The Fiji Revenue and Customs Service (FRCS) has intensified enforcement operations to curb the growing misuse of Customs concessions granted to visiting yachts under Concession Code 228, Schedule 2 of the Customs Tariff Act 1986.
Customs officers have recently charged the owners and masters of three foreign-registered yachts after investigations revealed serious breaches of concession conditions.
The yachts, temporarily imported for personal and private use, were found to be offering charter and paid cruising services within Fiji waters.
Under Fiji’s Customs laws, yachts brought in temporarily by tourists qualify for duty concessions only if used for non-commercial purposes.
Engaging in charter or paid passenger services constitutes a clear violation of concession terms and renders the vessel liable for full duty, as well as penalties of up to $25,000 or imprisonment of up to 10 years.
FRCS Chief Executive Officer Mr. Udit Singh said the Service remains committed to protecting Fiji’s borders and ensuring fairness among legitimate operators.
“These concessions are designed to promote marine tourism and make Fiji an attractive destination for visiting yachts,” Mr Singh said.
“However, abuse of these facilities undermines the integrity of the system, disadvantages compliant operators, and deprives the nation of rightful revenue. FRCS has stepped up surveillance and will not hesitate to take firm enforcement action against offenders.”
FRCS has reminded visiting yacht owners, masters, and agents that temporary import concessions are conditional and must be strictly followed.
Those intending to conduct business or commercial operations must first obtain the necessary approvals and pay all applicable duties and taxes.
