The Trade Board Limited is a regulatory agency of government under the auspices of the Ministry of Industry, Commerce, Agriculture, and Fisheries (MICAF) headed by the Trade Administrator who operates under the legal authority of the Trade Act. The Trade Board is Jamaica's certifying authority for goods exported under the various trade agreements. The Trade Board Limited has responsibility for the WTO Agreement on Import Licensing. Issuing import and export licences for specific items that may have a negative impact on the environmental, social or economic conditions of the country; Issuing certificates of origin for Jamaican exports under various Preferential Trade Agreements; Ensuring that Jamaica meets its international obligations under the following: WTO Agreement on Rules of Origin The company is headed by the Trade Administrator who manages the operations of the company. All operations are done from its office situated at 10th Floor, Air Jamaica Building, 72 Harbour Street, Kingston.
Website: The Trade Portal
Ministry of Industry, Commerce, Agriculture and Fisheries
The Ministry of Industry, Commerce, Agriculture and Fisheries (MICAF) has been charged with the responsibility of driving the integration of the production of primary agricultural produce along all the stages of the supply chain through to value-added and facilitating full commercialization of outputs of the agriculture, manufacturing, and service sectors. The vision statement of MICAF is by 2030, Jamaica has innovative, inclusive, sustainable and internationally competitive industries in agriculture, fisheries, manufacturing and service sectors. The mission of MICAF is to create an enabling environment which grows and sustains industries in agriculture, fisheries, manufacturing, and service sectors; strengthen national quality infrastructure; and ensure food & nutrition security, food safety and consumer protection.
Website: MICAF
Jamaica Customs Agency
The mission statement of Jamaica Customs is to facilitate trade, protect our borders, optimize revenue collection, through collaborative border management and delivery of high-quality customer service and to develop and maintain a team of motivated professional and competent staff. Jamaica Customs has three specific mandates: The equitable collection of revenue, protection of Jamaica’s borders against illicit imports and the facilitation of trade. JCA carries out these functions by:
Assessing and collecting customs duties, fees, and penalties due on imports;
Interdicting and seizing contraband, including narcotics and illegal drugs;
Processing passengers, baggage, cargo, and mail;
Detecting and apprehending persons engaged in fraudulent practices designed to circumvent Customs related laws;
Protecting Jamaica's industries, labor and intellectual property rights by enforcing Jamaica's laws intended to prevent illegal trade practices, including provisions related to quotas; the Anti-Dumping Act; and by providing Customs Records for copyrights, patents, trademarks;
Protecting the general welfare and security of Jamaica by enforcing import and export restrictions and prohibitions, including money laundering.
All customs activities are governed by the Customs Act. In addition to its own laws, Customs enforces over 125 other provisions of law for other agencies.
Website: Jamaica Customs Agency
JAMPRO
JAMPRO is an agency of the Government of Jamaica’s Ministry of Industry, Commerce, Agriculture, and Fisheries (MICAF) that promotes business opportunities in export and investment to the local and international private sector. In facilitating the implementation of investment and export projects, the organization is a key policy advocate and advisor to the Government in matters pertaining to the improvement of Jamaica’s business environment and the development of new industries. JAMPRO works closely with local and global entrepreneurs seeking to tap into the many investment and trade opportunities in Jamaica. In facilitating both local and foreign direct investment, JAMPRO guides investors through the necessary processes and offers support in partnership with key government agencies and ministries, even after their investments are operational. Local businesses depend on JAMPRO for a range of technical and advisory support mainly for export readiness and competitiveness.
Website: JAMPRO
Bureau of Standards Jamaica
The Bureau of Standards Jamaica is a customer-focused organization that promotes the international competitiveness of Jamaican producers, facilitates business development and trade, and supports consumer protection by providing standardization, metrology, testing, certification and training services through visionary leadership, consultations, teamwork, and a committed, motivated workforce. The Bureau of Standards Jamaica is the premier customer-focused and technology-driven organization, leading the development of the national and regional culture of quality.
