NAME OF FEATURE | THE GLEANER | SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 2, 2025 4 INTERNATIONAL CUSTOMS DAY/CUSTOMS WEEK FEATURE IT IS with great pleasure that I join the Jamaica Customs Agency (JCA) and the global customs community in celebrating International Customs Day 2025. This year’s theme, “Customs Delivering on its Commitment to Efficiency, Security and Prosperity,” highlights the indispensable role of customs administrations worldwide in fostering secure and efficient trade, enabling economic growth, and contributing to national development. The Jamaica Customs Agency is a cornerstone of our nation’s economic resilience. Its responsibilities extend beyond revenue collection to include protecting our borders from illicit activities and facilitating international trade. These roles are vital to maintaining national security, encouraging compliance, and ensuring Jamaica remains an attractive destination for business. Over the years, the JCA has demonstrated its commitment to modernization and innovation. From embracing cutting-edge technology to implementing innovative solutions, the JCA continues to refine its operations for efficiency and convenience. Such advancements not only streamline trade but also position Jamaica as a leader in regional logistics. As we look ahead, it is imperative that we continue to support the JCA in its journey toward modernisation. I eagerly anticipate further amendments to the Customs Act, which will further empower the agency to fulfil its mandate and unlock Jamaica’s potential as a Global Logistics Hub. Jamaica is a developing state, and international trade is essential to our economy. It provides access to goods that are not produced locally and opportunities to export our products and services. Our strategic geographic location offers a unique advantage, and the JCA’s efforts are critical to maximizing these opportunities while ensuring trade processes remain secure and transparent. On this special day, I extend heartfelt gratitude to the management and staff of the JCA for their dedication and professionalism. Your efforts to sustain a modern customs administration are key to Jamaica’s continued growth and prosperity. I am confident that your tradition of excellence will endure for generations to come. Happy International Customs Day 2025! MARK J. GOLDING, MP Leader of the Opposition JAMAICA CUSTOMS IS A CORNERSTONE OF OUR NATION’S ECONOMIC RESILIENCE THE JAMAICA Customs Agency (JCA) continues to play an indispensable role in the safeguarding of our nation, enabling and sustaining economic growth, and fostering national development. As we commemorate International Customs Day 2025 under the theme, ‘Customs Delivering on its Commitment to Efficiency, Security, and Prosperity’, it is an opportune moment to reflect on the critical contributions of Customs to our country’s development. The JCA has been steadfast in embracing technology, innovation, and collaboration to meet the demands of a dynamic global trade environment. Whether through facilitating legitimate trade, combating illicit activities, or contributing significantly to government revenue, the work of Customs impacts the lives of every Jamaican. The Prime Minister’s ASPIRE framework – Access to economic opportunity, Safety and security, People and human capital development, Infrastructure development, Reform of bureaucracy, and Economic diversification – aligns perfectly with the JCA’s mission. Customs facilitates economic access by enabling trade, ensuring safety through border security, investing in its people through training and development, modernising infrastructure to enhance efficiency, driving reforms to improve the ease of doing business, and supporting economic diversification by enabling new industries to thrive. Additionally, the recently announced Streaming Processes for Efficiency and Economic Development (SPEED) Task Force complements the work of the JCA by driving improvements in service delivery, productivity, equity, and efficiency. Together, these initiatives will strengthen Jamaica’s position as a transshipment port for trade and also as a beacon of security in the region. As we observe this important day and the week of activities that follow, I urge us all to reflect on the significance of the JCA’s work and the impact it has on our nation’s prosperity. Let us continue to support the efforts of the Jamaica Customs Agency as it delivers on its commitment to efficiency, security, and prosperity for all Jamaicans. On behalf of the Ministry of Finance and the Public Service, I extend heartfelt gratitude to the leadership and staff of the JCA for their unwavering dedication and service. May God continue to bless you in your mission to build a brighter future for Jamaica. Thank you. THE HON FAYVAL WILLIAMS, MP Minister of Finance and the Public Service JAMAICA CUSTOMS IMPACTS THE LIVES OF EVERY JAMAICAN
RkJQdWJsaXNoZXIy MTUzNTI=