JCA has been achieved. On May 1, 2020, the JCA ceased processing of Dock Receipts and this has resulted in Terminal Operators using the PCS to ascertain if export containers are duly authorised by the JCA to enter the Ports. Additionally, the implementation of the Truck Appointment System aims to address the scheduling and congestion challenges within the Port Community over time. These innovations have allowed for the regular flow of cargo through our ports. The cruise industry is a key business segment for the Authority. Cruising has been at a standstill since the onset of COVID-19 halted cruise operations in March 2020. Presently, there are uncertainties surrounding a definite timeline for the resumption of cruise activities; however, the Authority has begun collaborative efforts with key government agencies, including the Jamaica Customs Agency, to ensure facilities are suited to host visitors accord- ing to the new health guidelines and protocols in preparation for the resumption of cruising. The authority recognises the need to adapt while preparing for the post-COVID-19 era and will con- tinue to support the Jamaica Customs Agency in fulfilling itsmandate during these challenging times. GORDON SHIRLEY CEO/President, Port Authority of Jamaica Stellar contribution to Jamaican economy A S THE world observes International Customs Day on January 26, 2021, the Jamaica Manufacturers and Exporters’ Association (JMEA) extends commendations to the Jamaica Customs Agency (JCA) for its role in revenue collection and border protection for Jamaica. The theme selected for this year’s celebration, ‘Customs Bolstering Recovery, Renewal and Resilience for a Sustainable SupplyChain’, ismost apt. It is anunequivocal pronouncement on the direction within which Jamaica must move if we are serious about strengtheningdomesticand international trade facilitation. The JCA’s transformation from a revenue collectionmandate to trade facilitation is required to create a sharper recovery from the pandemic disruption and to assist in the contribution to national development goals which will enhance the qual- ity of life for all Jamaicans. This transformation will require a joined-up approach and the unwavering collaboration of all stakeholders, of which the JMEA is very committed. The JMEA wishes the JCA a successful and instructive week of activities. We also thank your team for its continued com- mitment, and look forward to working even more closely together to accelerate Jamaica’s economic recovery. RICHARD PANDOHIE President, Jamaica Manufacturers and Exporters Association Thanks for continued commitment