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Trade Agreements

Jamaica is a member of several trade agreements that enhance international trade and economic cooperation, offering Jamaican businesses preferential access to global markets. Key agreements include:

Explore Current agreements

World Trade Organization (WTO) - Most Favoured Nation (MFN)

As a WTO member, Jamaica adheres to multilateral agreements that govern international trade in goods, services, and intellectual property, ensuring non- discriminatory treatment among trade partners.

How to Export Using Jamaica’s Trade Agreements

Exporters seeking duty-free or reduced tariffs under Jamaica’s trade agreements must obtain a Certificate of Origin (CO). This document certifies that goods qualify as being “of Jamaican origin” under specific treaty rules.

Steps to Apply:

Determine Eligibility

Ensure your product qualifies under one of Jamaica’s trade agreements.

Mr. Sydney Thwaites

President

Mr. Thwaites has over 28 years of experience in financial services, petrochemicals, and consulting, with a global reach spanning the USA, Canada, Europe, Asia, and the Caribbean. He co-founded Lubricating Specialties Company Jamaica in 2015, revitalizing the local lubricant manufacturing industry. With a solid track record of organizational leadership, Mr. Thwaites has developed and negotiated long-term partnerships with major global companies, closed various debt and equity financing deals, and delivered consistent growth and returns. Known for his dynamic

leadership, trustworthy and ethical approach, and keen market understanding, he has served as CEO of LSC USA and held advisory roles with the U.S. Export-Import Bank and the Petroleum Quality Institute of America.

Licenses, Permits, and Certificates: A Quick Guide

Apply for the necessary licenses, permits, and certifications at the following Agencies:

  • Plant Quarantine Produce Inspection (PQPI) Division: Contact for exportation of agricultural produce. A certified packaging facility is required. Specifications and guidelines can be obtained from PQPI.
  • Veterinary Services Division: Contact for export permits/licenses related to the following:
    • Apicultural products
    • Bee products
    • Animals and animal by-products
  • Jamaica Agricultural Commodities Regulatory Agency (JACRA): Contact for exporting the following:
    • Coffee
    • Coconut
    • Cocoa
    • Spices (including Pimento, Nutmeg, Ginger, and Turmeric).
  • Cannabis Licensing Authority (CLA): Contact for exporting the following:
    • Cannabis
    • Hemp
  • Mines and Geology Division: Contact for exporting the following minerals:
    • Bauxite
    • Limestone
    • Aggregates
    • Gravel
    • Alumina
    • Cement
    • Rock
    • Stone
    • Soil
  • National Environment and Planning Agency (NEPA): Contact for exporting the following:
    • Scrap products (metals, batteries, etc.)
    • Hazardous materials
    • Endangered species.
  • Trade Board Limited: Contact for exporting the following:
    • Scrap metal (including scrap batteries and scrap gold)
    • Coffee
    • Ammunition (explosives and firearms)
    • Plasma
    • Wood (Lignum Vitae and log wood only)
    • Jewellery (excluding those from earth metals)
    • Brown Sugar
  • Ministry of Health and Wellness: Contact for exporting pharmaceutical products.

Bureau of Standards Jamaica (BSJ): Consult with the BSJ for guidance on processed food prior to exporting. This includes information on standards, labelling and market requirements.

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