TCI Participates in Global Postal and Customs Security Forum

The Turks and Caicos Islands participated in the Global Post-Customs Forum on Security and Business Conference held at the Hilton Hotel in San Salvador, El Salvador, from 9–11 June 2026.

Mr. Emilio Seymour - Director General, Border Force and Mrs. Elizabeth James, Postmaster General.

The Forum brought together Postmasters General, Directors of Customs, and senior postal and border security officials from around the world to discuss the evolution of the postal market, electronic data interchange, emerging de minimis trends, regional security challenges, and strategies for effective risk governance across the global postal network.

Key areas of focus included international instruments that support collaboration between postal operators and customs administrations, as well as the advancement of ASYCUDA-CDS interconnectivity as a critical component of joint risk management and border security.

The Turks and Caicos Islands delegation was represented by Mrs. Elizabeth James, Postmaster General, and Mr. Emilio Seymour, Director General of Border Force. During the Forum, delegates examined approaches to strengthening cooperation between postal services and customs administrations. Discussions also focused on enhancing the exchange of electronic data, improving risk assessment capabilities, preventing the movement of illicit goods through postal and customs channels, and addressing the financial and operational implications of compliance with regional and international regulations.

The Forum was sponsored by the Universal Postal Union (UPU) and attended by representatives from 80 countries. Participation in the Forum provided an opportunity for the Turks and Caicos Islands to engage with international partners, share experiences, and gain insights into emerging trends and best practices affecting postal operations, customs administration, trade facilitation, and border security.

The Government of the Turks and Caicos Islands remains committed to strengthening border security, promoting international cooperation, and adopting modern practices that support secure and efficient postal and customs operations. The knowledge gained from the Forum will contribute to ongoing efforts to enhance collaboration, improve operational effectiveness, and facilitate legitimate trade and commerce.