Jamaica Customs Agency

NAME OF FEATURE | THE GLEANER | FRIDAY, JANUARY 29, 2021 9 CUSTOMS W EK even more relevant. The more recent WCO E-Framework of Standards on Cross Border E-Commerce is another tool that addresses security and facilita- tion in the context of this emerging supply chain trend. Its implementa- tion is encouraged for allWCOmem- bers, especially due to the increase in e-commerce observed during the pandemic. Aligned with the WCO Council Decisions on e-commerce and passenger flows, the JCA has become more technology-based in its approach to essential Customs operations such as passenger pro- cessing and goods clearance. The Express Cargo Clearance Procedure (ECCP) for the processing and clear- ance of personal shipments mini- mises physical contact during this pandemic, and serves to facilitate transactions below an established minimal threshold. The JCA, in seeking to ensure accessibility of its online services, has ensured that they are availa- ble at no data charge. The ability to do business with the JCA is also enhanced by its online payment options such as e-payment, direct bank transfer and prepayment ser- vices. In addition, the JCA has lever- aged the benefits of telecommuting where feasible, which has shifted how many Customs processes are conducted. This has promoted an environment of greater safety for internal and external clients, and greater efficiency in the agency’s processes. Customers can now benefit from online scheduling of appointments through Microsoft Bookings, which facilitates interac- tions with Customs in areas such as valuation, post clearance audit, broker ID sessions and the process- ing of returning residents. RENEWAL BY EMBRACING ADVANCED TECHNOLOGIES Never before has the use of tech- nology been more essential to sur- vival than during this pandemic. Embracing technology became a way of life and should be treated as crucial to the renewal process. Things cannot return to the way they were pre COVID-19, and ad- vancing technology as the way for- ward and investing in innovation should be prioritised by all nations. For years the WCO has promoted all-digital and paperless clearance processes and the use of technology for implementing effective controls, while facilitating and accelerating the trading process. While this is nothing new, the COVID-19 pan- demic has certainly amplified the need for linking technology to cre- ating a more efficient international trading process. Benefits that can be derived from the integration of technologies were always priori- tised by the WCO and shared with its members through sensitisations, specialised forums and conferences. The use of big data, telematics and the Cloud in Customs opera- tions have been topics of ongoing training that is available to all WCO members, and will continue to com- mand importance in the realm of capacity building. With fresh eyes, Customs will enter the future and continue to utilise non-intrusive in- spection devices, and embark on the mainstream implementation of disruptive technologies such as blockchain, artificial intelligence, sensors and connected objects. By embracing technological advances, tangible benefits can be provided in terms of collecting, combining, sharing and analysing data which should be maximised by all officials. As a member of theWCO, the JCA benefits from and prioritises the use of technological advancements to facilitate Customs operations in an efficient manner. The JCA has long seen the importance of integrating technology in its operations, and is deliberate in its drive towards incorporating the latest technol- ogies, within its resources, to aid in the renewal process. The use of electronic platforms and online channels serve to greater secure and facilitate trade, directly benefit- ing the JCA’s stakeholders. The JCA is the lead agency for The Jamaica Single Window for Trade (JSWIFT), which is an electronic platform that allows traders to submit transac- tional information through a single access point, providing services to support regulatory requirements for cross-border trade in Jamaica. This facilitates a one stop shop for all regulatory requirements in collaboration with the issuing gov- ernment ministry, department or agency. The JCA has also partnered with the Jamaica Trade and Invest (formerly JAMPRO) to provide cli- ent service support to registered exporters in preparing commer- cial export declarations within its Automated System for Customs Data (ASYCUDA World). Another collaboration of the JCA is with the Port Authority of Jamaica on the integration of the Port Community PLEASE SEE SUPPLY , 11