Overview Of Department

Our Role

The key function of the Customs Department is the Collection and Protection of the Revenue of The Bahamas.

Currently, there are three specific mandates: The equitable collection of revenue, protection of The Bahamas’ borders against illicit imports and the facilitation of trade. The Customs Department carries out these functions by:

• Assessing and collecting customs duties, fees, and penalties due on imports;
• Interdicting and seizing contraband, including narcotics and illegal drugs;
• Processing passengers, baggage, cargo and mail;
• Detecting and apprehending persons engaged in fraudulent practices designed to circumvent Customs related laws;
• Protecting intellectual property rights by enforcing the laws intended to prevent illegal trade practices, including provisions related to quotas; and by providing Customs Records for copyrights, patents, trademarks;
• Protecting the general welfare and security of The Bahamas by enforcing import and export restrictions and prohibitions, including money laundering.

All Customs activities are governed by the Customs Management Act 2011. In addition to our duties, The Customs Department also collect additional revenue on behalf of Civil Aviation, Ministry of Tourism, Road Traffic Department, Ministry of Agriculture and Fisheries, other Government Ministries and Departments.

SCOPE OF RESPONSIBILITY

The scope of responsibility under the Department is immense and stretches across the archipelago of the Bahamas.

Currently, there are 32 official Ports of Entry. In addition, numerous sufferance wharfs approved by the Comptroller of Customs are located throughout The Bahamas.  This includes all Airports and Docks within these ports. Also, the Department controls all imports and exports from and to The Bahamas. Furthermore, Customs provides the initial protection at the borders from illegal drugs, contraband, firearms and all other prohibited and restricted goods

VISION

To be a world class organisation with an engaged staff that provides modernized practices to realize our mandated objectives, utilizing cutting-edge technology.

MISSION STATEMENT

Provide professional Customs services through effective utilisation of modern technology, networking with stakeholders and legislation that facilitates legitimate trade while protecting our borders. 

VALUES (Seven Cs of Customs)

The seven (7) stripes represent the seven “Cs” of Customs, which is a set of moral codes that guide the individual Customs Officer:

1. Clean Hands, both literally and morally
2. Courtesy, without loss of dignity
3. Command attention
4. Clear questioning
5. Consult colleagues
6. Careful examinations
7. Control the situation

MANDATE

• Equitable collection of revenue
• Protection of The Bahamas’ borders against illicit imports
• Facilitate trade

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