Celebrating International Customs Day

Published Mon Feb 10, 2025

The Saint Vincent and the Grenadines Customs and Excise Department (CED) joined our global counterparts in celebrating International Customs Day with a week of activities. This was a time of reflection, innovation, and celebration as the Department engaged in a series of activities that highlighted its commitment to efficiency, security, and prosperity. From a solemn remembrance of those who served to exciting innovations and camaraderie, the week brought together officers, stakeholders, and the community in a meaningful way.

A PRAYERFUL BEGINNING
The week commenced with various religious congregations praying on behalf of the CED. This is an essential exercise as the country strives to move forward and to elevate socially, economically, and spiritually; we recognize that the CED plays a vital role in influencing all areas of Vincentian life and prosperity. A Prayer Breakfast was held on Monday, January 26th, setting a tone of gratitude and reflection. Officers gathered to seek divine guidance and strength for the staff, Customs operations, customers, and stakeholders. The event featured Bishop Wendel Davis, who delivered an uplifting exhortation that reinforced the Department's core values of integrity and dedication to the mandate of border security and economic protection. The early morning event provided an opportunity for unity and inspiration.

EMBRACING DIGITAL TRANSFORMATION
One of the week's key highlights was the launching of the Customs E-payment platform, a component of the Vincentian Single Window for Trade Facilitation (V-SWiFT). This official launch took place on Tuesday 27th, and the initiative marked a significant step in modernizing customs operations, making transactions more efficient and user-friendly by providing registered ASYCUDA Users the opportunity to pay duties, taxes and fines online. The Customs Exhibition, held on the same day, provided a platform to showcase the Department's work, educate stakeholders and customers, and demonstrate how evolving technology shapes the future of customs. Several stakeholders and partner agencies joined the CED at the exhibition to inform the public about their roles and functions and highlight the partnership and collaboration with Customs. The Plant Protection and Quarantine Unit, Animal Health and Production Division, SVG Bureau of Standards, Domestic Trade and Consumer Affairs Division, and V-SWiFT Project Implementation Unit were all present at the exhibition.

PRIORITIZING HEALTH AND WELLNESS
Recognizing that a strong workforce is a healthy workforce, the Department dedicated a day to Health and Wellness. Staff participated in health seminars covering Stress Management, Nutrition, and Breast and Prostate Cancer Awareness. There was also BMI testing, blood glucose, and blood pressure testing for staff. The day wrapped up with an invigorating Walk and Workout session, promoting fitness and camaraderie among Officers and Guards. This initiative underscored the Department's commitment to the holistic well-being of its employees. Customs Staff were joined by officers of The Coast Guard, Foreign Affairs, and our colleagues at the Ministry of Finance as we walked through the streets and worked out under the guidance of Lindon James of BeFit Movement.

HONORING THOSE WHO SERVED
In solemn and heartfelt ceremonies throughout the length and breadth of SVG, wreaths were laid to remember officers who passed away while serving the country at the CED. Wreathes were laid in Canouan, Union Island, Bequia, Kingstown, and Richland Park. This tribute honored their dedication and sacrifice, reminding all present of the unwavering commitment of Customs officers to their duties and of the spirit of community, love, and togetherness that we foster.

A GRAND FINALE: THE CUSTOMS COCKTAIL
The week culminated in the much-anticipated Customs Cocktail, an elegant evening of celebration; staff and guests gathered at the Sandals Resort to toast the successes of the Department and reinforce the strong values that drive Customs forward. It was a perfect way to close the week, leaving participants with renewed purpose and pride. Three Officers received the first-ever Comptroller's Award for Training Excellence for outstanding performance in the inaugural Caribbean Customs Law Enforcement Council (CCLEC) Online Junior Officers Basic Course. Mrs. Gracelyn Craigg, Senior Customs Officer, was awarded for completing this course with the highest distinction in the region. Mr. Denron Brown, Senior Customs Officer, was awarded for achieving the second-highest average with a distinction within the Region. Mr. Sawandi Ralph, Junior Customs Officer, was awarded for achieving the third highest average among the Vincentian participants.

LOOKING AHEAD
The ICD week of activities was more than just a series of events- it was a testament to the Department's dedication to progress, well-being, and service. As Customs Officers and Guards continue their vital role in trade facilitation, revenue collection, and border security, the spirit of the week will serve as a lasting reminder of their commitment to excellence, innovation, and unity. Here's to another successful year ahead!