[13 November 2024; Koror, Palau] The Republic of Palau’s Bureau of Customs and Border Protection (BCBP) received an advanced server to host the recently implemented ASYCUDA, a state-of-the-art customs management software, streamlining customs and border processes.
The arrival of the upgraded server marks a significant step in enhancing Palau’s customs infrastructure.
The Director of the Republic of Palau’s Bureau of Customs and Border Protection, Mr. John Tarkong Jr. said the server will become the backbone of the administration’s operations.
“It will manage customer databases, process online transactions, and store critical business data and without this server, our current modern businesses would struggle to operate efficiently and compete in the digital marketplace,” Mr. Tarkong Jr. stated.
Consequently, the server will allow BCBP to implement access controls, encryption, and data backups to safeguard sensitive information deemed “crucial in an era of increasing cyber threats and data breaches,” Mr. Tarkong Jr. said,”
The server is designed for high performance, reliability, and scalability, ensuring it can handle numerous simultaneous requests from clients.
Previously, BCBP relied on an older server to run ASYCUDA, which constrained the system’s performance, limiting reliability and scalability.
With the new server, BCBP now has greater processing power and expanded storage capacity, enabling faster transaction processing, improved data handling, and more efficient real-time communication with customs stakeholders.
This upgrade will support Palau’s ongoing efforts to modernize and optimize its customs operations.
The purchase of the new server was made through the European Union funded Improving Pacific Islands Customs and Trade (IMPACT) Project implemented by the UN Trade and Development.
The UN Trade and Development’s Regional Coordinator for the ASYCUDA Programme in the Asia and the Pacific, Mr. Jayvee Santos, said the Programme was proud to support the initiative.
“The high-performance servers supplied through the EU-funded IMPACT project will play a crucial role in modernizing the BCBP’s infrastructure. They will enable the handling of increasing volumes of data with greater speed and security, bringing additional resources to interface with other government systems, and prepare for the implementation of an electronic Single Window system,” Mr. Santos said.
KOROR, PALAU — In our efforts to eradicate illegal drug use from homes and schools, Xie Xie to Republic of China – Taiwan for their donation of field drug tests.
The tests can be used by public safety officers at the Bureau of Public Safety, Customs and Border Protection, Palau International Airport and the Palau Post Office to test for illegal substances. The test kits can provide results for various substances in about 5 minutes.
H.E. Ambassador Jessica C. Lee and a team of investigators from Taiwan presented the test kits to President Surangel S. Whipps Jr. and members of the Coordinated Border Management Working Group on Oct. 25, 2024.
Koror, Palau – On October 15, 2024, President Surangel S. Whipps, Jr. signed Executive Order No. 489 which amended the term of the Coordinated Border Management (CBM) Working Group to remain in effect, as it expired on September 30, 2024 as established through Executive Order No. 475.
The CBM Working Group is mandated to emphasize coordination and mutual assistance among the various government agencies to strengthen Palau’s border security and management, modernize our border management practices by streamlining policies and enhancing our technological systems, and combat the ongoing challenges and threats posed by transnational crimes and other illegal cross-border activities.
Successful facilitation, collaboration, and resource-sharing among border agencies has proven that the CBM Working group is a critical platform for enhancing the Republic’s border security.
3 September 2024 – Koror, Palau – Businesses dealing with excisable products in the Republic of Palau can now set up bonded warehouse facilities, marking a significant step forward in streamlining customs processes in the country.
This new development is the result of enhanced capabilities within the Republic of Palau’s Bureau of Customs and Border Protection (BCBP) through the implementation of the UN Trade and Development (UNCTAD)-backed ASYCUDA system. Previously, the absence of formal customs bonded warehouse processes in Palau, posed challenges for businesses to manage their duties and taxes efficiently.
With the introduction of ASYCUDA, the process has been fully automated, allowing for real-time tracking and management of excise goods in bonded warehouses. This automation ensures that customs processes are transparent, efficient, and secure, benefiting both the government and the business community.