Website: Bureau of Standards Jamaica
National Environment and Planning Agency (NEPA)
The National Environment and Planning Agency (NEPA) was established in April 2001 as an Executive Agency under the Executive Agencies Act. NEPA was founded to carry out the technical (functional) and administrative mandate of three statutory bodies "the Natural Resources & Conservation, Authority (NRCA), the Town & Country Planning Authority (TCPA), and the Land Development & Utilisation Commission (LDUC)". NEPA's operations are financed by recurrent budget allocations from the Government of Jamaica (GoJ) Consolidated Fund through the Ministry of Finance; and Appropriation-in-Aid through (50% of) Natural Resources Conservation Authority (NRCA) fees derived from permits and licenses. Projects are financed by budget allocations from the GoJ Consolidated Fund Capital "A" and "B" and from technical assistance grants and project financing from NRCA funds, and various international donor organizations.
Website: National Environment and Planning Agency (NEPA)
Coffee Industry Board
The Coffee Industry Board’s principal role is to promote, regulate, monitor and guide the development of the coffee industry of Jamaica and to assure the quality of Jamaican coffee. Key areas of operations are:
Licensing: Licensing and monitoring of coffee dealers, processors, works and nurseries, trademark registration licensing and monitoring of users. The Coffee Industry Board owns the Jamaica Blue Mountain® and Jamaican High Mountain Supreme® coffee trademarks and is responsible for the integrity of the brand.
Certification Process: Defining quality standards, growing areas and recommending specific plant varieties. Certifying quality via taking custody of all green coffee for shipment, sample testing of same and handling all export documentation and preparation.
Advisory services: Monitoring and forecasting of crop condition, technical advice to farmer groups on planting, pre- and post-harvesting techniques, pest and disease control and environmental management.
Website: Coffee Industry Board
Coconut Industry Board
The Coconut Industry Board was established under the Coconut Industry Control Act, Cap. 62, enacted in 1945. It is directed by a board of directors which consist of nine (9) members, four (4) of whom, including the Chairman, are appointed by the Minister of Agriculture. The remaining five (5) are elected by registered coconut growers and must themselves be registered coconut growers or the attorneys for such registered coconut growers. The Board promotes the interest and efficiency of the coconut industry, encourages the production of coconuts and regulates the purchase, sale and exportation of coconut as well as the importation of coconut products and substitutes. Allied functions are:
Keeping Government informed on the state of the industry and advising Government when any action is necessary.
Arranging for the issuing of licenses to manufacturers of coconut products.
Arranging insurance of coconut trees against damage by the windstorm.
Assisting growers to market their crop.
Carrying out research on the agricultural problems of the industry and advising growers on their agricultural problems.
Website: Coconut Industry Board
Mines and Geology Division
The MGD has the statutory responsibility under the Mining Act and the Quarries Control Act to exercise general supervision over all prospecting, mining and quarrying operations throughout the island. The Division also manages the investigation, characterization, documentation and release information on all aspects of the geology of Jamaica. The Division continues to play an integral role in the strategic development of the country’s mineral resources and has adopted a number of measures to address some of the negative impacts of mining and quarrying. In addition, the MGD collaborates with a number of local and international organizations and represents the country on a number of bodies such as the International Seabed Authority, IUGS (International Union of Geological Sciences), CAMMA(Mines Ministries of the Americas), inter alia.
Website: Mines and Geology Division
Ministry of Science Energy and Technology
The Ministry of Science, Energy and Technology, (MSET) was created in March 2016. It is comprised of the former Ministry of Science, Technology, Energy and Mining (MSTEM), with the exception of the Mining portfolio, which upon change of political administration was transferred, along with all its related entities, to the newly formed Ministry of Transport and Mining. MSET has portfolio responsibility for sixteen (16) agencies and departments spanning the country’s science, energy and technology, sectors. This has a direct impact on its structure, mandate, mission and vision, and a broadening of its responsibilities.
