The Customs and Trade Policy (CTP) Programme plays a central role in advancing the effective operation and deepening of the CARICOM Single Market and Economy (CSME). It develops, coordinates and monitors regional customs and trade policies that promote predictable, transparent and harmonised trade regimes and facilitates the seamless movement of goods of Community origin.

Guided by the Revised Treaty of Chaguaramas and decisions of the Council for Trade and Economic Development (COTED), the Programme supports CARICOM Member States efforts in implementing harmonised customs legislation and procedures, administering the Common External Tariff (CET), strengthening rules of origin, promoting collaborative initiatives to reduce trade frictions and strengthening regional competitiveness and fair trade. Efforts which contribute to improved business predictability, lower transaction costs and overall efficiency of the CSME.