FRCS to Conduct National Time Release Study (TRS) at Nadi Airport

The Fiji Revenue and Customs Service (FRCS), with the support of the World Bank Group and the World Customs Organization (WCO), will be conducting a Time Release Study (TRS) to assess the efficiency of commercial cargo importation processes at Nadi International Airport.

The TRS is a globally recognized WCO tool designed to measure the actual time required for the release and clearance of goods from the moment of arrival until the physical release of cargo. This provides valuable insights into the efficiency of border procedures and highlights areas for improvement.

The study aims to identify bottlenecks and congestion in trade flow processes, enabling border agencies to take targeted measures that will enhance the effectiveness and efficiency of cargo clearance at Fiji’s borders. The TRS is referenced under Article 7.6 of the World Trade Organization (WTO) Trade Facilitation Agreement (TFA), which encourages members to measure and publish the average release time of goods. The last air cargo TRS at Nadi Airport was conducted in 2014.

Globally, TRS has become a key instrument for strategic planning and sequencing the implementation of WTO TFA measures in line with National Trade Facilitation Committees (NTFC). In recent years, the WCO and WTO, with support from the World Bank Group, have mobilized technical experts and resources to help countries streamline supply chains and adopt best practices for assessing, evaluating, and improving trade facilitation.

The 2025/2026 TRS will specifically focus on imported commercial cargoes and will commence in the second quarter of the financial year. The study will be undertaken in partnership with Air Terminal Services (ATS), the Biosecurity Authority of Fiji (BAF), and the Ministry of Health and Medical Services (MHMS).

FRCS CEO, Mr. Udit Singh said: that the TRS is not only about measuring time but it is about measuring progress.

“By identifying delays and inefficiencies, we can create smarter solutions that benefit traders, agencies, and the economy as a whole. This study reflects our commitment to transparency, accountability, and aligning Fiji with international best practices in trade facilitation,”Mr. Singh said.

This initiative reinforces Fiji’s commitment to strengthening border efficiency, improving trade facilitation, and supporting economic growth through streamlined processes.

Last Updated - February 4, 2026