Every resource diverted to addressing the threats of the illicit drug trade is one less investment in education, infrastructure, and opportunity for Fijians.
Finance Minister Esrom Immanuel pointed this out while opening the 28th Annual Conference of the Oceania Customs Organisation (OCO) at the Intercontinental Fiji Golf Resort in Natadola.
He said this was why strengthening border security capacities alongside the OCO was an import aspect of battling the illicit drug trade.
“One of the most pressing concerns facing our region is the growing reach of illicit drugs. The Pacific is no longer simply a transit corridor,” he said.
“We are increasingly becoming destinations. This shift carries serious implications for our communities, our economies, and our future. For our nations, the cost is not only economic, but it is also social and generational.
“Every resource diverted to addressing these threats is one less investment in education, infrastructure, and opportunity for our people.
“In this context, the Oceania Customs Organisation remains indispensable.”
He said through the OCO, member countries were working together to focus on several critical areas including enhancing inter-agency collaboration and align with global standards to ensure effective enforcement.
World Customs Organisation deputy secretary general Ricardo Trevino Chapa said the WCO was looking forward to the outcomes of the meeting, especially in a region that balancing the importance of fair trade and border protection.
“In the current strategic plan for the period 2025 to 2028, the WCO has proposed to keep its work,” he said.
“Not only in developing standards, but also in implementation support, namely capacity building so that these standards of the WCO are worldwide implemented and we contribute to the objective of harmonising trade around the globe.”
Minister for Finance, Commerce and Business Development, Esrom Immanuel pictured with participants during the 28th Oceania Customs Organisation (OCO) Annual Conference at Natadola. Picture: FIJI REVENUE AND CUSTOMS SERVICE
