Last week we presented part one of this article, which explored the context within which the local port community seeks to create a paperless port. Today we look at some of the initiatives under to make a paperless port a reality.
CUSTOMS, WITH its modernisation
programme is also in the mix and has been using electronic/online means of transactions since 1998, where Customs Brokers lodge entries over the Internet. Importer and exporters are also able to get immediate verification and will know if their entries have been passed. Payment of customs duties and other charges can also be made online.
E-PAYMENT
Recently, an electronic payment facility was introduced in Jamaica, where brokers and importers can make payments of up to J$5 million and after using appropriate identification and an assigned password, can view all entries listed on their behalf.
While maintaining that these developments are "time saving and cost saving measures", Customs has said, a paperless operation cannot be absolute until the legislation is in place. In addition, Customs is seeking to ensure that all persons get on board with the modern technology and system to hook into the online trade."
Both Customs and Fiscal Services Limited are on a move towards the transmission of electronic manifests by shipping agents, as online submission is expected to be mandatory soon. This is currently being piloted on Berth 11 at the Kingston transshipment terminal and the kinks in the system are being worked out for a smooth operation.
It is crucial for all the parties involved to
cooperate and ensure compatibility in the
systems being utilised.
TRADE POINT
The Shipping Industry is also plugged into the Trade Point network, an initiative inspired by the United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD) and is spearheaded locally by JAMPRO through partnership. The Jamaica Trade Point is Jamaica's trade facilitation portal, where exporters and importers can carry out trade related transactions with the relevant organisations "online" and in a seamless manner. The service also offers the convenience of online payment of Customs duties and user fees.Various elements of shipping business will also be conducted via the Trade Point. The Jamaica Trade Point portal, along with the developments at the ports, will further facilitate and attract investments, demonstrating to the world that Jamaica is open for business and is technologically ready for global trade.
THE CHALLENGE
The challenge to the port community therefore is for shipping agents and their principals, customs brokers, warehouse operators and all other players in the port community to establish the appropriate IT support base to facilitate a paperless port.
The Kingston port community is anticipating a visit from a leading provider of port community systems, Maritime Cargo Processing (MCP) in England. This delegation is expected to conduct diagnostic studies of the existing systems and make recommendations for improvements. When this is done, parties will know what exists, and what needs to be done and this will be the first step in creating the best system to link all the stakeholders in the community for a paperless port.
