Quote Originally Posted by Ohio_Buckeye_1 View Post
In JA they have red tape and rules that are insane. When you think about it - these rules are almost comical. In this case we are talking about, it's not what is in your baggage that determines whether it is declarable, it's what is in your head. Since if you intend to return with it, it's your personal possession and there is no duty. But the exact same item, if you intend to gift it - you should declare it and pay duty. So I say don't lie about a reason - just truly change your reason. Nothing says you can't change your mind later. That's why I think this is insane.
OB,

It comes down to simply being honest. If you bring an electronic item down for your personal use, customs expects you to take it back with you. If you do not take it back with you, this is not what is keeping with the "personal use" concept (please dont confuse this with something that you can "use up" like soap, shampoo, etc). So yes, if you fail to bring back an electronic item that was declared as "personal use", whether you want to believe it or not, you are breaking the law.

Jamaica is NOT the only country that does this. There are restrictions in the US and Canada as well for items that come in the respective countries. There is nothing comical about it - the rules are set up to protect each country's economy.