By: Momodou Justice Darboe
The Commissioner General of the Gambia Revenue Authority (GRA), Hon. Yankuba Darboe, has reaffirmed the GRA’s commitment to implementing the Authorized Economic Operator Program (AOE) in line with the Authority’s comprehensive corporate strategic plan 2025-2029.
CG Darboe emphasized that the GRA’s resolve to executing the AOE program is motivated by the need to align the corporate plan with international standards, particularly those outlined in the World Trade Organization’s Trade Facilitation Agreement.
The GRA boss was speaking on Monday during the opening of ceremony of a workshop on the development of the key documents for GRA’s AOE program at the Senegambia Hotel.
According to Hon. Darboe, AOE program is a building block of modern customs practices globally.
“As known to all of us, the Authorized Economic Operator (AOE) program is a cornerstone of modern customs practices worldwide. It represents a paradigm shift in the way customs administrations and businesses interact, transforming a relationship often characterized by enforcement into one founded on trust and collaboration,” CG explained.
“In light of this, this workshop will mark a critical step in laying the foundation for the success of the AOE program in The Gambia. The development of key documents such as the AOE manual, application forms and validation checklists isessential to ensure clarity, transparency and consistency in program implementation,” he added.
The GRA boss highlighted that these documents will serve as a template for stakeholder engagement.
“These documents will serve as a blueprint for engaging with our stakeholders, evaluating applicants, and administering the program in alignment with international standards. They will also reinforce our commitment to ensuring that the AOE framework is inclusive, efficient and beneficial to all parties,” he underlined.
CG Darboe also emphasized that the GRA is committed to fostering a business-friendly environment that leverages technology, innovation and global best practices to streamline custom processes, adding that this is a key pillar in the Authority’s efforts to make The Gambia a competitive trade hub in the region.
“Let me emphasize that the implementation of the AOE program is not just about improving customs operations-it is about building a more prosperous and resilient economy,” he told the participants.
He expressed “profound gratitude” to development partners such as the World Customs Organization(WCO) and Her Majesty’s Revenue and Customs(HMRC) for what, he described as, their unwavering support in making the workshop a reality.
“Your collaboration and dedication have been instrumental in advancing trade facilitation efforts in The Gambia, most particularly GRA,” acknowledged CG Darboe.
He advised the participants to remain focussed on GRA’s shared vision of modern and efficient customs systems that facilitates trade, promotes compliance and drives economic growth.
