ICT INFRASTRUCTURE UPGRADE PROJECT – TONGA CUSTOMS
The world is turning digital, faster than we could have imagined, and public administrations and international trade platforms are also moving online just as fast.
For Tonga Customs, the use of ICT platforms has vastly transformed the way it operates to serve the country to protect our Tongan borders, facilitate international trade and collecting vital government revenue through duties and taxes. Over the years, it’s use of ICT has advanced to use in office automation, the use of the internet to publish and disseminate information, the use of automated cargo clearance systems and performance of risk management and enforcement.
Building on this success of its use of ICT, Tonga Customs has now embarked on a major of ICT INFRASTRUCTURE UPGRADE PROJECT that will see the modernization of its computer server infrastructure at the head office in Tongatapu, improved data back-up and the development stable links from head office located at Fe`ao Moe Ngalu Customs Building to its Offices and inspections areas, including, the Queen Salote Wharf, Fua`amotu International airport and its other major outer-island Office located at the ‘Halaevalu International wharf located in Neiafu.
Apart from improved connectivity, these modern ICT technologies will set the foundations for improved and more efficient service delivery from Customs at all of Tonga’s major ports of entry as well as enabling future developments in Customs automation that is also currently being implemented under the PACER Plus ASYCUDA Project.
In addition to the upgrading of computer servers and improved connectivity, the project will also see the introduction of thin-client systems to improve front office processing. This will definitely enhance the productivity and efficiency of Customs procedures, improving timeframes for the release of goods and ultimately cutting costs usually incurred by businesses due to delay caused by outdated ICT infrastructure.
In view of the major works currently being undertaken, Tonga Customs also wishes to apologize for any temporary delay in our services that are a direct result of this ICT upgrade process which will include the plugging in and out of wiring and computers as well as testing. The good news is, this process should be completed by early August and our customers and stakeholders can expect a much more efficient ICT infrastructure to serve their needs.
The Government of Tonga has contracted Christchurch based, New Zealand ICT Company Server Works Limited to implement this project. Server Works Limited has vast experience in providing ICT support and solutions in the Asia Pacific region.
This implementation of this project is also being made possible with the assistance of MEIDECC , Tonga Communications Corporation(TCC) , Tonga Airport Ltd and Ports Authority Tonga Ltd.
