FRCS Hosts 4th National Trade Facilitation Committee Meeting to Advance Fiji’s Trade Reforms

The Fiji Revenue and Customs Service (FRCS) successfully hosted the fourth meeting of the National Trade Facilitation Committee (NTFC) at its headquarters in Suva this week, reaffirming Fiji’s drive toward a more modern, efficient, and predictable trading environment.

Established in 2017 under Article 23.2 of the World Trade Organization (WTO) Trade Facilitation Agreement (TFA), the NTFC brings together government agencies and private-sector partners to coordinate and implement reforms that simplify cross-border trade. The Committee is co-chaired by FRCS and the Customs Brokers and Freight Forwarders Association — a structure that ensures national reforms are shaped through genuine public-private collaboration.

FRCS Chief Executive Officer, Mr. Udit Singh, highlighted the importance of Fiji’s commitment to the TFA, describing it as a foundation for reducing trade costs and strengthening transparency.

“The TFA focuses on simplifying, modernizing, and harmonizing export and import procedures. For Fiji, this translates to reduced red tape, faster clearance times, and improved predictability. These are benefits that directly support our business community, especially MSMEs,” Mr. Singh said.

He noted that coordinated border management, risk-based controls, and digital transformation — including the National Trade Portal and the upcoming National Single Window — are central to Fiji’s reform efforts. These initiatives enhance transparency and consistency, ultimately boosting investor confidence and improving Fiji’s competitiveness in regional and global markets.

Mr. Singh further emphasized that the NTFC’s work is aligned with Fiji’s National Development Plan, which prioritizes streamlined and modernized trade processes.

“Whether through digitalization, process re-engineering, or better inter-agency coordination, our reforms are guided by national priorities and the needs of our private-sector partners,” he added.

The NTFC also contributes to the regional Trade Facilitation Strategy endorsed by Pacific Island Leaders, underscoring that efficient and transparent trade processes are essential for regional resilience, cooperation, and economic growth. Fiji’s progress, therefore, carries benefits beyond national borders.

Recognizing the vital role of private-sector engagement, Mr. Singh reaffirmed that trade facilitation is a shared responsibility.

“Real transformation happens when government and industry work hand in hand. Our co-chairmanship model is proof that Fiji’s trade reform agenda is being driven collaboratively, inclusively, and with a shared sense of purpose,” he concluded.

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Last Updated - February 4, 2026