The Fiji Revenue and Customs Service (FRCS) Maritime Seaport Enforcement Team has made a significant breakthrough in intercepting 57,740 undeclared cigarette sticks over the past financial year. Cigarettes, known as highly dutiable goods, are frequent targets for smuggling by seafarers at ports, impacting government revenue due to intentional non-declaration aimed at evading import duties.
FRCS Chief Executive Udit Singh stressed the detrimental effects of such smuggling, which deprives the nation of vital funds essential for development and disrupts the fairness among law-abiding taxpayers and businesses. The act of smuggling directly impacts the government’s ability to sustain national development by reducing potential revenue.
The FRCS urges travelers, seafarers, and shipping agents to make honest and accurate declarations upon arrival to avoid penalties and legal consequences. Singh emphasized that the recent interception underscores the important role the FRCS plays in securing Fiji’s borders, protecting government revenue, and facilitating sustainable national growth.
In past operations, Fiji’s customs officials have uncovered sophisticated smuggling techniques, such as hiding high-value goods within everyday items like water bottles or on fishing vessels. These findings are often the result of collaborative efforts between the FRCS, the Fiji Police Force, and the Maritime Safety Authority of Fiji (MSAF).
Such operations demonstrate the continuous dedication of the FRCS and its partners to protecting the nation’s supply chains from illegal activities, ensuring adherence to customs regulations, and maintaining a lawful trading environment. Their proactive and collaborative efforts aim to curb illegal trade, promote fair competition, and enhance economic security.
The FRCS’s recent interception of undeclared cigarettes reaffirms the agency’s commitment to maintaining the integrity of Fiji’s borders and economic systems. With stringent checks and community vigilance, there is optimism for creating an environment that discourages smuggling and supports legitimate trade.