Belmopan. February 28, 2023.
On February 27, 2023, the Directorate General for Foreign Trade, under the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Foreign Trade, and Immigration, launched the Stakeholder Consultation for the Feasibility Study for the Development of an Electronic Single Window for Trade in Belize.
The overall objective of the study, supported by the Caribbean Development Bank (CDB) and the Organization of American States Inter-American Committee on Ports (OAS-CIP), is to advise the Government of Belize on the technical, legal, and financial requirements for the establishment and operation of an Electronic Single Window (ESW). The ESW will further advance Belize’s trade-related automation effort across the government.
Electronic Single Windows modernize trade, optimize revenue collection, and improve border security. The single window concept creates a single-entry point for all information related to the clearance of goods. Implementing the ESW will drastically simplify and streamline import and export regulations by enhancing inter-agency collaboration, simplifying procedures, and harmonizing data requirements and documents. Furthermore, it would align Belize with international best practices and commitments under the World Trade Organization Trade Facilitation Agreement and facilitate the participation of small and medium enterprises in international trade.
The OAS-CIP team will consult with relevant government agencies and private sector representatives over the next week. The information and insights from the consultations will inform the remainder of the OAS-CIP team study, allowing the Government of Belize to implement an effective and efficient system in the country.
Ends
For more information, please contact:
Directorate General for Foreign Trade
Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Foreign Trade, and Immigration
880-2833
