The Port Authority of Jamaica and Jamaica Customs Agency: Partnering through the Port Community System to Modernize and Improve Processes within Jamaica’s Port Community
The Port Authority of Jamaica (PAJ) is pleased to be celebrating Customs Week 2016 with the Jamaica Customs Agency (JCA) under the theme: “Digital Customs – Progressive Engagement”.
Use of this theme is timely, as both the PAJ and JCAwere mandated by the Government of Jamaica to acquire and implement a Port Community System (PCS) for the country. The role and participation of the Port Community is critical to any improvements that are to be realized, and it is for this reason that continuous engagement of the stakeholders is critical in this process.
A PCS is a neutral and open electronicplatform enabling intelligent and secureexchange of information between publicand private stakeholders in order toimprove the efficiency and competitiveposition of the seaport and airportcommunities.While the PCS is an electronic system, the main aim of the project is change management and business process re-engineering within the Port Community where Jamaica Customs plays a significant role.
The implementation of this project is opportune, as it will be integrated with the new Customs Management System – ASYCUDA World. We have already seen where the JCA has taken a holistic view of modernizing its operations, and the significant benefits that have accrued to date,to both the Port Community and Customs, and also to the general public. This approach has led to the modernization of your Information and Communications Technology (ICT), re-engineeredtrade processes, enhancements in human resource capacity, stakeholder engagement and reduced trading costs. These initiatives will result in significant improvements in the logistics and trade capabilities of Jamaica.
The efficiency, productivity and attractiveness of a country’s ports are a strategic asset that must be continually improved, whether by physical infrastructure, ICT or by developments in port processes as it relates to cargo and documentation logistics.All of these initiatives are ultimately geared towards significant reduction in processing times and improved efficiency, transparency and predictability of trade and logistics transactions.
We therefore ready and eager to achieve this mandate.We salute your efforts and commitment to the cause!
Professor the Hon. Gordon
Shirley, OJ
President & Chief Executive
Officer
The Port Authority of
Jamaica
