This Division was formerly known as the Regional Trade Facilitation Programme (RTFP). The name change came as a result of the growing global emphasis and focus on trade management which encompasses the Customs dual role of both facilitation and control. The inception of the Programme stems from the decision taken under the Pacific Plan where the Pacific Islands Forum Leaders agreed to establish a framework to promote greater regional co-operation and integration.

The primary role of the Division is to manage the capacity building projects relating to the Customs components of the Programme which include:

• Customs Automation
• WTO Valuation Agreement
• Harmonized Coding System (HS)
• Legislative Review & Updates
• Rules of Origin
• Customs Integrity; and
• Risk Management

The establishment of these systems and mechanisms, the members would be better positioned to meet the national, regional and international trade requirements for various free trade agreements and as such it will lead to stimulating the economic growth and prosperity in the region. As an implementing agency the Secretariat is responsible to oversee the delivery and implementation of projects at both regional and national levels.

• Our aims and objectives are to ensure that the members will be able to:
• Simplify and harmonize their business processes to bring them in line with international standards and conventions
• Contribute more effectively to the accomplishment of their national goals and priorities
• Undertake customs reform and modernization programs to improve their service delivery capacity
• Apply modern practices such as Risk Management, automated processing, post-clearance audit, etc. to adequately meet trade facilitation objectives
• Meet the challenges and demands facing the Customs administrations in the 21st Century.

Almost all of these programs are funded by external development partners including AusAID, NZAid and EU and the funding is channelled through the Pacific Islands Forum Secretariat (PIFS). The Division maintains a very close and active relationship with PIFS towards adopting a coordinated approach in implementing the reform programs for our members.

The Work Plan is developed in consultation with the members to ensure its alignment with national needs and priorities. The Division is currently staffed by a Programme Manager and a Programme Officer. However, within our 5 year Strategic Plan, the Division will expand to cover the continuous demands and needs from members in consultation with our development partners.