VSWIFT – Vincentian Single Windows for Trade Facilitation: a new era for trade

Published Mon July 29, 2024

The Vincentian Single Window for Trade Facilitation (VSwift) was launched on June 24th, 2024. This revolutionary initiative is a crucial pillar of the government’s Digital Transformation Project and will significantly transform how we conduct trade in Saint Vincent and the Grenadines.

What is VSwift?

VSwift is an electronic single window streamlining trade procedures by providing a one-stop shop for all trade-related documentation and processes. This user-friendly platform will eliminate the need for multiple submissions across different government agencies, saving time, reducing costs and improving overall trade efficiency.

A Network for Seamless Collaboration

VSwift will bring together a network of sixteen (16) participating Border Agencies (PGAs) involved in the trade process in two (2) phases. This integrated platform fosters seamless collaboration and information sharing between all parties, ensuring a more efficient and transparent trade environment.

The PGSs are:

Phase 1

Saint Vincent and the Grenadines Port Authority

Fisheries Division

Consumer Affairs

Ministry of Health

Treasury Department

Ministry of Agriculture

Inland Revenue Department

Commerce and Intellectual Property Office

Royal Saint Vincent and the Grenadines Police Force

Bureau of Standards

National Telecommunications Regulatory Commission

Phase 2

Ministry of Finance

Prime Minister’s Office

Legal Affairs

Energy Unit

Forestry Division

Fisheries Division

Benefits of VSwift to the CED

Enhanced Efficiency: VSwift automates manual processes, allowing us to focus on more complex tasks and improve overall departmental efficiency

Improved Accuracy: The System reduces the risk of errors associated with manual data entry.

Improved Accuracy: The System reduces the risk of errors associated with manual data entry.

Increased Transparency: VSwift fosters greater transparency within the trade ecosystem.

Simplified workflows: The platform simplifies workflows and facilitates collaboration with other PGAs involved in the trade process.

The Road Ahead

The launch of VSwift marks a giant leap towards a modernized and streamlined trade landscape! To ensure a smooth transition for this project with an expected completion date in 2026, the Digital Transformation Project Implementation Team will be conducting ongoing and comprehensive training sessions in collaboration with the consulting partner, UNCTAD. These sessions will equip all Customs and Excise Department staff with the essential skills and knowledge to successfully transition to the VSwift platform.

Implementing V-Swift will result in several changes in various aspects of the local trade supply chain, including border regulatory licenses and certificate processing, revenue collection, clearance of goods, and other border trade processes. The Department has established an internal Paperless Task Force (PTF) to undertake a change management strategy to ensure that the CED staff is informed and prepared for future changes. The PTF comprises various Managers and supervisors and is chaired by Ms Samantha Robinson, Coordinator of ASYCUDA.

VSwift ushers in a new era for trade in SVG. This innovative platform promises a more efficient Customs Department and will unlock a wealth of benefits for Saint Vincent and the Grenadines trading ecosystem. We are committed to working with our stakeholders to ensure VSwift’s full potential.