"We are now at the end of the pilot phase for the import aspect of it and we are looking to fully implement this by January 2009," said Shelia Harvey, chief plant quarantine produce inspector at the Ministry of Agriculture.

Easier process

"This process is easier when someone is able to go online and go to the ministry's website, which is www.moa.gov.jm, and go to the section that says 'import inspection' or 'import permit'," she added.

The inspector emphasised that the new measures would facilitate trade, because not only was it easier for prospective importers but the ministry's job would be made easier as well.

"We will be better able to have a hold on what is coming in and what is prohibited. We are able to go online and issue permits, what they are for, who is bringing in the items and see where exactly they are coming from," Harvey explained.

She pointed out that, currently, there was a hold on certain locally grown vegetables such as cabbage, tomato and carrot, "as, locally, we can satisfy these items, so nobody is able to bring these in".

Harvey also said there were now many countries applying to bring produce to Jamaica.

In order for that to happen, Harvey said pest risk analysis would have to take place. A department dedicated to that process is set to be opened next month. Currently there is a backlog.

- JIS