Haiti: Strengthening Customs Administration in an Insecure Environment

Haiti is experiencing a severe security crisis with increasing armed gang presence that has significantly affected social conditions and economic activities. This crisis has created major constraints and challenges for basic customs operations, with gangs threatening and closing airports and seaports in Port-au-Prince. The situation deteriorated further with political instability including the resignation of Acting Prime Minister Ariel Henry.

Customs practices and policies have significant potential to strengthen state legitimacy and build trust between government and citizens. Increased customs revenues could provide fiscal space for critical public services like health, education, and social protection, while visible improvements in governance and reduced corruption could demonstrate government responsiveness. The report notes that customs administrations typically continue operating during crisis situations unlike other government services.

The security crisis has severely impacted port activities, land border operations, and customs surveillance capabilities. Gang activity has disrupted trade flows, created additional security costs for economic operators, and enabled increased smuggling activities. The Haiti Customs Administration (AGD) faces structural weaknesses in responding to security challenges while trying to implement modernization efforts.

The report provides detailed recommendations for improving customs performance under current security circumstances, including digitalization initiatives, infrastructure strengthening, capacity building for surveillance, monitoring practices to reduce corruption, implementing consultation frameworks, and increasing cooperation with foreign customs administrations particularly Dominican Customs.