ADULT JAMAICANS returning to the island from vacation and business trips abroad are now entitled to a duty-free concession of US$500 (about J$26,750) on personal and household effects not imported for sale or commercial exchange.
The Jamaica Customs Department says the increase in passengers' travelling allowance is effective immediately and represents an increase of 200 per cent over the US$150 or J$8,025 that existed before.
In a release, the Customs Department says the new allowance is for a fixed value limit of US$500 for all personal and household effects and will be granted per trip regardless of duration of stay abroad. However, the duty free concession will not be applicable to the crew of a vessel.
The Department describes personal effects as those items which are worn on the body, including apparel and articles of personal adornment; and items which are basic to an individual, such as toiletries and medication.
Household effects include items basic to the home, such as furniture, as well as appliances such as television, radio, stove and refrigerator admitted as such by the Commissioner of Customs.
Visitors to Jamaica, as well as Jamaican residents, are entitled to an incoming allowance of duty free items consisting of 0.5 pound of tobacco, a quart of spirit (including liqueurs, cordials and wine), six ounces of perfumed spirits and 12 ounces of toilet water.
In addition, allowances will be granted on instruments and tools used in individuals' profession, trade, occupation or employment, provided that they have been in the travellers' possession for a reasonable period.
The Customs Department said the new allowance, as well as assessment of passengers' goods, "is more consistent and transparent and will provide simplicity for passengers."
Previously, Jamaicans returning to Jamaica were entitled to "a reasonable quantity" of wearing apparel, articles of personal adornment and toiletries whether new of used in addition to household and personal effects valued at up to US$150 or its Jamaican equivalent.
