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CBFFAJ advocates for clients in likely disruption of trade logistics sector

Customs broker body seeks to allay uncertainties as DHL Air Cargo shifts clearance operations from Kingston to Montego Bay

Published:Monday | September 1, 2025 | 12:07 AM
CBFFAJ President Marcia Bent (centre) with Marsha Loy Evans (left) and Steve Forrester at the association’s annual general meeting in July.
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CBFFAJ President Marcia Bent (centre) with Marsha Loy Evans (left) and Steve Forrester at the association’s annual general meeting in July.

The Customs Brokers And Freight Forwarders Association of Jamaica (CBFFAJ) has moved quickly to address anxieties among its members and clients in the wake of the decision by DHL Jamaica to change its shipment routing and clearance location on September 1 from Kingston, NMIA to Montego Bay, MBJ for incoming and outbound air cargo.

The move has triggered sharp concerns among Kingston-based businesses for how the changes will disrupt their operations and push up prices to consumers, according to CBFFAJ President Marcia Bent. “We have been in discussions with the DHL Jamaica team, where we have asked for a reconsideration of the September 1 deadline,”said Bent.

“At issue is the concern for the likely delays in transporting inbound cargo from Montego Bay into Kingston, especially for urgent consignments and goods requiring refrigeration. It should be noted that there is no refrigeration facility in place in Montego Bay at this time,” she added.

She noted that CBFFAJ’s clients are also anticipating significant increases in transportation and related costs and have been insistent that their brokers are present to clear and see to the proper handling of their import and export cargo.

Jamaica’s over 200 customs brokers operate at all ports of entry, and under Customs laws and regulations are obligated to be present for the clearance of all incoming and outgoing goods on behalf of their customers in the commercial and public sectors.

“Kingston is the hub of business and commerce in Jamaica, and our customers operating out of the national capital will primarily be impacted by the changes. in keeping with our duty of care to our Kingston-based customers, our brokers will be present in Montego Bay to duly handle their shipments,” the CBFFAJ president said.

“We will remain vigilant and work closely with DHL to iron out the expected disruptions arising from this significant operational shift, while minimizing any anticipated delays,” she continued.