Administers the collection of customs duties and trade-related taxes at Belize’s ports of entry, while facilitating the legitimate movement of goods and services across borders. This function supports both revenue collection and Belize’s trade and investment competitiveness.
Key responsibilities:
- Administering the Customs and Excise Duties Act and related trade legislation at all ports of entry including airports, seaports, and land borders.
- Collecting import and export duties, excise taxes, and other trade-related levies on behalf of the Government of Belize.
- Implementing risk-based customs inspection and clearance procedures to facilitate trade while protecting revenue.
- Enforcing trade prohibitions and restrictions including controls on smuggling, narcotics, and prohibited goods.
- Administering duty exemptions and concessions granted under investment agreements, diplomatic privileges, and other statutory provisions.
- Coordinating with CARICOM, the World Trade Organisation (WTO), and other international bodies on trade policy and customs harmonization.
- Operating and maintaining the Automated System for Customs Data (ASYCUDA) for electronic customs processing.
- Training and capacity building for customs officers to maintain professional standards and updated knowledge of trade regulations.
