The Fijian Government in conjunction with the Biosecurity Authority of Fiji is reviewing the fees and charges under the regulation to directly address the ease of doing business for services provided by BAF.
This was announced by the Minister for Economy Aiyaz Sayed-Khaiyum during the national budget address last week Friday.
He said a change for the Rapid Risk Analysis of Pathways (RAP) had been introduced to improve the timeline of market access by the importer.
“New products from existing pathways will be easy to import through the introduction of RAP,” said Mr Sayed-Khaiyum.
He added RAP would cost significantly less than other input risk analysis, as it would take only one or two months to complete.
“It’s very interesting that the Biosecurity Act will also be able to recognise vessel or aircraft clearance agents.
“This will make the agents more comfortable.
“Secondly, it will require the new regulation under the Act will be made with consultation with stakeholders.”
He also announced the Fruit Export and Marketing Act from 1906 would be revised to allow the Biosecurity Authority Fiji to issue a fruit exporters licence, as opposed to going through the older process.
Mr Sayed-Khaiyum also said they would be amending the general provisions for town planning schemes in areas to enable high density development, with particular emphasis on revising port ratio, reducing the setback for double storey buildings and minimum block size requirements.
“This will also allow developers to build on-site sewage systems,” he said.
