NAME OF FEATURE | THE GLEANER | SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 2, 2025 42 collaboration The Customs Business Interaction (CBI) is an initiative of the Office of the CEO/Commissioner of Customs which is executed by the Trade Facilitation & Special Projects Office. The CBI is a trade facilitation initiative with a difference; whereby, the Agency engages with stakeholders in their business environment making it one of comfort and one where the stakeholder can demonstrate to Customs how their company fits into the trade environment and how customs processes if not delivered efficiently could impact their business. Customs in executing on its mandates must learn as much as possible about business needs and expectations to be able to respond to them effectively. The CBI provides a direct approach and engagement which involves the CEO/Commissioner of Customs and a small technical team visiting the company and discussing matters pertaining to business processes, customs processes, compliance and regulatory matters, new market developments and customs requirements, among other topics as required by the stakeholder. The visits also involve tour of facilities to include factories, warehouses or farms where the company can further highlight their business operations and demonstrate to Customs first-hand what they do and indicate any Customs issues that may impact their processes. The JCA will examine the matters highlighted with a view to providing clarity and feedback as well as identifying any opportunities for continuous improvement as it executes its mandate of trade facilitation, border protection and revenue collection. Since inception in 2022, the CBI has generated significant interest across several sectors to include the manufacturing sector, and companies with Authorised Economic Operator (AEO) status. The JCA has been lauded for this initiative which provides an opportunity for better understanding of the role of customs and for customs to appreciate businesses and their need for modern and efficient processes which hinges on technology. The CBI is not restricted to any specific geographical location across Jamaica and the CEO along with the team have visited several parishes across the island. Having a CBI visit for your organization signals to the JCA your commitment to continuous improvement as well as your efforts towards strengthening your customs compliance systems. IS THE CBI FOR YOUR BUSINESS? CHECK OUT THE BELOW BENEFITS FROM THIS ENGAGEMENT: • Enhanced Compliance: The CBI provides a platform for the JCA to further educate stakeholders through the discussions thus creating an avenue for better customs compliance management for businesses. • Improved Efficiency: through this engagement, the JCA can better understand the clients that they serve and where improvements are required the necessary steps can be taken to address the issue(s). • Strengthened Partnerships: The CBI offers an opportunity for collaborative efforts between customs and businesses which fosters trust and cooperation which can lead to a more seamless customs process. As a member of the World Customs Organization (WCO) the Agency continuously places value on the needs and requirements of its customers and stakeholders. If you are interested in the Customs Business Interaction (CBI) for your organisation, you may send an email to the JCA at tfsp@jca. gov.jm. Article by Trade Facilitation & Special Projects Unit Jamaica Customs Agency INTERNATIONAL CUSTOMS DAY/CUSTOMS WEEK FEATURE The team from Jamaica Customs Agency lead by Dr. Velma Ricketts Walker CD, JP, CEO/Commissioner pause for a photo at a recently held CBI at Walkerswood Caribbean Food. The CBI was facilitated by CEO Mr. Ian Garbutt and General Manager Mr. Jason Garbutt. The CEO/Commissioner of Customs Dr. Velma Ricketts Walker CD, JP, sit down with Mr. Sydney Thwaites, Managing Director at Lubricating Specialities Company for a CBI chat. CEO/Commissioner of Customs Dr. Velma Ricketts Walker CD, JP and her team had a sit down with the executives from Coldfield Manufacturing Ltd. The team was led by Mr. Ian Wong – Chairman and Mr. Brett Wong – Managing Director. CEO/Commissioner of Customs Dr. Velma Ricketts Walker CD, JP, along with Mr. Omar Azan - CEO, and Mr. Dominic Azan-Executive from BOSS Furniture at a recent CBI.
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