KINGSTON, Jamaica (JIS) – The Customs (Amendment) Act, which seeks to facilitate implementation of best practices and standards by Jamaica Customs, has been sent to a Joint Select Committee of Parliament for consideration.

The Bill was tabled in the House of Representatives Tuesday by Minister of Finance and Planning Dr Peter Phillips.

It will provide for the establishment of a framework for the efficient movement of goods through the ports, in anticipation of a logistic-centred Jamaican economy.

According to the Memorandum of Objects and Reasons, the amendments to the Bill are intended to ensure that importers and exporters will be able to conduct legitimate business in a more efficient environment, and that effective penalties are imposed on persons, who operate contrary to the customs laws.

The changes will also support the operation of the Automated System for Customs Data (ASYCUDA World), which was established by the Customs Amendment Act, 2014.

The Joint Select Committee will comprise: Minister without Portfolio in the Ministry of Transport, Works and Housing Dr Morais Guy; Member of Parliament for South  St Catherine Fitz Jackson; Minister of Industry, Investment and Commerce Anthony Hylton; Opposition Spokesperson on finance Audley Shaw; Member of Parliament for St Andrew North Eastern, Delroy Chuck; and Dr Phillips.

The Senate is to name its committee members.