The automation of these processes is supported by the European Union-funded Improving Pacific Islands Customs and Trade (IMPACT) project implemented by UN Trade and Development. By centralizing and automating customs operations, the ASYCUDA system enables better monitoring and control of excise goods, ensuring compliance with regulatory standards.
Benefits of Bonded Facilities:
1. Improved Cash Flow for Businesses: One of the most significant advantages for businesses is the ability to defer the payment of duties and taxes until the goods are released from the bonded warehouse. This flexibility allows companies to manage their cash flow more effectively, ensuring they do not have to pay the entire amount upfront.
2. Efficient Processing: The new warehouses are designed to handle excise goods more swiftly, reducing delays and optimizing the supply chain, leading to lower operational costs and faster turnaround times for businesses.
3. Enhanced Security: The facilities will operate under stringent regulatory standards to ensure the safe storage and management of excise goods, ensuring that businesses can store their products with confidence, knowing they are in compliance with all relevant regulations.
4. Facilitated Movement of Goods: By centralizing the storage of excise goods, customs processes are streamlined, reducing logistical hurdles and making it easier for businesses to move goods through the supply chain.
The BCBP has outlined specific conditions and regulatory requirements to ensure compliance and maintain high standards of security within these bonded warehouse facilities. Businesses interested in establishing a bonded warehouse are encouraged to review the detailed guidelines available on the BCBP website or contact their office directly.
For more information on how to apply and the conditions for establishing a bonded warehouse, please visit the BCBP website or reach out to the office at bcbp.pw.
Koror, Palau – July 16, 2024 – The Bureau of Customs and Border Protection is pleased to announce the addition of four new Customs Officers: Joyah Nigraiwet, Dawn Surech Kemesong, Lynette Ikesakes, and Carter Ngiralbong. Carter Ngiralbong, previously serving as a Biosecurity Officer, has transitioned into his new role as a Customs Officer. The swearing-in ceremony also included the Chief of the Division of Corporate Services, Robert Tarkong.
These new appointments come just one month after three other Customs Officers took their Oath of Office. The Bureau’s dedication to strengthening border security is exemplified by these strategic hires and promotions, which will significantly bolster our efforts in maintaining the security and efficiency of our operations.
The addition of these officers will provide much-needed support to our team, ensuring that we continue to meet our security objectives effectively of the Bureau of Customs and Border Protection. We are confident that these new officers will bring valuable skills and dedication to their roles, helping us safeguard our borders more efficiently.
The Bureau remains committed to its mission of protecting the borders and upholding the law, and the newly sworn-in officers are expected to play a crucial role in achieving these goals.
For further information, please contact the Bureau of Customs and Border Protection at 488-1985/6031 or email us at customs@bcbp.pw, or you can visit our website at bcbp.pw for more information.
June 19, 2024 – Koror, Republic of Palau – The Bureau of Customs and Border Protection (BCBP) is pleased to announce the formal induction of three new Customs Officers I. Sesario Gibbons, Ermangarde Augustino, and Jeracie Oiterong took their Oath of Office in a ceremony presided over by Acting Director of the Bureau of Public Safety (BPS), Temdik Ngirblekuu. The event was witnessed by Acting Director of the Bureau of Customs and Border Protection, Clint Mersai, along with other Customs Officers and the officers’ family members.
We welcome these new officers into the Bureau of Customs and Border Protection and we look forward to their continued support and contribution to our Mission. Their dedication and commitment over the past three months of rigorous in-job training and orientation have prepared them well for their roles. We look forward to their valuable contributions in the field.”
The new officers are currently engaged in a curriculum training at the Main Customs Office. This training encompasses essential areas such as Customs Laws, Regulations, Processes, Protocols, Ethics, and other pertinent course material integral to their duties as well as the Divisions and Sections under the Bureau. This thorough preparation ensures that they are well-equipped to uphold the standards and responsibilities of their positions.
As they transition into field operations, BCBP is confident in their ability to support and further the mission and goals of the Bureau for the Republic of Palau.
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About the Bureau of Customs and Border Protection: The Bureau is dedicated to enforcing laws related to customs and border security, revenue collection and compliance, as well as facilitating legitimate trade and travel, and ultimately ensuring the safety and economic prosperity of the Republic of Palau through vigilant border protection and efficient customs operations.
