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WCO HS Workshop in Palau – BCBP

June 9, 2025 – Koror, Palau – The Republic of Palau is honored to host a National Workshop on the Harmonized System (HS) in collaboration with the World Customs Organization (WCO). This important initiative is designed to enhance institutional capacity in goods classification and promote efficient and standardized customs practices among Customs Officers and personnel.

Sponsored by the Customs Cooperation Fund (CCF) Japan, the four-day workshop is being held at the Civic Center in Koror and is attended by ten Palauan Customs Officers. Participants are receiving hands-on training and expert technical guidance from internationally recognized WCO specialists, including Ms. Yara Novis, Nomenclature Specialist at the WCO; Ms. Hiroko Iwasaki, WCO HS Expert for the Asia/Pacific Region; and Mr. Noa Buredua, WCO HS Pre-Accredited Expert for the Asia/Pacific Region.

The Harmonized System (HS) is a globally recognized standard for classifying goods in international trade, adopted by more than 200 countries and economies. Accurate HS classification is critical for the application of tariffs, fair customs procedures, and the generation of reliable trade statistics.

This workshop aims to strengthen the capacity of Palauan Customs Officers to accurately classify goods under the HS, deepen their understanding of tariff application principles, and promote consistency and transparency in trade practices. The training is expected to lead to greater efficiency, improved accuracy, and timely processing of customs procedures in Palau.

This initiative marks a significant step forward in Palau’s efforts to modernize its customs operations and align with international best practices. With the expertise gained through this workshop, Palau Customs is better positioned to facilitate trade, ensure compliance, and contribute to national development goals.

The Bureau of Customs and Border Protection, on behalf of the Republic of Palau, extends its sincere gratitude to the World Customs Organization and the Customs Cooperation Fund Japan for their invaluable support in building customs capacity throughout the region.

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Palau Trading Community Meet to Validate Single Window Blueprint

Koror, Palau – On May 16, 2025, the Republic of Palau’s trading community met today to validate the national Trade Single Window Blueprint.

The Blueprint outlines the design for creating a single, digital entry point for all trade-related submissions, this will enable real-time data exchange between agencies like Customs, Immigration, Biosecurity, and others.

“Today marks a significant step in our national effort to modernize trade facilitation,” said Palau’s Minister of State Mr. Gustav Aitaro.

“This Single Window Blueprint is setting scene to building a digital gateway that will serve traders, agencies, investors, and citizens alike,” Mr. Aitaro said.

Mr. Aitaro further said, “Implementing a national electronic Single Window for international trade is, as we have seen, one of the most effective ways to enhance trade facilitation. It is also key obligation under the WTO Trade Facilitation Agreement.”

Officiating the event, virtually, the Head of Delegation for the European Union to the Pacific, Her Excellency, Ms. Barbara Plinkert, highlighted Palau’s efforts toward enhancing trade facilitation and sustainable economic growth.

“This effort has already shown impressive results through setting up a standard based automated custom system, ASYCUDAWorld supported by the European Union and implemented by UN Trade and Development (UNCTAD).

“ASYCUDAWorld has already helped ease customs procedures and increase customs revenue use already in its first year of implementation,” Ms. Plinkert said.

“In fact, the electronic single window which is being validated in today’s workshop will build on this achievement since an automated custom system such as ASYCUDAWorld is a core element for any national electronic single window.

“This project is another example which demonstrates the long-standing partnership between the European Union and Palau across many sectors, be it in the areas of climate resilience, ocean management or economic development,” Ms. Plinkert emphasized.

The Blueprint was developed with technical support from the UN Trade and Development (UNCTAD).

The initiative is supported by the European Union-funded IMPACT Project, implemented by the UN Trade and Development.

