Govt Launches Trade Stream Digital Platform for Business Transactions

The Ministry of Trade on Thursday launched the Trade Stream Online Platform. The digital trade platform is an initiative of the government aimed at boosting the efficiency and costs of regional trade. Present at the launch was the Minister for Trade, Vince Henderson; Minister for Labour, Miriam Blanchard; Acting Comproller of Customs, Vincent Christmas; and notable public figures.

Henderson said that Trade Stream online platform will enable businessmen to obtain permits, licenses, and trade documents required for importation and exportation of goods and services. He said the platform will reduce the costs of moving goods across countries and that this will ultimately bring down the prices of products in Dominica.

In order for Trade Stream to become a reality, the support of the Ministry of Trade is critical. The Ministry of Trade is the focal point of the government and the authority of the government of Dominica to interact with the World Trade Organization (WTO) and fully responsible for the implementation of those obligations which Dominica must recognize.

Hon. Vince Henderson, Minister for Trade

The Minister of Trade revealed that the trade ministry is also responsible for inter-regional trade within the CARICOM and throughout the Caribbean.

Meanwhile, Christmas noted that Trade Stream will revolutionize the Dominican trade landscape. He said the initiative will enhance digital processes needed to expedite business deals at the lowest costs. He added that the online platform will help to expand global trade and investment opportunities for all Dominicans within and outside the Nature Isle.

Customs is one of the government’s only departments which is mandated to collect and protect revenues. Protect society…and facilitate trade among others. Today, our focus here is on Trade Stream, which is a trade facilitation tool. It is a digital platform which will set the stage for transformative chapter in Dominica’s trade environment.

Vincent Christmas, Acting Comproller of Customs

In her reaction, Blanchard said the government is working through the Ministry of Labour to fully automate applications and processing of work permits in the country. As part of the National Reset Agenda, the labour minister said her ministry is testing the efficiency of automating work permits so that waiting times or unforeseen processing delays can be eliminated.

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