Taking Customs Information Directly to the Community Through Radio Outreach
As part of our ongoing public education and awareness campaign, FRCS continues to engage directly with communities through national radio platforms, providing timely and practical guidance on key Customs matters that affect everyday Fijians.
Recently, Chief Customs Officer Sharmila Sharma and Senior Customs Officer Jocelyn Permal appeared on FBC Radio’s Drishtikon talk-back programme, while Customs Officers Kemueli Tuiqali and Litia Dito Vacala featured on the iTaukei programme Domu-ni-Vanua. The discussions covered a range of important Customs-related topics, including concessions for gifts from family and friends overseas, online purchases, returning residents, import licence requirements for used motor vehicles, and approval processes for panel van modifications.
A key focus of the programmes was raising awareness of Concession Codes 212 and 212A, which are designed to support legitimate personal imports while ensuring compliance with Fiji’s Customs laws.
Concession Code 212A applies to genuine gifts sent by family members or friends residing overseas for personal use. Eligible goods may receive duty concessions, provided they meet the prescribed conditions. Importers may be required to provide supporting documentation, including identification and proof of value, to substantiate their claims. Customs officers assess eligibility through documentation checks and inspections. Any false declarations may result in duty reassessments, penalties, or other enforcement actions.
Concession Code 212 covers online purchases imported by private individuals for personal use. Consignments that fall within the approved value threshold may qualify for duty concessions, provided the goods are not intended for resale or commercial purposes. Importers are required to submit relevant invoices, proof of payment, and identification documents. As with all Customs declarations, providing false or misleading information may attract penalties.
The programmes also highlighted concessions available to returning residents. Individuals who have lived overseas for at least 12 months and are returning permanently to Fiji may qualify for duty concessions on personal effects, household goods, and, in certain circumstances, motor vehicles, subject to meeting all eligibility requirements.
In addition, listeners were reminded that all used motor vehicles require an import licence from FRCS prior to shipment and must comply with applicable age restrictions, safety requirements, and Euro 4 emission standards before they can be imported into Fiji.
The discussion further clarified that any modification of a panel van to include additional seating must receive prior approval from FRCS before approval can be sought from the Land Transport Authority (LTA).
FRCS remains committed to educating and empowering the public through accessible information channels and encourages members of the public seeking further assistance or clarification to contact FRCS on the toll-free number 1326 or via email at info@frcs.org.fj.
Last Updated - 13 hours ago