The Fiji Revenue and Customs Service (FRCS) has issued a reminder to all ministries, tertiary institutions, statutory bodies, diplomatic missions and international organisations that all commercial goods brought into Fiji, whether hand carried or imported as cargo, must undergo formal customs clearance.
In a statement, FRCS said the requirement applies to all commercial items, including samples, promotional materials, demonstration equipment and project equipment.
“All commercial goods brought into Fiji are subject to formal customs clearance through a licensed customs agent,” FRCS said.
The revenue authority stressed that engaging a registered customs agent is mandatory to facilitate entry and ensure compliance with Fiji’s customs laws and procedures.
“For temporary importations or privileged goods, the designated customs agent must be notified in advance to liaise with FRCS, provide required documentation and coordinate clearance arrangements,” the statement said.
FRCS also highlighted the importance of pre-arrival coordination, advising delegates or personnel intending to hand-carry commercial goods to engage a customs agent before arriving in Fiji to avoid delays at the border.
To support timely processing, FRCS offers a three-day pre-advance processing window, allowing goods to be registered and clearance initiated prior to the delegation’s arrival.
“This supports timely processing and reduces the risk of border-related delays,” FRCS said.
On arrival, all commercial goods must be declared on the Passenger Arrival Card and presented at the Customs Secondary Checkpoint in the baggage clearance area for inspection.
“Failure to declare such goods may result in delays, seizure or detention pending formal clearance,” FRCS warned.
The authority added that where all documentation is properly lodged through a customs agent, clearance will be processed efficiently.
FRCS also reminded delegates to carry a detailed list of all commercial goods, including descriptions, quantities and estimated values, and where available, a copy of the Customs Entry or equivalent documentation to support valuation and record-keeping.
“FRCS trusts the above clarifies applicable customs procedures,” the statement said, adding that officers remain available to provide further guidance to ensure smooth and timely clearance for visiting delegations.
