FRCS Suva Maritime Compliance Team successfully intercepted and detained 8,340 sticks of undeclared cigarettes from a foreign fishing vessel that arrived on Friday, 16 October 2026.

The interception was made possible through targeted risk profiling, intelligence shared by our counterpart agencies, and the vigilance of Customs officers applying effective search techniques. The officers’ alertness and thorough searches helped uncover sophisticated concealment methods, with the cigarettes hidden in difficult-to-access areas of the vessel to evade detection.

The undeclared cigarettes were valued at $65,230, representing potential government revenue loss and a risk to Fiji’s border security.

With the assistance of Fiji Detector Dogs Unit and through close collaboration with our key partners, FRCS continues to strengthen maritime enforcement, detect illicit goods and safeguard Fiji’s borders.

This successful operation highlights the importance of intelligence sharing, effective risk management, vigilant officers, thorough search techniques and strong inter-agency cooperation in protecting our maritime borders.

FRCS remains committed to protecting government revenue, combating smuggling and securing Fiji’s borders.

FRCS proudly congratulates eight of its senior women leaders who were among 26 accomplished women to successfully complete the Fiji Senior Executive Women in Leadership Programme (FSEWLP), delivered by the Fiji Institute of Chartered Accountants (FICA) at the Grand Pacific Hotel in Suva.

Conducted over four intensive days across two weeks, the programme brought together senior women leaders from a wide range of professions, creating a unique platform for learning, collaboration, and personal growth. Participants were empowered to deepen their understanding of business operations, strengthen professional networks, refine their leadership styles, and enhance their professional brands in an increasingly dynamic and evolving business environment.

The programme provided a transformative journey of self-discovery and leadership development, equipping participants with practical tools, fresh perspectives, and valuable insights to help them lead with greater confidence, purpose, and impact.

Lead Facilitator Dr Nacanieli Rika and Co-Facilitator Ms Sainimili Saukuru expertly guided participants through engaging and interactive sessions, emphasizing the critical role of mentors, coaches, and sponsors in supporting career advancement and leadership success. Through meaningful discussions and collaborative activities, participants freely shared experiences, exchanged ideas, and gained new perspectives on effective leadership.

A key highlight of the programme was the opportunity for participants to engage with an inspiring lineup of accomplished women leaders who shared their personal leadership journeys and professional experiences. These guest speakers highlighted the importance of self-awareness, authenticity, resilience, and leading with purpose as essential qualities of successful leadership.

For the eight FRCS women leaders, the experience was both empowering and inspiring. They expressed their sincere appreciation to their supervisors and FRCS for investing in their professional development and providing opportunities to participate in initiatives that foster leadership excellence. Their achievement reflects FRCS’s continued commitment to empowering women, developing future leaders, and fostering a culture of excellence, inclusion, and professional growth.

FRCS recently conducted an awareness session for tax agents on the Statement of Tax Accounts (STA) as part of its ongoing Professional Development Programme.

The session provided participants with a comprehensive overview of the STA, including its key features, how to effectively interpret and read account statements, and the differences between the information accessible to taxpayers and that viewed by FRCS officers. The aim was to enhance tax agents’ understanding of the STA and support them in providing accurate and efficient services to their clients.

The session was highly interactive, with participants actively engaging in discussions and seeking clarification on various aspects of the STA. FRCS officers addressed questions and shared practical insights, helping to strengthen participants’ knowledge and confidence in navigating tax account information.

FRCS remains committed to building the capacity of tax professionals through regular awareness and training sessions, ensuring they are well-equipped with the latest information and tools to support tax compliance and service delivery across Fiji.

FRCS recently hosted an interactive awareness session on the Electronic Fiscal Device (EFD) for members of the Suva Retailers Association at the FRCS Headquarters in Nasese.

The session brought together retailers from across Suva to strengthen understanding of EFD requirements and support businesses in meeting their tax obligations with confidence. As key contributors to Fiji’s economy, retailers play an important role in promoting tax compliance and maintaining a transparent business environment.

Participants received comprehensive information on a range of EFD-related topics, including an overview of the Electronic Fiscal Device system, EFD Regulations, recent National Budget changes, compliance requirements, registration processes, and the various solutions available to businesses.

The session also featured a detailed presentation on the VAT Monitoring System, highlighting its role in enhancing transparency, improving compliance outcomes, and supporting efficient tax administration. Attendees gained valuable insights into how the system benefits both businesses and FRCS by streamlining reporting and record-keeping processes.

A key highlight of the programme was the lively question-and-answer session, where participants actively engaged with FRCS officers, seeking clarification on implementation requirements and practical aspects of compliance. The open discussions provided an opportunity for retailers to address concerns and better understand their obligations.

FRCS remains committed to working closely with the business community and providing the guidance and support needed to help taxpayers comply with their tax responsibilities. Through ongoing engagement and awareness initiatives, FRCS continues to foster strong partnerships with stakeholders and promote a culture of voluntary compliance across Fiji.

FRCS recently welcomed approximately 200 students from Years 4 and 7 of Suva Muslim Primary School to its Headquarters in Nasese, Suva, as part of the school’s educational excursion programme.

The visit provided students with a unique opportunity to gain firsthand insight into the important role FRCS plays in supporting Fiji’s growth and development. Through an engaging awareness presentation, students learned about the organisation’s core responsibilities, including revenue collection, border protection, trade facilitation, and its contribution to funding essential public services that benefit communities across the country.

