NAME OF FEATURE | THE GLEANER | SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 1, 2026 49 INTERNATIONAL CUSTOMS DAY/CUSTOMS WEEK FEATURE | THE SUNDAY GLEANER | FEBRUARY 1, 2026 IN TODAY’S interconnected global economy, the protection of society requires constant vigilance at national borders; not only against illicit goods, but also against biological threats that can undermine agriculture, food security, and environmental sustainability. Under the theme, ‘Customs Protecting Society Through Vigilance and Commitment,’ the work of Plant Quarantine Produce Inspection (PQPI) stands as a critical complement to the mandate of the Jamaica Customs Agency, safeguarding Jamaica from the introduction of exotic pests and diseases. JAMAICA’S FIRST LINE OF DEFENCE Plant Quarantine Produce Inspection (PQPI) is Jamaica’s first line of defence against the introduction of exotic pests and diseases. The Unit is mandated to ensure that only the highest quality, pest-free cut flowers, fresh produce and other regulated articles are exported from and imported into the island. Through rigorous inspection, certification, and enforcement of phytosanitary standards, PQPI plays a vital role in protecting Jamaica’s agricultural sector and maintaining confidence in international trade. PQPI operates under the legal framework of the Agricultural Produce Act, 1926 and the Plants (Quarantine) Act, 1993, which provide the authority to regulate the importation and exportation of plants, plant products, and other regulated articles. The branch is also recognised internationally as an accredited Inspection Body for Export Services under the ISO/ IEC 17020 standard. The Branch currently offers services such as: a. Export Inspection and Certification – Onsite and Offsite Inspections* b. Fumigation Services* c. Packing House Inspection* d. Field Inspection* e. Heat Treatment Inspection* f. Import Inspection – Onsite and Offsite Inspections g. Vessel Inspections – Cargo, Aircraft, Passenger h. Pest Risk Analysis i. Citrus Certification j. Seed Certification k. Import Permit *Please note services listed a-e are ISO/IEC 17020: 2012 certified. The Unit’s head office is located at 193 Old Hope Road, serving as the overall administrative centre for operations at the two export complexes one at the Norman Manley International Airport and the other at the Sangster International Airport with supporting outstations located at the Rada Office in Mandeville, servicing the parishes of St. Elizabeth and Clarendon; Port Antonio and Ocho Rios. These outstations facilitate non-commercial export inspections of plant products such as dried herbs and participate in collaborative border protection activities. VIGILANCE AT THE BORDER: A SHARED RESPONSIBILITY Working in close collaboration with Jamaica Customs, PQPI officers operate at ports of entry, export complexes, and inspection points where international goods and passenger baggage enter the country. This partnership reflects a shared commitment to vigilance ensuring that high-risk pathways such as fresh produce, seeds, planting material, and undeclared agricultural items are properly screened. Illegal importation of plant and plant products poses a serious risk, as pests and diseases can easily be introduced through non-compliant items. The public is therefore strongly encouraged not to “pack a pest” by bringing agricultural items into Jamaica illegally. IMPORT PERMITS: PROTECTING AGRICULTURE THROUGH COMPLIANCE To safeguard against the introduction and establishment of quarantine pests, members of the public and commercial importers are required to apply for an import permit before importing plants or plant products into Jamaica. Import permits outline the specific phytosanitary conditions that must be met to allow safe entry of regulated items. Import permit applications can be conveniently submitted through the JSWIFT platform (jswift.gov.jm), Jamaica’s single electronic trade window. By using this official channel, importers contribute directly to national biosecurity, support efficient border processing, and reduce the risk of pest incursions that could threaten local production and livelihoods. STRENGTHENING SURVEILLANCE THROUGH TECHNOLOGY In support of early detection and rapid response, PQPI has enhanced its surveillance systems through the installation of smart traps at ports of entry and in key agricultural production areas. These traps enable real-time monitoring and early warning for the presence of quarantine pests, allowing swift intervention before pests can become established. This proactive use of technology demonstrates PQPI’s commitment to continuous improvement and aligns with Customs’ broader mission to protect society through modern, intelligence-driven border management. Plant Quarantine Produce Inspection remains a vital partner in Jamaica’s border protection framework. Through strong legislation, public engagement, technological innovation, and close collaboration with Jamaica Customs and other border agencies, PQPI exemplifies vigilance and commitment in action. By applying for import permits, complying with regulations, and avoiding illegal imports, the public plays an essential role in protecting Jamaica’s agriculture, environment, and future prosperity. Together, Plant Quarantine Jamaica and Jamaica Customs continues to hold strong to the mission, “protecting plants, protecting life.” Submission by Plant Quarantine Produce Inspection Branch PLANT QUARANTINE JAMAICA Protecting society through vigilance and commitment Plant Quarantine Produce Inspection (PQPI) is Jamaica’s first line of defence against the introduction of exotic pests and diseases. The Unit is mandated to ensure that only the highest quality, pest-free cut flowers, fresh produce and other regulated articles are exported from and imported into the island. Through rigorous inspection, certification, and enforcement of phytosanitary standards, PQPI plays a vital role in protecting Jamaica’s agricultural sector and maintaining confidence in international trade.
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