Box Shipping - Import Regulations in Jamaica

Import Regulations in Jamaica

Being a member of the United Nations (UN), World Trade Organization (WTO) and the Organization of American States (OAS), Jamaica uses the Common External Tariff (CET) which was adopted by members of the Caribbean Community (CARICOM), a trade bloc of English-Speaking Caribbean countries. This tariff is based on the Harmonized Commodity Description and Coding System.

Generally the duties are assessed on an ad valorem basis and range between 5 and 20 % for all items except for a small number of commodities, which are duty exempt or attract a higher rate of duty. Besides import duties under the CET, a 16.5% General Consumption Tax (GCT) is payable on the combined value of CIF and import duty. This is a value added tax charged on all transactions for goods and services unless exempt or zero rated.

Nearly all goods may be imported freely, with the following exceptions:
- Prohibited items - 'one-arm bandits' and dog racing equipment.
- Items requiring a specific import license