NAME OF FEATURE | THE GLEANER | SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 1, 2026 13 INTERNATIONAL CUSTOMS DAY/CUSTOMS WEEK FEATURE | THE SUNDAY GLEANER | FEBRUARY 1, 2026 (ASYCUDA), the Jamaica Single Window for Trade (JSWIFT), to risk management and post clearance modules, the JCA strives to ensure that all systems are carefully curated, operational and maintained in a timely manner. Integration across systems is also facilitated, for example between ASYCUDA and JSWIFT, and the Port Community System (PCS). Other key ICT achievements enabling enhanced border security includes the collaboration between the JCA and the Passport, Immigration & Citizenship Agency (PICA) in the form of the electronic C5 Passenger Declaration, the Customs Mobile App and the new Jamaica Customs Agency website. International Standards In a nod to the importance of maintaining high standards and demonstrating commitment to quality and continuous improvement, the JCA sought, obtained and has maintained international accreditation in the form of ISO 9001:2015 Quality Management Systems certification. The certification was obtained on April 18, 2023, making the agency the first English-speaking Customs administration in the region to do so, demonstrating commitment to upholding international best-practices in Customs operations, including regulatory compliance. This certification ensures that every process – from revenue collection to border enforcement is standardised and auditable. The emphasis on continuous improvement also enhances the agency’s contribution to national security and economic development. Coordinated Border Management Protecting the nation’s borders is a huge undertaking and cuts across many border regulatory agencies (BRAs). The most efficient way of accomplishing this is through coordinated border management (CBM), which is a collaborative approach by BRAs in managing trade and travel flows, while ensuring compliance requirements are met. The JCA has embraced CBM and works in coordination with several other BRAs, such as the Ministry of Health & Wellness (e.g. Standards & Regulations Division, Pesticides Control Authority), Ministry of Industry Investment & Commerce (e.g. Bureau of Standards Jamaica, Food Storage & Prevention of Infestation Division), Ministry of National Security (e.g. Jamaica Constabulary Force, Jamaica Defence Force, Major Organised Crime & Anti-corruption Agency), Ministry of Finance & the Public Service (e.g. the Financial Investigations Division), as well as other local and international partners. These collaborations result in coordinated inspections, inter-agency data sharing and collaboration, and international co-
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