Motor vehicle importers urged to submit correct and complete applications

The Trade Board Limited (The TBL), an agency of the Ministry of Industry, Investment & Commerce, is urging motor vehicle importers to submit correct and complete applications for motor vehicle import permits via the Jamaica Single Window for Trade (JSWIFT), managed by the Jamaica Customs Agency (JCA), to ensure faster and more efficient processing.

The JSWIFT platform simplifies the motor vehicle import permit process, capturing all information electronically to reduce errors and improve processing times. This integration supports the Government of Jamaica’s strategic move towards a fully digital environment, enhancing both efficiency and accuracy in trade facilitation.

Nickeisha Drummond, Training and Implementation Support Specialist at JSWIFT, outlined the system’s capabilities, including 24/7 availability and seamless communication with other government systems, such as the Companies Office of Jamaica for business registration verification.

“Once you submit your application, it is routed to the Border Regulatory Agency that is responsible for processing, and we have on the list Trade Board as well as other agencies that we provide services for,” she explained.

“These agencies are responsible for reviewing your application, doing their various inspections, and making a decision as to whether or not your application is approved or rejected. Once your application is submitted, paid, and processed, the next step from there is that the system sends your approved items to the ASYCUDA World System. ASYCUDA is the Jamaica Customs Agency’s clearance system.”

Drummond emphasised that preparation and accuracy are key to avoiding setbacks. She noted that, “in terms of being prepared, it is important that you find out from The Trade Board Limited what information you need to prepare your application.”

BEST PRACTICES

In her presentation, Drummond also shared best practices, including uploading clear PDF documents, verifying vehicle details, and monitoring application statuses via the system’s dashboard to prevent delays.

The Trade Board Limited has identified common errors, such as missing documents or incorrect details, which are significant contributors to delays in the application process. To minimise disruptions to the supply chain, the TBL recommends that importers carefully review their applications before submission, ensuring all fields are completed and all necessary supporting documents are attached.

This streamlined application process via JSWIFT aligns with the TBL’s commitment to delivering high-quality service. The collaboration between the JCA and The TBL enhances operational efficiency while supporting both agencies’ ISO 9001:2015-certified commitment to providing accessible and transparent services to stakeholders.

Shari Ramsay-Patrick, Acting Customer Service Manager at the TBL, reinforced this dedication to service excellence by echoing that “the Trade Board Limited is committed to delivering high-quality service and recognising the importance of customer feedback for improving organisational performance.”

This commitment is reflected in the integration with JSWIFT, which allows the TBL to align its service delivery standards with the platform’s advanced capabilities. Ramsay-Patrick further highlighted the agency’s customer service standards, noting that “a written correspondence will be acknowledged within one business day, and a full response will be provided within three business days.”

The TBL encourages all motor vehicle importers to take full advantage of the benefits offered by submitting correct and complete applications through JSWIFT. This approach ensures faster processing, reduces errors, and facilitates smoother clearance for all stakeholders.

For JSWIFT system-related issues, applicants can contact support@jswift.gov.jm, where a dedicated team is ready to assist. For more information on how to submit motor vehicle import permit applications via JSWIFT, or for assistance with the process, please visit www.tradeboard.gov.jm