“The online payment portal and platform is just one small measure amongst the many that Customs is implementing to improve processing times for the clearance of cargo, create an easier environment for traders, and fulfill that ease of doing business mandate.”
Emmanuel explains that the platform forms part of a larger strategic vision that includes paperless initiatives and technological upgrades designed to improve service delivery and strengthen Saint Lucia’s competitiveness.
Prior to the introduction of the online system, importers and brokers were often required to visit Customs offices in person, stand in long lines, and complete transactions during limited business hours. Today, those same payments can be made electronically around the clock.
“This online payment portal created a facility so that persons can now pay 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, from anywhere in the world. It also created a transparency that did not exist so much before. A broker can go out to make a payment on your behalf and they could come back with a receipt, but it is what they are submitting to you that you have to ascribe to, as opposed to making a direct electronic contact with the Customs Department through our website, and getting that email notification confirming what you’ve paid.”
The platform became fully operational in July 2025 following a phased implementation process that began in 2023. According to Senior Customs Officer Vedlina Polius-Modeste, approximately sixty percent of Customs clients, particularly within the commercial sector, are already using the online payment system. She says the department is now focusing on increasing participation among non-commercial users, including individuals clearing barrels, baggage, and other personal effects.
“We are trying to get the non-commercial aspect fully on board. We are streamlining our processes to allow persons coming to do the regular barrel clearance or small, non-commercial aspect cleared through the, or paid, I should say, through the online payment. Anyone could use this platform, as long as they have a credit card or bank card.”
The technology behind the system is managed by the Customs Information Technology Unit. Senior Customs Officer Antonia Calixte explains that the platform is integrated with the ASYCUDA customs management system and uses one-time password authentication to safeguard transactions.
“The online payment platform allows anyone with internet access, an email address, and a credit or debit card to pay customs duties and charges from a mobile phone, tablet, laptop, or desktop computer. Payments can even be made by someone overseas on behalf of a family member in Saint Lucia.”
Senior Broker at Joseph Shipping Agency and President of the Saint Lucia Customs Brokers Association, Sylvester Louis, says the platform has fundamentally changed the way brokers conduct business.
“I don’t think I can overstate the convenience of the online payment platform. So, those of us who work on the evenings or weekends or even holidays, we can make our payments and have our documentation ready to go for the very next working day. As long as you have the funds to cover it, you can make that payment and it goes through immediately. You pay it from the convenience of your office, you print as many copies of the receipt as you want, and if there’s any issue that arises, the Customs IT Department is there to respond to you virtually, instantaneously. It is stable, it’s reliable, and it’s pretty much the best way to make your payments.”
Louis noted that the platform has significantly increased transaction flexibility by raising the maximum payment limit from EC$99,000 to EC$270,000 per transaction. He is encouraging brokers and importers who have not yet adopted the online payment system to do so, citing its convenience, reliability, and potential to deliver substantial productivity gains while accelerating the clearance process.