Antigua and Barbuda Moves Towards Fully Digital Customs System

CABINET NOTES: Comptroller of Customs, Mr. Raju Boddu was invited to Cabinet to provide a brief on a proposal to implement a national single window for customs and trade, fully integrating all stakeholder systems so businesses and customers can transact online in real time. A company supporting capacity-building presented a demonstration of the vendor’s customs management and single-window solutions, which reportedly impressed local teams. The matter is now elevated to Cabinet for guidance and direction. 

The Single Window System for Customs is a modern trade-facilitation platform that allows traders, importers, and exporters to submit all required regulatory documents and information through one digital entry point instead of having to interact separately with multiple government agencies.

Key features reported to Cabinet include:

• One submission, multiple clearances: Traders upload permits, licenses, invoices, and certificates once, and the system shares them with all relevant authorities (customs, port, agriculture, health, standards, etc.).
• Inter-agency integration: Customs, port authorities, ministries, and inspection bodies are digitally linked, reducing duplication and delays.
• Real-time processing: Automated checks and data exchange speed up risk assessment and decision-making.
• Transparency: Traders can track the status of their applications and shipments.
• Paperless trade: Most systems are designed to be fully electronic, minimizing physical paperwork.

Following the briefing,

• Cabinet appointed a Cabinet-level steering group (Customs, Ports, Trade, Finance, ICT) to review the presentation and advise on the best possible options;
• Commissioned a short feasibility & due-diligence note (scope, costs, legal changes, data governance, phased rollout).
• Instructed the Ministry of Legal Affairs to map required legislative/regulatory updates for a single window (electronic documents, risk management, data sharing). 
• Engage other companies involved in the provision of Single Window support.

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