The Fiji Revenue and Customs Service (FRCS) Maritime Seaport Enforcement Team made a significant breakthrough in combating smuggling by intercepting 57,740 undeclared cigarette sticks during the last financial year.
Classified as highly dutiable goods, cigarettes are frequently smuggled by seafarers arriving at Fiji’s ports, posing a serious threat to government revenue.
Undeclared goods, such as these cigarettes, lead to revenue leakage when importers intentionally evade lawful import duties.
“This interception is another reminder of the crucial role FRCS plays in protecting Fiji’s borders and safeguarding government revenue,” said FRCS Chief Executive Officer, Udit Singh.
“Smuggling not only deprives the nation of much-needed funds for development but also undermines fairness for compliant taxpayers and businesses.”
“We remain fully committed to enforcing our laws and will continue to adopt stronger measures to ensure integrity and compliance across all ports of entry.”
FRCS has issued a strong reminder to all travellers, seafarers, and shipping agents to provide honest and accurate declarations of goods upon arrival.
