The World Customs Organization (WCO) and Bahamas Customs and Excise Department (BCED) signed a multi-year agreement in December 2017. It started the implementation of a comprehensive organizational development and training programme. This joint project forms part of The Bahamas Trade Sector Support Programme, financed by the Inter-American Development Bank. The Bahamas government continues to discuss accession to the WTO, and BCED has a crucial role in preparing The Bahamas to do so. 

As part of BCED’s ongoing contribution to The Bahamas border management, a WCO-led strategic planning workshop was conducted from the 4th to 8th of February 2019. A cross-section of officials hand-picked by the BCED Comptroller designed a new five year Strategic Plan (2019-2024). Based on the BCED government mandate and corresponding resources, the group revisited the mission, drafted a new vision and re-framed the organization’s strategic direction. The prioritized objectives and activities will contribute to trade facilitation, community protection and border security, as well as ensure staff and stakeholders can both contribute and benefit from reforms and modernization.

The WCO looks forward to the continued engagement with BCD and the IDB as part of the Trade Sector Support Program. For more information about this activity, please contact: capacity.building@wcoomd.org.