The WCO Anti-Corruption & Integrity Promotion (A-CIP) Programme successfully conducted a sub-regional workshop aimed at bolstering trade facilitation and cooperation efforts within the three countries of the Northern Triangle: El Salvador, Guatemala, and Honduras. The workshop took place in Tegucigalpa, Honduras, from 10th to 14th July, and brought together officials from the three countries, as well as WCO experts and a representative of the Central American Economic Integration Secretariat (SIECA).
The activity was designed to promote greater transparency in Customs procedures and regulations to facilitate trade and reduce opportunities for corruption. The event provided a platform for the participants to exchange valuable insights gained from the Regional Time Release Study, which had been coordinated by the SIECA and the WCO Regional Vice-Chair’s office in 2020. Discussions on a new Time Release Study in Honduras and El Salvador culminated in an action plan to be submitted to their respective administrations, furthering progress in this area.
In addition to work on the Time Release Study, the participants engaged in a constructive dialogue on improving the Coordinated Border Management (CBM) in the region. Emphasis was placed on identifying measures that require low investment but can yield quick and tangible results.
During the closing session, the Deputy Director of Honduras Customs emphasized the significance of the workshop for the Northern Triangle, noting that sharing experiences can prevent mistakes and lead to better-informed decisions. The Director of Trade Facilitation of SIECA extended an invitation to the WCO to continue collaborating and joining their efforts. On behalf of all participants, the representative of Guatemala praised the workshop as a valuable experience and a source of innovative ideas.
By fostering regional cooperation and knowledge-sharing, the WCO remains committed to supporting the collective action of its member countries in enhancing trade facilitation, transparency, and integrity. The WCO Anti-Corruption & Integrity Promotion (A-CIP) Programme supports more than 20 WCO Member administrations, with funding from Norad and Canada.
For more information, please contact capacity.building@wcoomd.org