Customs

 Importing Restricted Items into Jamaica

As Christmas approaches, Jamaicans and visitors travelling from overseas may wish to import items in celebration of the season, such as uncooked ham/turkey, fire crackers, fireworks, pyrotechnics, toy guns, or alcohol (in excess of the stipulated allowance), all of which are categorized as restricted items.

So what are restricted items?
Restricted items are those goods which require a permit or license in order to be imported into Jamaica. Failure to comply with this stipulation will result in the passenger or importer being breached, for contravening the Customs Act. It is therefore important that the requisite permits or licenses must be sought before the items are imported into Jamaica.

Here are some frequently asked questions (FAQs):

1. I wish to import ham for Christmas, may I do so? 
   Response: The importations of meats require a permit from the Ministry of Agriculture.
2. Can Red Kidney Beans be imported without a permit?
   No. Red Kidney Beans require a permit from our Ministry of Agriculture.
3. My children wish to travel with their toy guns, are these allowed?
   Toy guns are restricted, as they are deemed as a threat and can be used for illicit purposes. The requisite permit is needed for importing these items.
4. Can camouflage (military) clothing be imported?
   This gear is for military purpose or use only. It will be deemed as an impersonation or a threat, if civilians are caught wearing this type of clothing.
5. Do I need a permit to import the remains of my deceased relative?
   A permit is required for the importation of all human remains (corpse or ashes).
6. Are fruits and vegetables restricted?
   These items are restricted, in order to prevent the importation of pests or plant diseases. The requisite permit is needed from the Ministry of Health, before they can be imported.

List of Restricted Items:
Some passengers and importers are unaware of the various permits that are required for importing certain items. The following list stipulates the items that are restricted. This list is subject to change, as items are added and removed as the Government of Jamaica dictates.

Glossary:
MOA – Ministry of Agriculture 
MOH – Ministry of Health 
MNS – Ministry of National Security 
PRAD – Pharmaceutical Regulatory Affairs Division 
KSHA – Kingston & St. Andrew Health Department