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Web Story: Evidence-based Decision Making Made Easier In FSM

Web Story: Evidence-based Decision Making Made Easier In FSM

Scoop23-04-2025

Press Release – ASYCUDA Pacific Regional Office
The ASYCUDA Dashboard is a tool that ensures transparency for our Administrations Management, giving them direct access to the data, Mr. David explained.
One year ago, the Customs and Tax Administration (CTA) of the Federated States of Micronesia (FSM) introduced the UN Trade and Development (UNCTAD) backed ASYCUDA system, automating customs processes.
Since its implementation, the trading community has greatly benefited from the system's ability to streamline and expedite customs clearance.
Additionally, the ASYCUDA Dashboard feature has brought greater transparency and improved accuracy in data reporting for the CTA management.
Mr. Van David, a Data Analyst in the Federated States of Micronesia, noted that the country was fortunate to implement the Dashboard soon after it introduced ASYCUDA, as it provided significant advantages in reporting.
'The ASYCUDA Dashboard is a tool that ensures transparency for our Administration's Management, giving them direct access to the data,' Mr. David explained.
Previously, data would be extracted and manually presented to the management team. However, with the ASYCUDA Dashboard in place, management now has immediate, real-time access to the data.
'Now, when we submit monthly reports, management can directly compare the data and verify its accuracy,' Mr. David said.
'The ability of the Dashboard to drill down into specific data as needed has significantly simplified the reporting process for the ASYCUDA team in FSM, transforming what used to be a cumbersome task into a seamless operation.'
'Though we are still new to both ASYCUDA, we recognize that there are additional features that could further enhance our operations in the future. The addition of the Dashboard has already been an immense advantage for us in FSM,' Mr. David concluded.
The successful automation of the FSM Customs Administration was made possible through the support of the European Union-funded Improving Pacific Islands Customs and Trade (IMPACT) Project, implemented by the UN Trade and Development.

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Toward a Brighter Future Today, Maka is well on its way to emerging from its long history of seclusion. The the adoption of efficient agricultural techniques coupled with the restoration of market linkages have set the stage for sustainable development. As Damia reflects on the journey, her gratitude is evident: 'Thank you for everything, thank you for the fish and cocoa you provided, and thank you for all the support. We now have these things, and we feel very happy.' Her heartfelt words echo the sentiment of a community poised for change. Together, Joseph, Damia, and their neighbours are not only rewriting the story of Maka—they are forging a collective path toward a future defined by resilience, cooperation, and hope. Ensuring Long-Term Sustainability Sustainability is at the heart of the EU-STREIT PNG Programme's vision for lasting change. While the Programme rehabilitated a cocoa nursery to support local farmers in Maka to revitalize their cocoa blocks, long-term success depends on continued government ownership and investment. Recognizing this, the Cocoa Board of Papua New Guinea has now stepped in to oversee and support the nursery, ensuring its continued operation and benefit to the community. In parallel, the Cocoa Tarde and Depot Facility is handed over to be run by West Sepik Investment Limited, the business arm of the Provincial Government. The This transition reflects the Programme's core objective which is empowering institutions to take ownership so that these advancements endure beyond Programme interventions, and to foster a sustainable cocoa business in for Maka. A Flagship under the EU's Global Gateway EU-STREIT PNG contributes to the EU's Global Gateway Strategy by driving rural transformation through climate-resilient agriculture, sustainable infrastructure, and digital innovation. 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Additionally, the Programme strengthens and improves the efficiency of value chain enablers, including access to Information & Communication Technology (ICT) by the International Telecommunication Union (ITU) and digital financial services by UNCDF. ILO also supports the development of sustainable, climate-resilient roads and other transport infrastructures while UNDP provides renewable energy solutions. The Programme directly benefits two provinces: East Sepik and West Sepik.

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