2009-10-01
Jamaica Revises Cement Tariff Application
Jamaica will revise its application to CARICOM and will now seek a one year suspension of the tariff on 120-thousand tons of cement, in order to guarantee adequate supplies of the product to meet local construction industry demands.
Minister of Industry, Investment & Commerce, Karl Samuda told a press conference this morning that Jamaica had originally applied for tariff suspension on the importation of 170-thousand tons, but that this was revised following discussions with local producers Caribbean Cement. He explained that the 120-thousand tons to be imported represent approximately 15% of anticipated domestic market demand; and would allow for continuity and stability within the industry.
Local importers have imported some 129,742 tons of cement since the beginning of this year; while 56,603 tons were exported over the same period. The Industry Minister emphasized that his administration would not tolerate dumping by importers of cement. “Any suggestion of dumping will be investigated by the Anti-Dumping Commission…and if cases are found, then appropriate measures will be taken to protect the local producer,” he stressed.
Jamaica’s application will be among those considered by Trade Ministers at the upcoming meeting of the Council for Trade and Economic Development (COTED) to be held in Barbados on October 8th. Until then, all imports of cement into Jamaica will be required to pay the Common External Tariff (CET).
The last suspension granted to Jamaica on cement expired earlier this month – September 9th.