Importers urged to follow regulations
Published:Thursday | February 27, 2025 | 8:49 AM
Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Mining, Floyd Green, has urged importers to embrace full compliance with import regulations to safeguard the nation’s agricultural sector.
Green gave the charge in a message read by Minister of State in the Ministry, Franklin Witter, at the Plant Quarantine/Produce Inspection (PQ/PI) Branch’s Annual Importer’s Forum on February 26 at the Ministry’s office in Kingston.
Green noted that the Ministry, through its PQ/PI Branch, has taken significant steps to ensure that Jamaica’s import systems are robust, efficient, and aligned with international standards.
He said the branch’s pest risk analysis, import permit and import inspection control processes are not mere formalities but are a central mechanism designed to safeguard the agricultural sector, protect Jamaica’s ecosystems, and ensure the health and safety of Jamaica's agricultural sector.
“I must begin by charging you to embrace full compliance with our import regulations. This requires you to acknowledge and take the necessary actions to conform to the provisions of the Plant Quarantine Act and regulations, as well as adhering to the policies and standards of the branch,” Green urged.
The Minister explained that the PQ/PI’s pest risk analysis process is important, as it is a vital tool to prevent the introduction of invasive pests and diseases that could devastate Jamaica’s agricultural sector.
“Each time you comply with these requirements, you are contributing to the sustainability of Jamaica's food security and protecting the livelihoods of countless farmers and agricultural workers,” Mr. Green pointed out.
He emphasised that the import permit and inspection control processes are of equal importance, as they ensure that imported produce meets the highest standards.
“Non-compliance not only poses risks to public health but also undermines the trust that we as a nation seek to build with our trading partners. I urge you to see these systems not as hurdles but as enablers of growth and facilitators of a secure trade environment,” the Minister said.
He further charged importers to uphold the highest ethical standards in their operations.
“Illegal imports, fraudulent declarations and attempts to bypass inspection protocols undermine the integrity of our trade systems and jeopardise our nation's standing in global markets. Let us work together to ensure that Jamaica's agricultural sector remains resilient, competitive and respected internationally,” the Minister declared.
Green added that the ministry is committed to enhancing efficiency and transparency in the import process, reducing delays and providing clear guidelines to importers.
He urged the importers to share their experiences and concerns with the Ministry, while stressing that a collaborative approach is key to achieving balance between regulatory oversight and the ease of doing business.
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