YACHT agents operating in Fiji will be required to obtain a customs licence from August 1 under new measures introduced in the 2026/2027 National Budget. The Fiji Revenue and Customs Service (FRCS) warns that unlicensed operators can face substantial fines or imprisonment.
The new requirement applies to any individual, or entity authorised to act on behalf of a yacht owner or master.
Under the amended Section 148 of the Customs Act, all yacht agents must hold a valid Yacht Agent Licence issued by Customs before undertaking agency services.
FRCS chief executive officer, Udit Singh in a statement said the licensing regime would establish clear standards for yacht agents operating in Fiji.
“Any individual or entity carrying out the business of a yacht agent must obtain a valid Yacht Agent Licence issued by Customs,” Mr Singh said.
Licensed yacht agents will be authorised to sign customs documents on behalf of yacht owners or masters where permitted under customs laws, and to prepare and submit all required documentation, including vessel declarations, crew manifests, passenger manifests and other prescribed forms.
However, Mr Singh stressed that the licence applies only to yacht agency services.
“A Yacht Agent Licence authorises the holder to undertake agency services exclusively for yachts. It does not permit the licence holder to act as an agent for cargo vessels, cruise ships, tankers or any other class of vessel,” he said.
The licence will cost $5000 plus VAT and will be valid for three years following approval by the Customs Licensing Committee.
FRCS said all licensed yacht agents must comply fully with the amended licensing requirements and standards.
Mr Singh also warned that operating without the required licence is an offence under the Customs Act.
“Conducting restricted agency business without the appropriate licence constitutes an offence under the Customs Act,” he said.
The agency said unauthorised operators may face enforcement action, including significant penalties. For example, unauthorised cargo agency operations may attract fines of up to $25,000, imprisonment for up to 10 years, or both.
FRCS has urged prospective yacht agents to submit licence applications through the appropriate Customs channels and in accordance with established procedures to avoid regulatory action.
