THE YEAR 2003 saw various new initiatives and requirements being introduced with regard to trade and logistics worldwide. Exporters, freight forwarders, airlines and shipping lines were mandated to adopt new requirements for entry into world markets. We saw the introduction of the United States(U.S.) Bio-terrorism Preparedness Act; the U.S. Automated Manifest System (AMS), requiring prior notification of cargo on vessels and the Business Anti-smuggling Coalition (BASC) initiative.
As exporting is our 'lifeline' the country will be forced to conform with the requirements of our international trading partners. For 2004 the Freight Forwarding community and all the related industry of transportation and trade must ensure a continued path of safety, security, re-training and intelligence gathering.
The demands of our international trading partners dedicates our future!!
The changes required in how we operate our offices, factories and ports on a day to day basis, should not be seen as an obstacle but the signal of new opportunities for Jamaica's development.
The Freight Forwarders Association, wish for all a productive and successful 2004!
BEVERLY JOHNSON-GREEN
President
Freight Forwarders
Association of Jamaica