In the competitive world of customs brokerage, efficiency is paramount.
The Republic of Palau’s Bureau of Customs and Border Protection recently implemented the cutting-edge ASYCUDAWorld system, developed by the United Nations Trade and Development (UNCTAD).
This move has transformed the trading community’s experience, streamlining nationwide customs processes and mandating use of the automated system by customs brokers and agents.
KRW Company, a well-established customs agency with five years of industry experience, was among the first to transition from manual into automated customs processes.
For Ms. Avonlea Niro, a declarant at KRW Company in the Republic of Palau, mastering the intricacies of customs clearance processes on the digital ASYCUDAWorld system has been a journey of learning so far.
“Learning the ropes of the system was initially daunting, but with determination, I turned the challenges into opportunities,” Ms. Niro reflected. Ms. Niro had to immerse herself in understanding the complexities of the automated system, moving away from traditional paperwork.
One significant hurdle she encountered was navigating the online form-filling maze. However, the unwavering support of the ASYCUDA team at the Palau BCBP proved invaluable. Not only did Ms. Niro grasp the nuances of the forms, but she also learned the ropes of efficient submission.
“The ASYCUDA TEAM was instrumental in my learning journey, their guidance was invaluable in simplifying the process for my understanding,” Ms. Niro said. The advent of ASYCUDA brought a paradigm shift, revolutionizing Ms Niro’s workflow. The seamless, paperless approach not only saves time but also reduces unnecessary paperwork, allowing customs stakeholders like Ms. Niro to focus on efficient service delivery.
Simply put, she says,
“This system saved me time and papers. Now I don’t have to finish the paper or make two set of it (duplicate) and bring it with a flash drive to custom office. I can simply scan the necessary documents with the form and send it online and I just go back in the system to see if its ready for payment and go onwards from there.” ASYCUDA has been a game-changer for Ms. Niro in more ways than one. “I can now work from anywhere with an internet connection, it’s liberating!” The flexibility afforded by ASYCUDA allows her to seamlessly manage customs clearance processes, transcending geographical boundaries.
But it doesn’t stop there.
In Ms. Niro’s narrative, ASYCUDA isn’t merely a system; it’s a catalyst for efficiency, productivity, and customer satisfaction—a testament to the power of innovation in simplifying complex processes.
“The efficient and cost-effective system is even keeping our clients happy given that they also save money and clearances are faster than before,” she said.
Ms. Rushlyn Ueki, a declarant at Surangel & Sons Company, also highlighted her journey following the transformation. Ms. Ueki and her team were learning to grasp the system while at the same time trying to clear shipments for their clients on time.
“With ASYCUDA, things have really changed. Before it took us a week to clear all shipments and now it takes us only a couple of days,” Ms. Ueki added.
“Given our high standards of compliance, our company is on Green Lane now, and the processes are even faster.We don’t need to keep checking and waiting for validation. We can just process and we are ready to pay. This system saves us time and money.” she further elaborated.
Photo: Staff of Surangel & Sons Company (From Left) Dastin Darius, Declarant – Rushlyn Ueki, Jennifer O. Ingais, and Kimberly Elarionoff.
The impact of ASYCUDA is tangible. Following the January 2024 launch of the ASYCUDAWorld system, Palau witnessed a remarkable 53% increase in customs revenue by mid-March, compared to the same period last year.
This transformation was made possible through the European Union (EU)-funded Improving Pacific Islands Customs and Trade (IMPACT) project, implemented by UNCTAD.
About KRW Company: KRW Company is a customs broker company based out of Koror, Palau, a central area where about 70% of the commercial establishments are situated.
About Surangel & Sons Company: Surangel and Sons Co. is a diverse and thriving corporation located in the Republic of Palau.
About ASYCUDAWorld: ASYCUDAWorld is a cutting-edge customs management system by UN Trade and Development, aimed at simplifying trade and customs processes.
About the IMPACT Project: Funded by the European Union, the IMPACT project seeks to enhance customs operations through technological advancements and capacity building.
