Licensed Customs Broker Susan Neil explains why customs brokers are a central yet often unseen component of effective trade facilitation. Drawing on Jamaica’s experience, she highlights how WTO-aligned licensing systems, consistent with Article 10.6 of the WTO Trade Facilitation Agreement, help ensure professional competence, integrity, and trust while balancing customs control with the facilitation of trade.
She also describes the role of customs brokers in translating digital trade facilitation reforms, including single window systems, into the accurate and timely movement of goods. Operating on the front line of trade, brokers act as the essential link between complex digital platforms and real-world logistics, while providing practical feedback to authorities that supports the continuous improvement of trade facilitation measures.
Susan Neil

