CUSTOMS BROKERS are predicting that the decision by the Jamaica Customs to phase out the C79 import entry form and replace it with the C78x will lead to a backlog in the clearing of goods at the ports.The C79 form is used to clear commercial and personal goods with a CIF value not exceeding US$1,000. CIF refers to the cost, insurance and freight value of the imported goods.
Jamaica Customs ceased using the C79 yesterday, replacing it with the C78x. The department said that the implementation of the new form is aimed at streamlining the import entry processing system to achieve a fully automated system.
Some customs brokers, however, do not share this view. A representative of a large brokerage house, speaking with The Gleaner, said: "It is posing a problem; it now means that the customers are faced with more processing fees." The representative said that whereas in the past customers had to deal with the two forms, they now have to deal with four forms. Thus, an importer could spend up to $200 to secure the relevant import forms.
President of the Customs Brokers Association, Richard Minott, agrees with the views expressed by the broker agent as it relates to the cost factor. Speaking with The Gleaner, Mr. Minott expressed concern for persons who already had goods in the system and did not have the required packing list to be entered on the C86 (the declaration of items which is used with the C78x). Mr. Minott said "the importer would have to pay $1,200 to do a bill of sight before the Customs officer looks at the barrel."
Ashford W. Meikle
