International Trade Unit
The International Trade Unit is a technical division within Jamaica’s Ministry of Industry, Investment and Commerce (MIIC), commonly referred to as Jamaica’s “Business Ministry.” This unit is dedicated to providing expert support and advice on various trade policy matters, including market access, rules of origin, tariffs (such as the Common External Tariff), competition, and technical barriers to trade.
Key Functions of the International Trade Unit:
- Policy Development: Formulate recommendations for export and import arrangements and offer guidance on issues impacting domestic, regional, and international trade.
- Stakeholder Advocacy: Represent stakeholder interests at national, regional, and international forums on topics like market access, tariffs, and sanitary and phytosanitary measures.
- Research and Analysis: Conduct ongoing research to guide the Ministry and its agencies on opportunities for the development and expansion of domestic goods and services.
- Trade Remedies and Enforcement: Serve as the focal point within the Ministry for trade remedies and enforcement activities.
- Representation in Trade Negotiations: Participate in trade negotiations and attend regional and multilateral meetings on behalf of the Ministry.
- Collaboration on Foreign Trade Policy: Act as a liaison for issues related to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Foreign Trade, particularly concerning the implementation of the National Foreign Trade Policy.
Agency Monitoring:
The International Trade Unit oversees the Jamaica Trade Board (JTB), an agency under the MIIC. The JTB is Jamaica’s certifying authority for goods exported under various trade agreements and is responsible for:
- Administering the WTO Agreement on Import Licensing.
- Issuing import and export licenses for specific items that could negatively impact the country’s environmental, social, or economic conditions.
- Providing certificates of origin for Jamaican exports under various preferential trade agreements.
Collaborative Partners:
The International Trade Unit collaborates with several Ministries, Departments, and Agencies, including:
- National Compliance and Regulatory Authority (NCRA)
- Ministry of Agriculture and Fisheries
- Bureau of Standards Jamaica (BSJ)
- Fair Trading Commission
- Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Foreign Trade
