BARRIGADA, Guam - In the company of Guam Customs and Quarantine Agency (CQA) personnel and collaborative partners, Gov. Lourdes Leon Guerrero joined CQA Director Ike Peredo Sept. 18 at the Ricardo J. Bordallo Governor’s Complex to sign an agreement with the United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD) to formally commence work toward the deployment of the Automated System for Customs Data (ASYCUDA).

The ASYCUDA is a computer-based customs data management system developed by UNCTAD that supports trade facilitation processes in line with standards held by the International Organization for Standardization, World Customs Organization, World Trade Organization, and the United Nations.

CQA personnel have utilized manual, paper-based document processing since the 1950s with limiting use of digital tools and applications.

The ASYCUDA will refine and streamline customs functions, such as revenue collection, submission of manifests and entry declarations, data collection and management, generation of trade data for statistical economic analysis and exchange, ensuring transaction transparency, and enhancing risk and threat assessments to fortify enforcement efforts.

“This agreement checks all the boxes for modernizing multiple customs functions,” said Governor Leon Guerrero. “The Guam Customs and Quarantine Agency is the first line of defense for our island, and ASYCUDA is a 21st century solution to the challenges they face.”

Furthermore, use of the ASYCUDA advances all 17 UN Sustainable Development Goals, supporting Guam’s locally driven sustainability agenda through the Guam Green Growth initiative.

“This modernization is not simply about introducing new technology. It is about creating a customs environment that responds effectively to the needs of traders, government agencies, and the wider economy,” said Peredo. “It also brings our operations closer to the standards and requirements of international trade, helping us become more competitive and better connected to the global trading system while achieving long-term sustainability for our agency and island.”

“UNCTAD appreciates the confidence shown by the Guam Customs and Quarantine Agency in partnering with us for this important modernization effort,” said Renaud Massenet, Chief of the ASYCUDA Programme at UNCTAD.

“Deploying ASYCUDA will modernize Guam’s customs operations by boosting efficiency, transparency, and data-driven decision-making, all while facilitating legitimate trade and strengthening border security. Over the coming months, we look forward to partnering closely with CQA and local stakeholders to deliver a sustainable, tailor-made solution that addresses the agency’s automation needs in alignment with international best practices”.