As part of the programme, students toured various FRCS divisions, where staff showcased the day-to-day operations that support the nation’s tax and customs systems. The interactive sessions gave students a better understanding of the diverse career opportunities within FRCS and highlighted the dedication of employees who work behind the scenes to serve Fiji.

One of the highlights of the visit was a live demonstration by the FRCS Dog Unit. Students were fascinated by the highly trained detector dogs and learned how they assist in safeguarding Fiji’s borders by helping officers identify prohibited and undeclared goods.

FRCS officers actively engaged with the students throughout the visit, answering questions and sharing valuable knowledge about the organisation’s work. The excursion not only broadened the students’ understanding of government services but also encouraged them to appreciate the importance of integrity, responsibility, and public service.

FRCS remains committed to community engagement and educational outreach initiatives that help young people better understand the organisation’s role in nation-building while inspiring the next generation of Fiji’s future leaders.

The Fiji Revenue and Customs Service (FRCS) confirms that the captain of a yacht with a three-person crew voluntarily advised FRCS in writing that the Australian visitor concerned would not travel to its next overseas port of call. FRCS took this declaration into account when processing the yacht’s outward clearance.

Under section 72(1) of the Customs Act 1986, a vessel’s master must obtain clearance before departing Fiji for an overseas destination. Section 72(2)(b) and (c) require the master, owner or authorised agent to answer questions about the vessel, crew, passengers, and voyage, and provide the required vessel and passenger documentation. The departure documentation therefore needed to accurately reflect who would travel aboard the yacht.

The captain initially held the visitor’s passport. FRCS subsequently liaised with Immigration, and the passport has since been returned to him.

FRCS did not detain the visitor. FRCS understands that he holds a valid outbound ticket and is expected to leave Fiji by the end of October 2026.

FRCS remains committed to fulfilling its border protection responsibilities under the Customs Act and treating all visitors to Fiji’s ports with courtesy, respect and in accordance with the law.

FRCS has reinforced its strong partnership with tax professionals through the successful hosting of Tax Agents Forums in Nadi and Labasa, bringing together representatives from across the Western and Northern Divisions to discuss the future of tax administration, compliance, and professional development in Fiji.

The forums provided a valuable opportunity for open dialogue, collaboration, and the exchange of ideas between FRCS and members of the tax profession. Participants explored emerging priorities, regulatory developments, and initiatives aimed at strengthening Fiji’s tax system while supporting taxpayers and businesses.

Opening the sessions, Director Tax, Ms. Momina Beg, acknowledged the important contribution tax agents make in helping taxpayers meet their obligations and navigate an increasingly complex tax environment.

“Tax agents play a pivotal role in supporting compliance and bridging the gap between taxpayers and FRCS. Their expertise and professionalism contribute significantly to building confidence in the tax system and fostering a culture of voluntary compliance,” she said.

A key feature of the forums was the presentation of the Tax Agents Board (TAB) Draft Strategic Plan and Framework by FRCS Chief Executive Officer, Mr. Udit Singh. The proposed strategy outlines a forward-looking vision for the next three years, focusing on elevating professional standards, enhancing transparency, and strengthening the overall regulatory framework governing the tax agent profession in Fiji.

Mr. Singh highlighted the importance of ensuring that the profession continues to evolve alongside changing taxpayer needs, technological advancements, and stakeholder expectations.

“The strategic direction seeks to reinforce trust, accountability, and professionalism within the industry while ensuring tax agents are well-positioned to support taxpayers and contribute to a more effective tax administration system,” he said.

The forums also provided participants with an overview of FRCS’s key strategic priorities and recent tax policy measures introduced under the 2026/27 National Budget. Discussions focused on initiatives designed to improve service delivery, streamline processes, and make compliance easier for taxpayers.

Attendees actively participated throughout the sessions, contributing perspectives, raising questions, and sharing practical insights on opportunities to further strengthen collaboration between FRCS and the tax profession.

The positive engagement and strong attendance at both forums reflect the shared commitment of FRCS and tax agents to fostering a transparent, efficient, and trusted tax environment. Through ongoing consultation and partnership, FRCS continues to work closely with stakeholders to support a modern tax system that delivers benefits for taxpayers, businesses, and the wider Fijian community.

The Fiji Revenue and Customs Service (FRCS) Chief Executive Officer (CEO), Mr. Udit Singh, officially welcomed Ms. Satsuki Kondo, Regional Manager for Capacity Building in the Pacific Islands from Japan Customs, who will be based in Fiji under a Memorandum of Cooperation (MOC) signed between FRCS and Japan’s Customs and Tariff Bureau, Ministry of Finance.

This MOC will establish a framework to further enhance the technical cooperation between FRCS and Japan Customs. The technical cooperation aims to further strengthen the relationship between Fiji and Japan.

As the primary point of contact for technical cooperation matters, Ms. Kondo will work closely with FRCS to ensure capacity building support is more direct, sustained, and tailored to FRCS’s specific needs.

The appointment deepens the longstanding relationship between the two organisations and reflects Japan’s continued support for customs modernisation across the Pacific, building on broader engagement through the Pacific Islands Leaders Meeting (PALM) framework.

FRCS has welcomed the partnership as an opportunity to strengthen staff expertise, adopt international best practices, and further align its operations with global customs standards.