Perfecting a standard of efficient service delivery

AT OUR ports of entry, many people interact with customs agents without realising that the responsibility of the Jamaica Customs Agency far exceeds monitoring the flow of goods and people across borders. Most importantly, it includes safeguarding revenue streams, protecting local and international trademarks from exploitation, and limiting the risk invasive species posed to our biodiversity.

Border protection is especially essential to marine life and an agricultural sector which is currently one of the leading engines of growth in the economy.

As Jamaica joins the rest of the world in commemorating International Customs Day, I am pleased to add my own words of commendation to the Jamaica Customs Agency for the tremendous efforts it has undertaken over the years to modernise and restructure its operations. This process, which saw the implementation of a more user-friendly interface with the department, has borne fruit, and today Jamaica is on par with other countries in border protection.

The pace of global demand for goods and services means that billions of dollars worth of resources, manufactured goods, and capital are exchanged across national borders each year. Against this background, and as this year’s theme seeks to highlight, border control is essential for creating ‘a secure business environment for economic development’.

The Jamaica Customs Agency is, therefore, a key component in the creation of a platform for sustained growth. Professionalism and integrity, as well as effective and efficient service delivery, are standards which the agency must continue to perfect so that Jamaica can cement its reputation as the place of choice to do business.

Best wishes as you observe International Customs Day! SIR PATRICK ALLEN Governor General