Published Thur Jan 23, 2026

The Customs and Excise Department of Saint Vincent and the Grenadines has reached an important milestone in its ongoing modernization journey with the commencement of system testing and targeted training under the ASYCUDA World Version 4.4.0 upgrade.

This phase will see the realization of system enhancements. There is hands-on engagement, as officers perform structured testing and training across key ASYCUDA modules. As part of this phase, selected officers will participate in Train-The-Trainer and module-specific sessions, equipping them with advanced systems knowledge and the capacity to support wider internal and external user communities. This approach ensures sustainability, the transfer of institutional knowledge, and long-term impact. These activities, which commenced on January 12th, 2026, are designed to ensure system readiness, strengthen operational capacity, and support a smooth rollout of upgraded functionalities that will enhance cargo processing, and risk management, trade facilitation.

The ASYCUDA World 4.4.0 upgrade is being implemented with the support of the United Nations Trade and Development (UNCTAD), with technical assistance and guidance provided by Mr. Terence Leonard, UNCTAD ASYCUDA Program Manager for the SVG V-Swift Project, and Mr. Edmund Male, UNCTAD ASYCUDA Information Systems Officer. This upgrade is aligned with the objectives of the Caribbean. Digital Transformation Project (CARDTP). Together, these activities aim to, improve efficiency, strengthen the use of digital solutions in border management and modernize public sector services.

The Customs and Excise Department remains committed to leveraging technology to deliver more efficient, transparent, and secure customs services. The start of testing and training under ASYCUDA 4.4.0 represents another significant step toward a more digitally enabled, resilient, and future-ready Customs Administration. ASYCUDA Version 4.4.0 is scheduled to go live in April 2026.