Our strong and dedicated Customs Agency is what defines our economic strength

The Jamaica Manufacturers and Exporters Association (JMEA) is pleased to be celebrating International Customs Day under the theme, “Nurturing the Next Generation: Promoting a Culture of Knowledgesharing and Professional Pride in Customs.”

As a member of the Customs Business Partnership committee, the JMEA is privy to the intricate work of the Jamaica Customs Agency in supporting the work of local manufacturers and exporters, and by extension the economy. As the leading voice for the productive sector, it has not gone unnoticed or unappreciated the role Customs play in making importation and exportation a simpler process. Whether through their various online platforms, minimising congestion at the ports, processing payments, amongst other benefits.

There is value in educating the nation on the role of Customs in maintaining a secure and balanced economy. As such, for 2023 and beyond, I encourage our local agency to explore various opportunities that will create a culture targeted at highlighting a true understanding and development of pride in Customs.

As former US Supreme Court Justice, Oliver Wendell Holmes Jr. once said, “man’s mind stretched to a new idea never goes back to its original dimensions.” Therefore, once our nation has truly grasped the purpose of Customs, a shift in perspective and appreciation will start to happen.

Our strong and dedicated Jamaica Customs Agency is what defines our economic strength in so many ways. At the JMEA, we represent many micro, small and medium-sized enterprises (MSMES) and knowing the strength of our local agency reassures our Association that these members can confidently broaden their horizons, be more engaged in international trade, and boost their growth.

On this day, the JMEA encourages everyone to keep in mind the role Customs play in maintaining a safe border, assisting the government in complying to World Trade Organisation trade facilitation agreement, and sustainability.

Do not limit information to yourselves, I urge you to share with others; foster a culture of professional pride and let us work together in strengthening our own Customs Unit, the Jamaica Customs Agency.

Happy International Customs Day!

John Mahfood President JMEA

“Excellence Our Mantra: Building the Capacity of Our Staff. Serving Our Stakeholders with Pride.”