Fiji Ports Corporation Limited’s Chief Operating Officer, Upali De Zoysa, addressed the significant topic of enhancing border and port management during the recent Inter-Agency Border Partnership Meeting. This key event took place on October 22, 2025, at the Fiji Revenue and Customs Service office in Nadi, bringing together various stakeholders to discuss the crucial goals of improving collaboration for secure and efficient trade.
The meeting focused on fostering better coordination among all border agencies while allowing participants to openly discuss existing operational challenges and devise practical solutions that would benefit Fiji in multiple ways. Key areas of discussion included enhancing inter-agency communication and intelligence sharing, tackling emerging challenges such as illicit goods and human trafficking, and reinforcing operational efficiency at ports, airports, and maritime borders.
Furthermore, the meeting aimed to align the efforts of different agencies with Fiji’s national security priorities. The participants explored opportunities for joint training, resource sharing, and technological innovation as part of a comprehensive approach to bolster Fiji’s security framework. A unified border management strategy that ensures the facilitation of trade and travel while upholding high standards of security and compliance was emphasized.
This meeting aligns with Fiji’s ongoing commitment to enhancing border security, which has also been underscored by previous conferences and initiatives led by the Ministry of Home Affairs and Immigration. These efforts include discussions about the unique challenges faced in safeguarding Fiji’s maritime territories, as emphasized during earlier conferences supported by the UK government and UNDP.
The discussions from these meetings highlight a growing understanding of the necessity for inter-agency collaboration, fostering a proactive approach to ensuring both national security and economic resilience. The collaboration among various agencies not only aims to address immediate border security concerns but is also a step towards building a more secure and prosperous future for Fiji.
Overall, Fiji’s initiatives in border management and maritime security reflect a hopeful trend towards strategic coordination and innovation, ensuring the security of the nation’s borders while promoting an environment conducive to legitimate trade and tourism.