The Barbados Customs and Excise Department (BCED) has launched a comprehensive transformation initiative aimed at positioning itself as a regional leader in customs administration and a key driver of national economic growth.
A Strategic Vision for Global Competitiveness
Recognizing the critical role of customs in international trade, BCED has partnered with the World Customs Organization (WCO) and the China Customs Cooperation Fund (CCF China) to implement an ambitious technical reform and modernization program. This initiative goes beyond technological upgrades, encompassing operational efficiency, governance enhancement, revenue collection capabilities, trade facilitation, and stakeholder collaboration.
People-Centric Transformation
At the heart of BCED's reform strategy lies a commitment to human resource development. In October-November 2022, WCO experts conducted an intensive consultation mission in Bridgetown under their "Executive and Professional Competency-Based HRM Programme" framework. This collaboration focused on developing competency-based HR management tools and implementing change management strategies to establish a transparent, merit-based personnel system.
The new human resources management system aims to replace traditional seniority-based models with clear career pathways, equitable promotion opportunities, and enhanced professional development programs. This approach seeks to foster a culture of excellence while addressing critical areas such as recruitment, rotation processes, training, and integrity standards.
Organizational Restructuring and International Alignment
With support from the Ministry of Finance, BCED is pursuing greater operational autonomy for its HR department while undertaking a comprehensive reorganization to align with international standards and best practices. This structural transformation reflects a fundamental reimagining of the agency's role in Barbados' economic ecosystem.
Cultivating Institutional Pride and Engagement
BCED's modernization efforts extend to cultural transformation, emphasizing transparency, integrity, and employee engagement. Through extensive consultation and focus group sessions, staff have demonstrated strong support for the reforms, particularly regarding career development opportunities and equitable workplace policies.
Government Commitment to Reform
The WCO mission concluded with high-level discussions involving Barbados' Minister of Finance and Minister of the Civil Service, who affirmed government support for the HR modernization program. The ministers acknowledged the initiative's strategic importance and committed to extending similar approaches across other departments within the Ministry of Finance.
This modernization program represents a significant step in Barbados' efforts to enhance its global trade competitiveness while strengthening institutional capacity. The comprehensive nature of the reforms—combining technical upgrades, organizational restructuring, and human capital development—positions BCED to emerge as a regional model for customs administration and economic facilitation.