Director and Chief

Oath of Office Swearing-in Ceremony of Newly Appointed Chief of Immigration

Koror, Palau – The Bureau of Customs and Border Protection proudly announces the official swearing-in of Mr. Egan Tewid as the new Chief of Immigration under the Division of Immigration. The ceremony took place on Thursday, April 17, 2025, signifying a new chapter in leadership for Palau’s immigration services.

The Oath of Office was administered by Director of the Bureau of Public Safety, Mr. Curtis Elobt, and witnessed by Director of the Bureau of Customs and Border Protection, Mr. John Tarkong Jr., Chief of Corporate Services, Mr. Robert Tarkong, along with Mr. Tewid’s family members who were present to commemorate the occasion.

Mr. Tewid holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Criminal Justice from the University of Guam and previously worked under the Bureau of Budget and Planning, where he gained valuable experience in public sector planning and operations. His background in criminal justice and his understanding of government systems position him well to lead the Division with competence and purpose.

As Chief of Immigration, Mr. Tewid will oversee immigration operations, ensure the enforcement of immigration laws, facilitate effective inter-agency coordination, and support efforts to modernize immigration services. His leadership is expected to strengthen institutional integrity, improve operational efficiency, and enhance service to the public and travelers.

The Bureau of Customs and Border Protection welcomes Chief Tewid into this key leadership role and looks forward to his contributions in advancing the mission and goals of the Division of Immigration for the Republic of Palau.

Eid Mubarak (End of Ramadan 4.1.25)

Eid Mubarak! From the Bureau of Customs and Border Protection

As the holy month of Ramadan comes to a close, we wish to extend our heartfelt wishes to all who celebrate — Eid Mubarak!

To commemorate this special occasion, our UNCTAD In-Country Expert, Mr. Rizwan Khan, shared a variety of local cuisines with the BCBP team, adding a memorable touch to the celebration. It was a joyful and festive gathering that brought everyone together in the spirit of cultural exchange and appreciation.

This celebration promotes the ongoing commitment to develop a diverse and inclusive workplace. The BCBP takes pride in the rich cultural backgrounds of our team members and embraces every opportunity to learn from one another.

As we celebrate this festive moment with our colleagues, we look forward to more opportunities that promote unity, understanding, and shared traditions throughout the year.

Eid Mubarak from all of us at the Bureau of Customs and Border Protection!

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BCBP Welcomes Australian Border Force and Australian Federal Police for K9 Facility Assessment

The Bureau of Customs and Border Protection (BCBP) is pleased to welcome our regional partners from the Australian Border Force (ABF) and the Australian Federal Police (AFP), who have accepted our request to conduct an assessment of our K9 Facility. This important visit aims to review our training program, operational standards, and standard operating procedures (SOPs), and to provide recommendations based on international standards and best practices.

This initiative was made possible through the support of the Embassy of Australia, and we are grateful for their continued partnership. With their help, the Bureau was able to request this much-needed review to enhance and strengthen our K9 capacities, while also improving cooperation and coordination among our inter-agency partners.

The ABF and AFP team will be in Palau for one week. During their stay, they will visit key agencies and locations including the Bureau of Public Safety, Post Office, Airport, Customs K9 Unit, and the Seaport. Through these site visits and observations, they will assess current practices and provide guidance on how we can better streamline our operations and strengthen our capabilities using existing resources.

The Bureau expresses its sincere appreciation to the Embassy of Australia, the Australian Border Force, and the Australian Federal Police for their support and collaboration. We look forward to a productive visit and the valuable insights they will share. This partnership marks another positive step in our ongoing efforts to enhance border security and ensure the continued safety of our nation.

EU Ambassador and BCBP

EU Ambassador to the Pacific Visits Palau’s Bureau of Customs and Border Protection

EU Ambassador to the Pacific Visits Palau’s Bureau of Customs and Border Protection

Koror, Palau – The Bureau of Customs and Border Protection (BCBP) was honored to welcome the Ambassador of the European Union to the Pacific, Ms. Barbara Plinkert, during her recent visit to Palau. Ambassador Plinkert met with the ASYCUDA National Project team and engaged in discussions on the transformative impact of the EU-funded Improving Pacific Islands Customs and Trade (IMPACT) Project.