Website: Ministry of Science Energy and Technology
Ministry of Foreign Affairs & Foreign Trade
The Foreign Service is responsible for the implementation of Jamaica’s foreign policy, the management of Jamaica’s international relations and the promotion of its interests overseas. In its efforts to strengthen links between Jamaica and the rest of the world, the Ministry interacts with international communities, the public sector, corporate Jamaica and civil society to create positive alliances. The Ministry is committed to:
promoting friendship and cooperation with other countries
promoting international peace and security
providing representation overseas through resident diplomatic missions and consular posts
ensuring effective participation in regional and multilateral fora
monitoring and responding appropriately to external political and economic developments which impact national development goals
ensuring compliance with Jamaica’s obligations under bilateral, regional and international agreements, identifying and negotiating foreign trade, investment and tourism
projecting a positive image of Jamaicans abroad
performing consular functions for Jamaican nationals overseas, returning residents and visitors to Jamaica
Website: Ministry of Foreign Affairs & Foreign Trade
Ministry of Health
The Ministry of Health (MOH) is the pre-eminent Government organization whose mandate is “To ensure the provision of quality health services and to promote healthy lifestyles and environmental practices”. The Ministry, together with its Regional Health Authorities (RHAs), Agencies and related organizations make up the public health system and are responsible for health care delivery across the island. MoH's vision is: “Healthy People, Healthy Environment”. It is one which envisages a health system that is client-centered and guarantees access to quality health care for every person in our population, at reasonable costs, and which takes into account the needs of the vulnerable among the population. It is one which seeks to provide information and to educate the populace, to facilitate individuals taking responsibility for their own health, making informed decisions and adopting healthy lifestyle habits. All this, within a clean, healthy environment where families and communities actively participate and are integrated into the system of health.
Website: Ministry of Health
Anti-Dumping & Subsidies Commission
The Anti-dumping and Subsidies Commission has concluded five investigations, four of which addressed allegations of dumping and the fifth, an application for a safeguard. In all cases, the Commission found that measures were warranted. A safeguard was not imposed, as the associated international burdens could be avoided and a comparable level of coverage for the domestic industry reached by increasing the applied tariff rate in line with the amount of duty recommended. Other complaints have been examined but the requisite evidence has not been found for the Commission to open investigations in those matters. The Commission has facilitated by exhaustive research and insightful analysis, trade negotiations and policy formulation to enhance the international trade environment for businesses. Challenged to perform its complex and specialized work with staffing and resource constraints, the Commission seizes opportunities for training, creating a cadre of specialists in trade law, economics, and WTO trade rules. The Commission assists Jamaican businesses to learn and use the trade remedy instruments available to aid them in becoming globally competitive. The Commission assists Jamaican exporters to become pro-active in avoiding trade remedies action, which they could face overseas.
Website: Anti-Dumping & Subsidies Commission
Ministry of Justice
The Ministry of Justice (headed by the Minister of Justice) was established in 2001 after having severed ties with the Ministry of National Security and Justice. As a result, prior to the change in 2001, there are past individuals who were referred to as the Minister of National Security and Justice. Additionally, certain Ministers of Justice has also served simultaneously as the Attorney General of Jamaica. The Ministry of Justice is responsible for tasks such as administering legislation, delivering justice services, and providing policy support and analyses of law-related issues.
Website: Ministry of Justice
Ministry of Finance and the Public Service
The Ministry of Finance & the Public Service (MoF&PS), has overall responsibility for developing the Government’s fiscal and economic policy framework; collecting and allocating public revenues and playing an important role in the socio-economic development of the country in creating a society in which each citizen has every prospect of a better quality of life. The priority goals of the Ministry are geared towards:
- Enabling growth and national development through a sound and predictable macroeconomic policy framework that maintains low inflation, stable exchange rates and competitive interest rates;
- Improving revenue administration by creating a simple, equitable, and competitive tax environment to ensure greater compliance and enhance growth;
- Strengthening the level of financial accountability, and efficiency of the Public Sector;
- Strengthening the capacity of the Ministry to effectively regulate financial institutions and combat financial crimes;
- Improving the internal efficiency and effectiveness of the Ministry.
