KOROR, Palau – Paying customs duties for goods arriving at Palau’s ports, post office, and airport is now possible from the comfort of home or office, thanks to the launch of the country’s first e-payment system by the Bureau of Customs and Border Protection (BCBP).
The e-payment system, developed by an ASYCUDA expert at the request of the BCBP, aims to streamline the customs payment process, allowing users to complete transactions instantly from “anywhere, at any time.” The system was officially unveiled yesterday at the Satellite Office of the President in Meyuns, Koror.
“This system is a testament to our commitment to innovation and efficiency,” said BCBP Director John Tarkong. “It enables customs declaration payments to be made entirely online, making the process faster, more streamlined, and accessible from anywhere in the world.”
Having been operational for a month, the e-payment platform is seen as a transformative step toward modernizing Palau’s customs operations and enhancing service quality for citizens and trade partners alike.
“This milestone is more than a technological advancement. It represents a commitment to efficiency, empowering businesses, and positioning Palau as a leader in secure and modern customs operations,” Tarkong said.
President Surangel Whipps Jr. praised the BCBP for implementing the system, emphasizing its significance as a regional first. “We’re extremely excited because Palau is the first to launch this online payment system,” Whipps said.
The president highlighted the broader impact of the project on trade operations and border security. “This step forward enhances Palau’s ability to track imports and exports, strengthens partnerships, and develops essential trade policies,” he said. He also thanked the European Union for its funding support through the IMPACT (Improving Pacific Islands Customs and Trade) Project, implemented by the UN Conference on Trade and Development.
Jayvee Santos, UN Trade and Development’s Regional Coordinator for Asia and the Pacific commended Palau for its efficient rollout of the system. “Palau was able to do it in a matter of months and it is a great testament to coordination between Customs and other government teams, and motivation for innovation,” Santos said.
The e-payment system offers users a convenient way to pay customs duties for imports but retains traditional payment options for those unable to use the online platform.
For more information, visit the BCBP website at https://bcbp.pw/ or access a step-by-step video guide to using the system at https://bcbp.pw/?p=4256.