NAME OF FEATURE | THE GLEANER | SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 1, 2026 7 INTERNATIONAL CUSTOMS DAY/CUSTOMS WEEK FEATURE | THE SUNDAY GLEANER | FEBRUARY 1, 2026 recovery flows when needed This is why the WCO’s theme is so important: it reframes Customs in the public mind – not as a “transactional” border agency, but as a protective institution, working daily to preserve the conditions for national wellbeing. PARTNERSHIP, COLLABORATION, AND DIALOGUE: OUR STRENGTH No single agency can protect society alone. The modern border is a complex system that requires a coordinated response – across government, law enforcement, security agencies, regulators, port and logistics operators, and the trading community. In 2025, the JCA strengthened stakeholder engagement and operational coordination through structured dialogue with industry associations, brokers, freight forwarders, trade bodies, border regulatory agencies, and international counterparts. These partnerships helped align compliance expectations, identify process improvements, and build shared responsibility for national outcomes. We also made progress on the Customs Act 2025, an important step toward a modern, harmonised legislative framework that supports innovation, facilitates trade, strengthens enforcement, and positions Jamaica for the changing demands of global commerce. Partnership is not a slogan – it is a strategy. It is how we amplify impact, deepen trust, and secure Jamaica’s future. Revenue Performance: Supporting National Development Customs protection also includes safeguarding the nation’s fiscal stability. The JCA remains a principal contributor to the government’s revenue performance and national development. For the period January to December 2025, the JCA collected $303 billion in revenue, comprising $282 billion in tax revenue and $21 billion in non-tax revenue, with an additional $6.267 billion from Customs interventions. This demonstrates the Agency’s strategic role in supporting public services, infrastructure, and national development priorities. A MESSAGE OF APPRECIATION AND A CALL FORWARD As we celebrate International Customs Day and reflect on the past year, we reaffirm our dedication to vigilance, integrity, innovation, and partnership. We will continue to strengthen collaboration with government agencies and private-sector partners, leverage technology, and uphold the highest standards of accountability. To our stakeholders: thank you for your cooperation and constructive engagement. Your feedback enhances policy development, guides service improvements, and supports a Customs environment rooted in fairness and efficiency. To the dedicated staff of the Jamaica Customs Agency: thank you for your vigilance, commitment, professionalism, and integrity. Your work often happens behind the scenes, yet it provides real protection and genuine value to Jamaica every day. As we observe International Customs Day and Customs Week 2026, let us reaffirm our collective commitment to: • Protect society through disciplined vigilance • Facilitate legitimate trade through modern, efficient service • Uphold integrity and quality as a national asset • Strengthen partnerships as the foundation for safer borders and greater prosperity Together, we will continue to defend Jamaica, strengthen supply chains, support national growth, and provide world-class Customs service – with vigilance, dedication, and purpose.
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