Website: Ministry of Finance and the Public Service
Statistical Institute of Jamaica
The Statistical Institute of Jamaica (STATIN) was established under the Statistics (Amendment) Act 1984 on April 9, 1984. The Institute has been invested with all the powers formerly vested in the Department of Statistics and previously the Bureau of Statistics (which came into existence in 1946). The Statistical Institute of Jamaica is an agency of the Ministry of Economic Growth and Job Creation. The main functions of the Institute are:
- to collect, compile, analyze, abstract and publish statistical information relating to the commercial, industrial, social, economic and general activities and condition of the people;
- to collaborate with public agencies in the collection, compilation and publication of statistical information including statistical information derived from the activities of such agencies;
- to take any census in Jamaica; and generally to promote and develop integrated social and economic statistics pertaining to Jamaica and to coordinate programmes for the integration of such statistics, in accordance with the provisions of the Statistics Act.
Website: Statistical Institute of Jamaica
Bank of Jamaica
The Bank of Jamaica, established by the Bank of Jamaica Law (1960), began operations in May 1961, terminating the Currency Board System which had been in existence from 1939. The establishment of the Central Bank was in recognition of the need for an appropriately regulated financial structure to encourage the development process, particularly as Jamaica was about to embark on the road to political independence. The main objectives of the Central Bank were defined by the Bank of Jamaica Act to be:
- To issue and redeem notes and coins.
- To keep and administer the reserves of Jamaica.
- To influence the volume and conditions of supply of credit so as to promote the fullest expansion in production, trade and employment, consistent with the maintenance of monetary stability in Jamaica and the external value of the currency.
- To foster the development of money and capital markets in Jamaica To act as banker to the Government.
Website: Bank of Jamaica
Jamaica Intellectual Property Office
The Jamaica Intellectual Property Office (JIPO) was established in January 2001. JIPO acquired its status as a statutory body on February 1, 2002 (JIPO ACT) and is an agency of the Ministry of Industry, Commerce, Agriculture and Fisheries. The services offered by and activities carried out by JIPO are geared towards enhancing the capacity of individual creators and innovators, micro, small and medium-sized enterprises (MSME’s), corporations and institutions, to create wealth through the acquisition and maintenance of Intellectual Property Rights (IPR’s). JIPO is headed by an Advisory Board appointed by the overseeing Minister. The day-to-day activities of the Office are supervised by an Executive-Director assisted by the Managers of each IP Directorate.
Website: Jamaica Intellectual Property Office
Banana Board
The Banana Industry had ceased to operate in the export market since August, 2008. The industry had been faced with many challenges including five major storms in five years. With this suspension, banana farmers, especially those in the traditional banana parishes such as Portland, St. Mary, St. James and St. Thomas, focused solely on the domestic market. 2009 was characterized as a year of major changes for the Jamaica Banana Industry and the Banana Board. The industry adapted to a change in focus from primary production for a traditional export banana market to large domestic market with expanded value chain for both the banana and plantain sub-sectors. However, many continued to show an interest in growing bananas for export and had maintained their operations up to standard in compliance with export demands to target high-end retail and hotel markets.
Website: Banana Board
Jamaica Agricultural Commodities Regulatory Authority (JACRA)
The Jamaica Agricultural Commodities Regulatory Authority (JACRA) is a statutory body which falls under the Ministry of Industry, Commerce, Agriculture and Fisheries (MICAF). It is responsible for the regulation, promotion, standardization and development of the agricultural commodities industry – which includes cocoa, coffee, coconut and the spices (nutmeg, pimento, ginger and turmeric). JACRA, which commenced operations on January 1, 2018, is an amalgamation of the Cocoa Industry Board, Coffee Industry Board, the regulatory functions of the Coconut Industry Board, and the Export Division of the Ministry of Industry, Commerce, Agriculture and Fisheries. It is regulated by the Jamaica Agricultural Commodities Regulatory Authority Act, which was established on March 14, 2017, pursuant to the Jamaica Agricultural Regulatory Authority Act of 2017.
