Message from the Honourable Prime Minister
Opening of the Jamaica Import/Export Inspection Centre

The opening of the Jamaica Import Export Inspection Centre, stands as a testament of Government’s commitment to facilitating the smooth flow of business and stimulating investment, by retracting the bureaucratic red tape and rolling out the ‘red carpet.’ The establishment of this “One-Stop” Inspection Centre is also part of an initiative, to foster greater collaboration between Government entities – as efficiency and effectiveness are best achieved through cooperation - not isolation. The optimum use of financial and human resources are also assured, which is critical, in light of the current constraints within which the Government and the wider country have to operate.

The global environment no longer caters to ‘snail-paced’ economies. The fiercely competitive world environment, places stringent imperatives on countries “to get their act together” or be left behind.  For too long, a deeply entrenched bureaucratic society, has stymied our nation’s development; and hindered business growth. We must address this with alacrity – a business friendly environment must be pursued!

Our ports of entry have mainly been preoccupied with the collection of revenue – not that this does not hold great significance; but this has been done at the expense of smooth trade facilitation. This has exasperated many local and international businesses, resulting in loss of investments and revenues – a loss which we just cannot afford.

I am pleased to see that the Jamaica Import Export Inspection Centre has become a reality; as it shows that we are serious about business and investment. It is also a fulfillment of one of our commitments made to the European Commission, to undertake initiatives that will reduce the bureaucratic red tape, that has been negatively affecting business development in Jamaica.

The Ministries of Agriculture and Fisheries, Health,Industry Investment and Commerce, Port Authority of Jamaica, Jamaica Customs Department, the Office of the Cabinet and other related agencies, must be commended on the tremendous time and effort invested in the development of the Jamaica Import Export Inspection Centre. The opening of this Centre carries with it, high expectations; but ones I am confident will be fulfilled.