Trade Agreements

Caricom

Jamaica operates a Common External Tariff (CET) along with other trading partners of the Caribbean Common Market (CARICOM). Goods imported from third countries are subject to the duties listed in the CET, but goods imported from CARICOM countries and are certified to be of CARICOM origin do not generally attract these import duties. These CARICOM origin goods enjoy duty-free status, that is, they are not subject to Customs import duty, but local taxes, General Consumption Tax and Special Consumption Tax are payable.

Are there any special conditions applicable to goods imported from the CARICOM Region?
Yes, there are:

• A CARICOM Invoice (C23) certifying the country of origin of the goods is to be produced to the Customs Department.
• The Invoices must be certified by the Certifying Authorities in the CARICOM country of origin of the goods.

Are there any goods, which will not be free from Customs Duty even though they had originated in the CARICOM Region?
No.

IMPORTANT: Remember to have your CARICOM Invoice (C23) verified by the Certifying Authority of the CARICOM country from which your goods have been imported.

Trade Agreements

Free Trade Agreements assist Jamaican importers and exporters by providing improved access for goods and/or services in contracting states, and by reducing trade barriers in those markets. Among other things, FTAs:

1. Grant preferential tariff rates for originating goods traded among contracting parties.
2. Establish the rules by which goods can qualify as originating.
3. Outline Customs procedures for accessing preferential tariff rates.
4. Sets out the general principles for customs procedures among the contracting parties of an Agreement.

Practical Guidance to Using FTAs:

1. Determine the proper tariff classification for the goods.
2. Consult specific FTA to ascertain if products of that tariff heading are eligible for preferential access.
3. Consult specific FTA to find out the rules of origin relevant to the specific goods to be traded.
4. Ensure that you meet the direct consignment rule.
5. Ensure that you have and maintain correct and complete documentation for the goods.

In order to benefit under an FTA:

1. The trader must present a valid, original certificate of origin for the goods seeking preferential access when submitting the relevant import declaration.
2. The goods must also have been directly consigned from the relevant exporting contracting party to Jamaica.

More detailed information regarding specific FTAs that Jamaica is party to can be found in the menu.