Website: JACRA
Jamaica Chamber of Commerce (JCC)
The Jamaica Chamber of Commerce is a membership-based organization comprised of businesses and professionals working together to build and promote a healthy economy and to improve the quality of life in our country. The primary function, however, is to ensure the most favorable environment for the effective and profitable operation of businesses. Considerable emphasis is placed on projects which will enhance the development of the wider community. The primary function is subdivided into services offered by the Chamber and specific activities that it carries out, in its role as economic advisor and business advocate. These include: advising members on trade regulations and a variety of other trade matters; lobbying government on matters affecting trade and industry; facilitating linkages between our members and local and overseas sources and outlets for goods and services; facilitating ingoing & outgoing trade missions thus providing members the opportunities of meeting with trade missions to Jamaica and participating in Jamaican trade missions to overseas markets, thus keeping abreast with changing business trends for new and traditional products; advising members of proposed changes in government policies and changes as they affect commerce; acting as arbitrator in commercial disputes; maintaining links with International Chambers of Commerce to ensure members direct access to specific information on products, markets and companies internationally; providing counselling/assistance to members with specific problems, and the provision of “Membership Mixers” and “Power Breakfasts” to allow the networking of members.
Website: Jamaica Chamber of Commerce (JCC)
Jamaica Manufacturers & Exporters Association (JMEA)
The Jamaica Manufacturers & Exporters Association (JMEA) is Jamaica’s leading industry association, serving as the voice of exporters, manufacturers, service providers micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs). The JMEA provides vital support to the industry through advocacy, strategic partnerships, export services, research, capacity building and access to finance. The Jamaica Manufacturers & Exporters Association (JMEA) remains instrumental in helping their local companies expand and export. Their members form the cornerstone of Jamaica’s business community and it is the group that continues to drive new thinking and works diligently to foster a stronger economy, which is evident in the long-term success of renowned Jamaican brands. The Jamaica Manufacturers and Exporters Association Limited (JMEA) is a limited liability company that promotes the development of the manufacturing and export sectors and endeavors to increase their contribution to the socio-economic welfare of the country by creating jobs and improving the standard of living for all. Today, the Association represents manufacturers and exporters in several sub-sectors as well as institutions and organizations that provide services to these sectors.
Website: JMEA
Private Sector Organization of Jamaica (PSOJ)
The Private Sector Organisation of Jamaica is a national organisation of private sector associations, companies and individuals working together to promote a competitive and productive private sector. Established in 1976, the PSOJ represents the interest of the most diverse group of private sector entities and seeks to influence national policy issues of a political, social or economic nature in order to facilitate business development and growth. The Officers and Executive Committee, under guidance from the Council, lead this process by promoting discussions with the country’s government and civil society. The organisation is also in close contact with the major multi lateral and bilateral agencies.
Website: PSOJ
Shipping Association of Jamaica (SAJ)
Formed in 1939, the Shipping Association of Jamaica (SAJ) is registered under the Trade Union Act of Jamaica and is a service provider to the Ports as well as a member-based organisation of terminal operators, stevedoring contractors and shipping agents, the latter of which are the marketing and logistics representatives of shipping lines in Jamaica. The SAJ was founded against the backdrop of Jamaica’s labour upheaval in the 1930s by a small group of businessmen as a labour hire organization. Since then, membership has grown steadily and the association now represents seventy-eight (78) businesses. The association works closely with Government agencies and the private sector to promote sustainability and growth in the shipping industry. The SAJ promotes initiatives to advance the interests of its members, employees and staff as well as delivers training programmes for industry members. It promotes a high standard of industrial relations in the shipping industry through the Joint Industrial Council established in 1952. True to the core of its business as a labour hire organisation, the SAJ employs and manages a cadre of 250 varying types of skilled workers which it supplies to the terminals operating at Port Bustamante across three shifts each day. The SAJ plays a key role in ensuring that Jamaica’s maritime sector is competitive and remains viable through vigorous representation on critical industry and government committees.
Website: SAJ
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