The World Customs Organization (WCO), within the framework of the agreement signed between the WCO and Bahamas Customs and Excise Department (BCED), organized a National Train the Trainer Workshop on Rules of Origin for Bahamas Customs.  This Workshop, conducted in Nassau from 8 to 12 October 2018, was attended by 8 officials.

The Bahamas is part of the Caribbean Community and Common Market (CARICOM) which has concluded Free Trade Agreements (FTAs) with Costa Rica, the Dominican Republic, Venezuela and the EU.  In order for the Bahamas to benefit to the maximum extent possible from the FTAs while securing revenue collection, participants have been equipped with international tools and technical know on how to ensure a sustainable ability to maintain and pass on international standards in relation to rules of origin.  During the Workshop they have become more familiar with instructional materials and international capacity building standards.

Topics discussed during the Workshop included the key concepts for proper origin determination, related operational and procedural issues, the establishment of an efficient origin management and provision of effective training and private sector outreach.
Participants discussed specific areas of concern, including the low level of knowledge and use of the FTAs and challenges linked to administrative cooperation.  Discussions also emphasized the importance of verifying the originating status of goods, rather than merely checking the authenticity of the certificate of origin.

The knowledge and experience gained from the Workshop will assist the Administration in the correct application of the Free Trade Agreements and will lead to a reduction in the number of instances of rules of origin based disputes.  This will help the Bahamas benefit from the regional economic integration, promote exports of originating products and ensure the correct application of preferential treatments for importations.