The Jamaica Customs Agency (JCA) values the input of its various stakeholders, and has therefore introduced and implemented several ways to engage with them, with the most recent initiative being the Customs Business Interaction (CBI) stakeholder engagement.
Lead by the Office of the Chief Executive Officer, the CBI, seeks to strengthen the relationship between the Jamaica Customs Agency and its commercial/industrial stakeholders through face-to-face interactions with executive members of both entities.
On February 16, 2023, members of the JCA, led by the CEO/Commissioner of Customs Mrs. Velma Ricketts Walker, executed another successful CBI initiative with the executive team of the Walkerswood Jerk Facility in Walkerswood, St. Ann.
Managing Director of Walkerswood, Mr. Ian Garbutt and his team, were able share the ‘highs and lows’ of their business interactions with Customs and also indicated what they believe the JCA could do to enhance the business operations of entities such as Walkerswood, the sector/market and the economy in general. The CEO and members of the JCA team also used the opportunity to provide further information and clarity on Customs-related processes and procedures relevant to Walkerswood and the sector.
The discussion involved the various incentives provided by the JCA, such as the Productive Inputs Relief (PIR) program, which allows manufacturers to receive exemption from Import Duty, Additional Stamp Duty and Standard Compliance Fee; deferment of the General Consumption Tax (GCT); and 50% discount of Customs Administrative Fee (CAF). Incentives offered to entities, under the Special Economic Zone (SEZ) Act were also discussed.
Emanating from the discussion was a proposal from the Walkerswood head, for SEZ operators to receive the benefits that fall under the Authorized Economic Operator (AEO) program. Special Economic Zone operators are able to benefit from a relief of Customs Duty. The AEO program allows compliant traders who have met the requisite criteria under that program, to experience faster clearance and processing.
Beneficiaries of these incentive programs are reminded that adhering to the relevant guidelines is paramount for being afforded the continued privilege.
As the JCA seeks to “Keep Our Customers in Focus”, the Agency will continue to utilize several channels to engage with its stakeholders, as it provides information and importantly, solicit their feedback.
For more information on the JCA’s Incentives Program you may email: public.relations@jca.gov.jm or telephone: 876 922-5140-8.
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