The Fiji Revenue and Customs Service (FRCS) has drawn attention to the impact of border delays on costs for businesses and consumers alike. In response to this pressing issue, the agency has unveiled its National Time Release Study Report 2025, aimed at streamlining airfreight clearance processes.
Udit Singh, the Chief Executive of FRCS, highlighted the study as an essential resource for pinpointing logistical inefficiencies and advancing trade operations. He emphasized the importance of timely cargo clearance, particularly since airports provide round-the-clock services. This prompt processing is crucial for the swift delivery of essential items, such as pharmaceuticals, perishables, and high-value shipments.
“This initiative represents a vital step toward enhancing the effectiveness and efficiency of border procedures while maintaining the integrity of trade control measures,” Singh remarked. He also pointed out the significant cost discrepancies between air and sea freight, illustrating how delays can escalate overall expenses considerably.
The study has meticulously assessed the time taken for imported goods to be released and cleared, with findings expected to pave the way for reforms that align Fiji’s border procedures with global best practices. Singh noted that adopting the study’s recommendations could greatly enhance Fiji’s trading capabilities, bolstering its role in international supply chains.
The initiative received support from the World Customs Organization, the World Bank Group, and various local stakeholders, including the Biosecurity Authority of Fiji, Air Terminal Services, and the Ministry of Health and Medical Services, along with industry representatives.
Singh concluded by asserting that successfully implementing the report’s suggestions would lower trade costs, boost border efficiency, and ultimately aid in the growth and competitiveness of businesses across Fiji. This proactive approach reflects a promising commitment to enhancing Fiji’s economic environment and building a more resilient trading framework.