Koror, Palau: A delegation from the Government of Japan’s Digital Agency has arrived in Palau to further support toward the establishment of an efficient, digitized border management system at the country’s ports of entry.
Following initial discussions with the Government of Japan in April 2023, representatives from Fiji, together with Palau and Vanuatu travelled to Tokyo in October of last year to discuss the implementation of a digital arrival card system to streamline border entry processes in all three countries.
This work is being undertaken with support from the Government of Japan and its Integrated Border Management Project, implemented by the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP). The project aims to support relevant agencies in Fiji, Palau and Vanuatu in reinforcing their capacities, capabilities and systems for effective and efficient movement of travelers and cargo, and to strengthen links for data and knowledge sharing, inter-agency and cross-regional cooperation.
As part of its commitment to the Free and Open Indo-Pacific Vision, the Government of Japan strives to promote unrestricted and resilient economic activity throughout the region. Recognizing the significance of digitalization, the Government of Japan is supporting the adoption of digital solutions for border management across the Pacific to advance economic growth.
UNDP and the Government of Japan’s support to Palau has been long-standing, with the Government of Palau having already developed a health declaration tool following the COVID-19 pandemic. The government has now requested a consultation with the Japan Digital Agency to discuss the rollout of an integrated Customs, Immigration and Quarantine (CIQ) system and to also obtain technical advice on the development of the country’s first CIQ strategy.
Mr. John Tarkong Jr., Director of the Bureau of Customs and Border Protection, Ministry of Finance, said the visit from Japan’s Digital Agency was timely since the Government of Palau recently introduced a QR code system to accelerate customs’ declaration process.
“By further automating Palau’s passenger arrival card we are paving the way for a future characterized by a seamless entry experience, advanced data management, and robust security measures. This initiative will bolster the country’s immigration and security systems, and on behalf of those working within the border management space in Palau, I extend my gratitude to the Government of Japan for their support in this endeavor,” he said.
Japan to Republic of Palau, His Excellency Hiroyuki Orikasa, provided opening remarks at the consolation and said:
“We are aware that Pacific Island countries, including Palau, are faced with issues in regard to foreigners coming into territories with illicit intentions, whose number has increased dramatically over the past 25 years. It is up to every one of us to protect the country and family members from the expansion of bad influences from abroad. Japan’s partnership with Palau, and the Pacific as a whole, is one underpinned by mutual trust and respect, and through this project we look forward to furthering genuine cooperation between key border management stakeholders in Palau and throughout the Pacific region to enhance regional peace and security.”
Director of the Government of Japan’s Digital Agency, Hiroyuki Kato, made note of the significance of the collaboration.
“It is our pleasure to share our experiences of Visit Japan Web and the work of Japan’s Digital Agency with Palau. While we are here to support government in advancing their digitization, we would also like to learn from Palau in terms of future improvements for Visit Japan Web. We are excited to be here and to see Palau and Japan working together,” he said.
Country Manager and Deputy Resident Representative for UNDP’s North Pacific Office, Kevin Petrini, said the project champions collaboration and knowledge sharing, with the visit by Japan’s Digital Agency providing a boost to Palau’s future border management activities.
“UNDP has not only facilitated the exchange of expertise between Palau and Japan but has also played a crucial role in ensuring that the digital transformation we envision is inclusive and accessible to all. This collaborative effort, underpinned by UNDP’s guidance, stands as a testament to the potential of international cooperation in harnessing the power of technology for the benefit of everyone,” he said.
The consultation concluded on 3 April, with this work also supported by the International Organization for Migration, and the United Nations Conference on Trade and Development.
In late February, a team from the Bureau of Customs, Joline Spesungel and its Division of Immigration Officers, Jake Ramon and Levi Idechong met with the Digital Residency Office Director Jay Anson at Minneapolis for a demonstration visitation of the Biometrics system. This project has been initiated to update and replace the Border Management System currently being used in Palau and will allow for an swift integration of the Biometrics equipment that are already in Palau. The project will commence testing on mid to late March, and will be fully operational in the coming months when all the requirements are met.
