12 IMPORTERS OF household goods into Jamaica must make an accurate declaration of the contents of their shipment and submit proper invoices to Customs to avoid or reduce delays. Where applicable, importers must apply for the requisite permission, permits, and/or licences from the relevant ministry or border regulatory agency before importing or shipping items. By law, passengers must declare to the customs officer if they are in possession of US$10,000 and more (or its equivalent) and provide documentary evidence of the source of funding. Air passengers, if available, should present their taxpayer registration number to the Customs officer at the airport if they have unaccompanied shipment. This will prevent or reduce delays when clearing their shipment at the port or point of clearance. Be fully aware of what is given to you by another party when travelling as you will be held accountable for the contents of your luggage. Utilise the appointment system instituted by some port operators and warehouses in order to prevent or reduce wait time. Make use of the door-to-door delivery services offered by some agents and ports operators, which could reduce travel and wait time. Items exported temporarily for repairs or commercial use must first be registered with Jamaica Customs, using an Electronic Customs Declaration-EX2. Reimported items that are upgraded, altered, or replaced may attract Customs duty. Charity organisations must ensure that certificates of registration are valid or up to date before undertaking clearance. Check the Jamaica Customs Agency’s website for Customs-related information, or contact the agency by telephone at 876-922-5140-8. Guidelines for importing goods into Jamaica She said there are specifications regarding the cost and clearance of goods valued above and below US$5,000. “For shipments above US$5,000, the customs broker will clear that item, and you must give them a C73, which is the authorisation for them to act on your behalf. Shipments valuing US$5,000 or less may be cleared without the need for a customs broker. You must have a letter of authorisation, which must be signed and stamped by a justice of the peace for the clearance,” the Deputy CEO said. She added that permits and licences are required for certain goods such as pharmaceuticals and motor vehicles. TRUTHFUL DECLARATIONS Clarke Graham said that environmental levy and 50 per cent of customs administration fees are paid for medication, medical equipment, sundry items, and educational and school supplies. “If you’re importing a motor vehicle, what is exempt is the special consumption tax. You must pay the import duty, you must pay the general consumption tax, and you must pay 50 per cent of the customs administration fee,” she stated. The deputy CEO added that charitable organisations are also required to file tax returns, pointing out that the packing lists and invoices must match the shipment so that Jamaica Customs can determine the value of the goods. She further indicated that the contents of shipments must be in line with the objects and powers approved by the DCFS and urged charities to keep up to date with their documentation and always make truthful declarations. “Truthful declarations are required to ensure a seamless experience. You are to utilise the charitable goods in accordance with the law, [and] charitable organisations must maintain proper records. Charitable organisations are subject to audits by the Jamaica Customs Agency, so you must maintain your records,” said Clarke Graham. She cautioned that misrepresentation of declarations may lead to imprisonment. IMPORT Continued from, 11 MOVE Continued from, 11 Returning Residents must visit the Jamaica Customs Agency Returning Residents Unit and submit the following documents: • A valid Jamaican passport or foreign passport that is endorsed with the unconditional landing stamp. • A validated Bill of Lading or Airway Bill • Taxpayers’ Registration Number • Documentary evidence that will substantiate residency outside of Jamaica for three consecutive years. • Documentary evidence that substantiates intention to re-establish permanent residence in Jamaica. • Returning Students should present a transcript, confirmation letter of attendance from the last institution of study, and identification card issued by the institution. • Deported persons should present their Deportation Order, case file, letter from the Passport, Immigration & Citizenship Agency (PICA), and picture identification. For those returning home with plans to set up a business, Tools of Trade are defined as instruments, tools, equipment, devices, and machinery used in the normal course and scope of a person’s profession, trade, or occupation. Any authentic documents to validate one’s profession, trade, or occupation where applicable; Declaration of Intention of Use signed by the Returning Resident. For more information, visit the Jamaica Customs Agency website at: www.jacustoms.gov.jm. exemption on some of their items. DOCUMENTARY EVIDENCE In order to clear your goods and personal items that have been shipped, A customs officer inspects an imported barrel at a Kingston port. CONTRIBUTED THE WEEKLY GLEANER | OCTOBER 10 - NOVEMBER 6, 2024 | www.jamaica-gleaner.com | NEWS
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