Creative urged to utilise productive inputs relief scheme

Jamaicans involved in the creative industries are being encouraged to take advantage of the Government’s productive inputs relief scheme.

The provision is a duty exemption on the importation of specific items for productive use.

Newly-minted film commissioner at the Jamaica Promotions Corporation (JAMPRO), Jackie Jacqueline Jackson, said the scheme is a major form of support for the creative industries at both the individual and company levels.

“So, let’s say somebody … is an audio engineer and they’re doing independent work or what we call freelance work… . They have the access of applying for it and getting their tools in and not having to worry about [certain] costs and charges at the Jamaica Customs Agency (JCA),” she points out.

The film commissioner says the first step for persons looking to benefit from the programme is to get registered on the entertainment registry.

“Then, of course, you would come to us at JAMPRO and we would stamp whatever payment or receipt that you have and then you take it to JCA and you’re good to go,” she said.

Of importance, also, is the fact that individuals must have a tax compliance certificate (TCC). Additionally, companies must be formalised.

“[People] need to understand that, yes, there are the bond waivers for those international film-makers. But for our film-makers, animators, the music industry, creatives, this is an opportunity for us,” Jackson said, adding that JAMPRO will be ramping up promotion of the offer.

Other sectors that are targetted under the productive inputs relief scheme include agriculture, manufacturing, tourism, and healthcare.

The facility is designed to promote and stimulate growth in the economy and spur expansion of productive activities in these areas.