During her visit, Ms. Joline Spesungel, the ASYCUDA National Project Manager, highlighted the significant advancements made under the project, reinforcing Palau’s commitment to modernizing customs and trade processes.

Key Achievements of the IMPACT Project in Palau:

✅ Efficient & Timely Customs Clearance: The ASYCUDA technology has streamlined processes, reducing delays and enhancing efficiency.
✅ New Customs Bonded Warehouse: Strengthening trade support and facilitating secure storage for imports.
✅ Seamless Online Payment Systems: A more accessible and transparent system for customs and tax payments.
✅ Advanced Digital Infrastructure: A new server to enhance technological capabilities and ensure smooth operations.
✅ Electronic Trade Single Window Blueprint: A crucial step toward digitalizing trade and customs procedures.
✅ Improved Compliance from Traders: Strengthening adherence to customs regulations.
✅ Accurate Data Collection: Enhancing decision-making and enforcement capabilities.
✅ Stronger Border Security: Profiling and targeting measures bolster national security.
✅ Enhanced Trade Facilitation: Risk assessment tools improve customs efficiency and reduce unnecessary delays.
✅ Increased Revenue Collection: A direct result of improved compliance and digital advancements.

The Bureau of Customs and Border Protection extends its sincere appreciation to #EUPasifika for its continued support in strengthening customs operations, trade facilitation, and border security not just in Palau, but across the entire Pacific region.

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UN Resident Coordinator for Micronesia Visits BCBP

UN Resident Coordinator Mr. Tapan Mishra, paid a visit to the Bureau of Customs and Border Protection (BCBP) where he met with Director John Tarkong and the ASYCUDA national project team. During the meeting, Mr. Mishra was given an overview of the IMPACT project and the progress of ASYCUDA implementation in Palau, which aims to streamline customs processes and enhance trade facilitation. The discussion highlighted the next key step—developing a single window system to further improve efficiency and transparency. Mr. Mishra reaffirmed the United Nations’ commitment to providing support, advice, and technical expertise. By continuing to modernize and optimize its customs operations, Palau has the potential to set a benchmark for the region and serve as a model for other small island states.

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Palau Takes Major Step Towards Developing National Migration Policy

Malakal – The Government of Palau, with technical assistance from the International Organization for Migration (IOM), has made significant progress in creating the country’s first national migration policy. On February 6-7, 2025, stakeholders convened in Malakal to review findings from a research study on Palau’s migration context.

The study, conducted by IOM and commissioned by the Government of Palau, forms the foundation for the nation’s migration policy. IOM consulted nearly 30 key stakeholders and conducted an extensive literature review to ensure the policy is based on robust data and evidence.

The workshop brought together members of the Coordinated Border Management (CBM) Working Group, government entities, civil society organizations, migrant associations, the diplomatic corps, and other key actors involved in migration governance.

Participants discussed five critical themes: Emigration, Diaspora Engagement, and Return; Migrant Worker Issues; Trafficking in Persons; Internal Migration; and Border Management and Law Enforcement.

During the workshop, stakeholders validated the research findings and considered how the policy could address Palau’s unique migration challenges and opportunities. They also explored solutions for supporting the return and reintegration of Palauan living abroad, hiring foreign migrant workers, climate-induced displacement, and strengthening border management systems.

“The insights gathered during this workshop will ensure that Palau’s migration policy is comprehensive, inclusive, and responsive to the country’s needs,” said Mr. John Tarkong Jr., Director, Bureau of Customs and Border Protection. “Through collaborative efforts, we are building a stronger framework to manage migration effectively and harness its benefits for Palau’s socioeconomic development.”

