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The Haitian Customs Authority (Administration Générale des Douanes, AGD) has set a new revenue record, collecting over 13 billion gourdes in December 2024. This marks the highest monthly revenue in the institution’s history, signaling a significant achievement despite challenging economic conditions.
For the first time, the AGD surpassed 13 billion gourdes in monthly collections, reporting 13,164,842,946 gourdes for December 2024. This figure represents 108% of the target set by the Haitian government, exceeding initial forecasts of 12.15 billion gourdes by over one billion.
Compared to December 2023, when the AGD collected 11.39 billion gourdes, this performance reflects a year-over-year increase of 16%, or 1.7 billion gourdes. The achievement comes despite a 9% decline in import volume, with tonnage dropping from 416 million to 382 million tons between December 2023 and 2024.
The AGD attributes this success to enhanced control and verification measures, combined with the dedication of customs officers.
The AGD has consistently improved its performance, breaking its previous record of 12.08 billion gourdes, set in May 2023.
The record-breaking December capped a strong first quarter for the fiscal year 2024-2025. The AGD collected 30.89 billion gourdes during this period, achieving 97% of the government’s revenue target of 31.88 billion gourdes.
Customs revenue remains a vital pillar of Haiti’s public finances, playing a critical role in funding government policies and addressing economic challenges.
Haiti’s economic landscape remains strained, marked by a sixth consecutive year of negative GDP growth and a 4.2% contraction in 2024. However, there are signs of recovery:
- Inflation has slowed significantly, dropping from 44.1% in 2023 to 25.8% in 2024.
- Remittances from the diaspora have reached unprecedented levels, totaling $4.1 billion, up 9.5% from the previous year.
These factors have bolstered household consumption and helped mitigate the impact of economic and security challenges.
The AGD’s performance highlights the potential for public institutions to deliver results even in difficult circumstances. With strategic reforms and continued commitment, the customs authority is proving to be a cornerstone of Haiti’s fiscal stability.
Future success will depend on maintaining momentum while addressing broader challenges such as insecurity and economic recovery. Programs like HOPE and HELP, which support Haiti’s garment industry, and initiatives targeting investment growth, remain critical to national recovery efforts.
