Immigration & Customs

Mission

To contribute to the economic performance, public finances and security of Belize by enforcing the customs and excise laws, facilitating trade, collection and safeguarding the revenue, combating smuggling, promoting and upholding fair trade practices, fostering cordial relations with stakeholders and valuing and respecting our human resources.

Vision

To be recognized nationally and internationally for excellence in customs administration and service

Values

Responsiveness: accurate, timely provision of quality service

Integrity: Continually demonstrate high moral and ethical behavior while upholding the rule of law (truthful, mutual respect, fair, honest, open, trust, professional performance)

Transparency: Openness and sharing of all relevant information to external and internal stakeholders

Efficiency: Timely, cost effective use of resources to maximize results in the delivery of service and information

Products & Services

The functions of the department are as follows:

The assessment and collection of Customs Revenue on commodities imported into and exported out of the State.
Interpretation and application of local and external tariffs and customs conventions.
Customs preventive work.
Supervision of bonded warehouses and other customs areas.
Institution and formulation of tax policies under Customs and Excise Laws and any other relevant legislation.
Supervision of distilleries and breweries.
Certifying authority for exports of manufactured and wholly produced goods to the CARICOM, E.E.C. and U.S.A. under the respective international trade conventions.
Boarding and clearing of vessels entering and departing our waters; and
Agency duties for other Ministries e.g. import/export restrictions

To execute these functions the department's officers are positioned on the borders and established Ports of Entry of Belize and are the first line of defense while collecting the prescribed Revenue according to the laws of Belize, one of which is in Punta Gorda.

The growth in trade within the Hemisphere, the quickening pace of technology and the need to implement business facilitation measures, bring challenging times to the department and its staff of 148 officers.

The Customs and Excise Department is committed to preparing its staff to successfully meet these challenges of a new world by supporting and enhancing professionalism and adopting procedures that will support a timely global system of free trade.

Where to Find Us

Punta Gorda

Hours

MON		FRI
TUES		SAT
WED		SUN
THURS

On the Map