The Fiji Revenue and Customs Service (FRCS) and the Biosecurity Authority of Fiji (BAF) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Nawi Island Marina in Savusavu that formalises a strategic partnership to strengthen cooperation in the delivery of its respective services and mandates.
This agreement enables sharing of relevant information and resources, consultation and mutual assistance during joint operations when required, and coordinated surveillance activities to safeguard Fiji’s borders.
It also aims to promote, enhance, and strengthen cooperation in line with the vision and missions of the respective organisations, while supporting capacity building on matters of mutual interest.
According to Nawi Island Marina, it will provide designated operational space for border agencies operating within the marina and facilitate access to CCTV live monitoring.
FRCS chief customs officer Nausad Ali said strong partnerships and engagement made them more effective in protecting the country’s borders.
“Border security remains a critical priority in ensuring compliance and supporting legitimate industry participants. At the same time, those who engage in illegal activities will face the full consequences of the law,” Mr Ali said.
He said through such collaboration, they strengthened their collective efforts to ensure every Fijian was protected from harmful and illicit substances entering domestic shores.
“We acknowledge and thank Nawi Island Marina for their support in providing space and resources to assist our officers in carrying out their duties.”
BAF acting chief executive officer Surend Pratap commended the collective efforts displayed and noted the importance of strong partnerships and collaboration in maintaining effective biosecurity measures and safeguarding Fiji’s natural resources and agricultural sector.
The parties acknowledged the MoU’s representation of a significant step toward improving inter-agency cooperation and ensuring the continued protection, safety, and biosecurity of Fiji’s borders.
The signing ceremony was held at Nawi Island Marina and was attended by Mr Ali, Mr Pratap, Nawi Island Marina general manager Jitendra Prasad, Nawi Island chief of security Clarence Reid, Marina manager Grace Lee and HR manager Annie Simpson, Nawi Island’s marine biologist Sarah Makutu and officers from the respective agencies.
