Caribbean Producers Jamaica (CPJ) welcomes Jamaica Customs, lauds CBI initiative

Montego Bay, November 27, 2023 — Commissioner/CEO of Jamaica Customs Agency, Dr. Velma Ricketts Walker, CD, J.P. , led a team of customs officials on a visit to Caribbean Producers Jamaica (CPJ) in Montego Bay as part of the Customs Business Interaction initiative.

This interaction is a key component of the trade, revenue, and border protection entity's efforts to fortify the collaborative relationship between Jamaica Customs and businesses throughout the country, fostering an environment of cooperation and understanding.

?During the meeting, Commissioner Ricketts Walker and her team gained valuable insights into the unique challenges and opportunities facing CPJ in the business community.

Emphasizing the importance of such interactions and collaboration, Ricketts Walker stated, "This outreach is evidence of our commitment to building strong partnerships with the business community in Jamaica. By understanding their needs and challenges, we can work together to create a more efficient and supportive trade environment."

She added that CPJ is a significant driver for Jamaica's economy, and the Agency is dedicated to maintaining a conducive environment for local and international trade.

Mark Hart, Executive Chairman, and Thomas Tyler, Co-Chairman, expressed gratitude to Customs for visiting the thriving wholesale and distribution company. They commended the Customs Business Interaction (CBI) initiative, citing its importance for business development and trade facilitation in Jamaica.

During the visit, CPJ provided a tour of its state-of-the-art warehouses and technologically advanced distribution practices. Additionally, plans for the further expansion of CPJ's operations were shared, indicating potential economic growth and additional employment in the Western region and beyond.

The other members of the Customs team included Bridgette Cunningham, Christopher Brown, Orane Thompson, Marsha Brown

The Customs Business Interaction (CBI) is a trade facilitation initiative of the Jamaica Customs Agency, aligning with the Agency's mandate of Trade Facilitation. CBIs are designed to strengthen the Customs-to-Business partnership, a key pillar of the WCO SAFE Framework of standards.

?