IOM’s Chief of Mission for Micronesia, Salvatore Sortino, emphasized the organization’s commitment to supporting Palau’s migration governance efforts. “Migration, when well-managed, can be a powerful driver of economic and social development. This policy will help Palau address challenges while unlocking the benefits of migration for its people. We are proud to support the Government of Palau in this crucial initiative,” Sortino said.

The policy is being developed under the Building Bridges: Developing a Comprehensive National Migration Policy for the Republic of Palau project, which was launched in February 2024 in the presence of President Surangel Whipps Jr. and his Cabinet of Ministers. Funded by the IOM Development Fund, the project aims to enhance migration governance frameworks through improved coordination, policy development, and capacity-building initiatives tailored to national contexts.

As part of this initiative, in May 2024, IOM conducted a three-day ‘Migration Management’ course for Palauan government officials to equip them with the tools and knowledge necessary for active participation in policy formulation. These officials applied their newfound skills and insights during the recent research validation workshop.

The research validation workshop marked an essential step in Palau’s journey towards a structured and strategic approach to migration management. The policy development process will continue in the coming months, ensuring that all stakeholders remain engaged in shaping a migration framework that benefits Palau and its people.

ASYCUDA

BCBP Marks 1-Year Anniversary of ASYCUDA Implementation

The Bureau of Customs and Border Protection (BCBP) proudly marks the one-year anniversary of the implementation of the Automated System for Customs Data (ASYCUDA), a major milestone in the modernization of Palau’s customs and trade processing system. Since its launch on January 22, 2024, ASYCUDA has significantly enhanced the efficiency of declaration processing for Bills and Manifests, streamlining operations for Stevedores, Shipping Agents, Freight Forwarders, and certified brokers.

The implementation of ASYCUDA has transformed the customs clearance process by reducing manual paperwork, expediting processing times, and improving transparency in trade transactions. Over the past year, stakeholders have benefited from a seamless and more structured approach to customs procedures, ensuring smoother trade facilitation and compliance with international standards.

One of the most significant advancements came in November 2024 with the launch of the first online payment option, allowing users to clear their goods completely online. This digital payment integration has further revolutionized the customs process, providing greater convenience for businesses and individuals while reducing the need for in-person transactions. The success of this initiative underscores Palau’s commitment to leveraging technology to enhance trade efficiency and border security.

Looking ahead, BCBP remains committed to continuous innovation and development. Efforts are already underway to further enhance system functionalities, optimize user experience, and integrate additional digital solutions to support border security and trade facilitation. These ongoing initiatives reflect BCBP’s dedication to ensuring effectiveness, efficiency, and a forward-thinking approach to customs management in Palau.

As we move forward, BCBP remains focused on strengthening its digital transformation efforts to better serve the people and businesses of Palau. The Bureau of Customs and Border Protection extends its appreciation to all stakeholders, partners, and users who have contributed to the success of ASYCUDA over the past year. The successful implementation of the ASYCUDAWorld system was supported by the European Union-funded Improving Pacific Islands Customs and Trade (IMPACT) Project implemented by the UN Trade and Development.

RMI Visitation with BCBP ASYCUDA

Republic of Marshall Islands BCBP-ASYCUDA Visitation

A delegation from the Republic of Marshall Islands Tax Reform and Modernization Commission recently wrapped up their visit to the Republic of Palau, participating in a comprehensive exchange of knowledge on digital transformation in customs and trade through #ASYCUDAWorld.

During their visit, the delegation observed the implementation and operation of the ASYCUDAWorld system for customs clearances at the Palau Bureau of Customs and Border Protection (BCBP). 

Special thanks to the Resident ASYCUDA Expert, Mr. Mohammed Rizwan Khan, for the insightful live demonstration of the system. His presentation showcased how ASYCUDAWorld is transforming trade processes and enhancing the collection of the Palau Goods and Services Tax (PGST). This visit underscores the importance of regional collaboration in driving reforms that shape customs and trade, paving the way for better opportunities and stronger economies throughout the region.