SVG Joins the World Customs Organization, Gains Access to Global Customs Training and Expertise

A photograph of the new Kingstown Port as posted by the Agency for Public Information.

By S. Browne. Updated 3:07 p.m., Tuesday, December 9, 2025, Atlantic Standard Time (GMT-4).

The Customs and Excise Department has announced that Saint Vincent and the Grenadines (SVG) officially joined the World Customs Organization (WCO) on 17th September, 2025. Membership of the WCO is said to open doors to knowledge-sharing opportunities, technical expertise, and capacity-building initiatives.

The department explained that through its accession, Saint Vincent and the Grenadines joins the global Customs community dedicated to facilitating trade, enhancing border security, and advancing international cooperation.

It added that such membership will enable the country to strengthen its Customs Administration, aligning with global standards and best practices to promote efficient and secure trade flows. “Saint Vincent and the Grenadines will now sit at WCO’s various working bodies, including the WCO Council, which will convene the Heads of global Customs Administrations meeting in June 2026,” the department stated.

WCO Secretary General, Mr. Ian Saunders, welcomed the country’s accession, stating: “Saint Vincent and the Grenadines joins the WCO at a time when Customs Administrations around the world are navigating a period of increased complexity, but also one of great opportunity. The WCO remains a source of high-quality, forward-thinking support and leadership, reinforcing the resilience, adaptability, and efficiency of Customs Administrations. I look forward to working with Saint Vincent and the Grenadines to advance Customs’ mission of facilitating legitimate trade, ensuring fair revenue collection, and protecting society.”

Saint Vincent and the Grenadines has become the 187th member to join the World Customs Organization.

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