The Fiji Revenue and Customs Service (FRCS) has seized a quantity of undeclared cigarettes during a scheduled inspection at a commercial site in Vatukoula, raising fresh concerns about attempts to smuggle high-revenue goods into the country.
The interception was made after Customs officers uncovered a consignment that included industrial components, consumer products, and a significant amount of cigarettes that were not declared in official import documents. FRCS confirmed the breach falls under Section 137(a) of the Customs Act, which prohibits the importation of dutiable goods without proper declaration.
Cigarettes are among the most strictly monitored products due to high duty rates, and FRCS says undeclared tobacco imports directly undermine government revenue collection.
In a statement, FRCS said such cases contribute to “serious revenue leakage” and disadvantage legitimate traders who comply with the law.
FRCS Chief Executive Officer Udit Singh emphasised the seriousness of the offence.
“The unlawful importation of cigarettes not only deprives the nation of essential funds needed for development but also disadvantages compliant businesses and individuals. We remain resolute in our enforcement efforts across all entry points,” Mr Singh said.
FRCS is urging importers, shipping agents, and travellers to make full and accurate declarations, warning that failure to do so may lead to penalties or prosecution.
