Frontline officers of the Fiji Revenue and Customs Service (FRCS) have strengthened their capabilities in identifying illicit drug manufacturing activities following a specialized Clan Lab Awareness training programme delivered by New Zealand Customs Service, in partnership with the New Zealand Police and supported by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade (MFAT).

The initiative forms part of ongoing regional cooperation to combat transnational organized crime, particularly the growing threat of methamphetamine production and trafficking across the Pacific.

Designed specifically for frontline border personnel, the awareness sessions focused on equipping officers with the knowledge and practical skills needed to detect indicators of clandestine laboratories (“clan labs”) and related criminal activity. The training highlighted how seemingly ordinary environments, such as warehouse facilities inspected during routine cargo examinations, could potentially be used for illicit drug production.

Participants were guided through the identification of everyday items and imported goods that may be associated with the manufacture of methamphetamine. This included recognizing chemicals, equipment, and materials that, while legitimate in isolation, could signal suspicious activity when found in certain combinations or quantities.

The sessions also explored the various pathways through which illicit substances and precursor materials are smuggled into the country. Officers received targeted insights into risks across cargo shipments, mail streams, unaccompanied baggage, freight consignments, and passenger movements. A key component of the training examined concealment techniques used by criminal networks, with real-life examples demonstrating how methamphetamine can be hidden in unconventional ways.

Visual case studies formed an important part of the programme, including examples from New Zealand. Officers reviewed images and scenarios involving substances concealed in picture frames, impregnated fabrics, and other atypical items. These practical illustrations were aimed at sharpening officers’ ability to identify anomalies and apply risk-based judgement during inspections.

Delivered through interactive presentations and supported by a question-and-answer session, the workshop provided an engaging and informative platform for knowledge exchange. The content underscored the importance of vigilance and informed decision-making at the border, particularly as drug trafficking methods continue to evolve.

The Clan Lab Awareness workshop was conducted at the request of Fiji, reflecting the country’s proactive approach to strengthening border protection measures. It also builds on the strong and longstanding partnership between New Zealand Customs and FRCS. In recent years, this collaboration has included capacity-building initiatives such as intelligence-gathering workshops and the Pacific Leadership Programme delivered in both Nadi and Suva.

New Zealand Customs reaffirmed its commitment to supporting FRCS and acknowledged the value of the close working relationship between the two agencies. Through continued cooperation and shared expertise, both countries aim to enhance regional resilience against organised crime and safeguard the Pacific’s borders.

FRCS expressed its sincere appreciation to New Zealand Customs, the New Zealand Police, and the Government of New Zealand for their continued support and partnership. FRCS acknowledged the significant value of not only the Clan Lab Awareness initiative, but also the broader range of capacity-building programmes delivered in recent years, which have played a critical role in strengthening Fiji’s border security capabilities and advancing regional collaboration.

FRCS was proud to participate as one of the key service delivery agencies in the Naitasiri Community Outreach Program, led by the Fiji National Provident Fund (FNPF). This initiative underscored a shared commitment to extending essential services to rural and remote communities, ensuring inclusivity and accessibility for all Fijians.

As part of this outreach, FRCS conducted a series of Talanoa sessions across five villages including Nasava, Nasauvere, Tubarua, Matawailevu, and Korovou and providing vital services while fostering greater awareness and understanding of taxation and business obligations. Notably, this engagement represents a significant milestone for FRCS, marking the first time services have been delivered in the interior regions of Naitasiri, reaching communities that have traditionally had limited access due to geographical constraints.

Services Provided:

• Taxpayer Identification Number (TIN) registrations

• Guidance on New Dwelling House (NDH) refund requirements

• Assistance with business registration inquiries

• Support for online tax return filing

• General taxation advice and information

Key Advisory to Business Owners:

• Register their businesses with the Registrar of Companies (RoC)

• Complete registration with FRCS

• Maintain accurate records to support online tax filing.

• Understand requirements related to TIN and NDH refunds.

The village halls in the five villages served as central venues, ensuring accessibility and convenience for participants from surrounding areas.

Despite the logistical challenges, including multiple river crossings on foot to access interior villages without formal road networks, the team remained committed to delivering services to these communities. The outreach also highlighted the need for improved internet connectivity to support systems such as TPOS.

Additionally, community members were guided on the importance of safeguarding their joint cards, noting that replacement fees are now set at $20. Clarifications were also provided to address common misunderstandings, particularly for sole traders, emphasizing that registration with the RoC is only the initial step and must be followed by FRCS registration and the submission of tax returns, regardless of whether income falls below the $30,000 threshold.

Overall, the outreach program reflects FRCS’s ongoing dedication to bridging service gaps and empowering communities through direct engagement, education, and accessible service delivery in even the most remote parts of Fiji.

FRCS extends its sincere appreciation to its valued partners, whose collaboration has been instrumental in supporting our initiatives. We acknowledge the FNPF, Ministry of iTaukei Affairs (Vola ni Kawa Bula), the Ministry of Justice (Births, Deaths and Marriages), HFC Bank, the Naitasiri Provincial Council, and Naitasiri Community Policing for their continued partnership and commitment. Their collective efforts have greatly contributed to the successful delivery of services and strengthened engagement within the community.

Customs administrations from 21 Pacific countries have jointly adopted a communiqué pledging strengthened, coordinated efforts to combat transnational crime operating across regional borders. This commitment was formalized at the close of the 28th Oceania Customs Organisation (OCO) Annual Conference, held from 2 – 4 June 2026 at the InterContinental Fiji Golf Resort and Spa in Natadola.

Convened by the FRCS, the conference brought together Heads of Customs and appointed delegates representing 21 Pacific Island countries and territories. The forum served as an important opportunity to reinforce collective approaches to border protection, enhance cooperation in trade facilitation, and advance ongoing customs modernisation initiatives across the region.

In reaffirming Fiji’s strong commitment to the OCO and shared regional priorities, FRCS Chief Executive Officer and outgoing OCO Chair, Mr. Udit Singh, highlighted Fiji’s leadership role during its tenure. “As Chair of the OCO, Fiji has sought to lead by example by championing regional training initiatives, leadership development, and Customs modernisation,” Mr. Singh stated. “We recognise that our collective strength is determined by the capacity of each member administration. Hosting this conference reflects Fiji’s continued commitment to partnership, cooperation, and shared progress across the Pacific.”

Mr. Singh emphasised that Pacific Customs administrations are united by a clear and forward-looking vision. He underscored the importance of strengthening regional partnerships, enhancing intelligence-sharing frameworks, and expanding capacity-building initiatives for customs officers across the region. He also called for accelerated adoption of advanced technologies and modern border management systems to improve operational efficiency and effectiveness. “Above all, we must emerge with a unified Pacific Customs voice, one that is strong, coordinated, and influential on both regional and global platforms,” he added. “The challenges before us are significant, but so too are the opportunities. By working together, we can build a safer Pacific, foster a more secure and efficient trading environment, and develop stronger, more resilient economies for our people.

Reflecting on the conference proceedings, Mr. Singh noted that participants engaged in an intensive and highly productive programme of dialogue and collaboration. Discussions were marked by a high level of engagement and knowledge exchange among member administrations and development partners.

“The depth and quality of deliberations have been commendable,” he said. “These exchanges have provided valuable insights into the evolving landscape of customs administration, border security, and trade facilitation across Oceania. Importantly, they have enabled us to collectively assess emerging challenges, identify shared priorities, and shape a more coordinated, forward-looking approach to regional cooperation.

Mr. Singh also extended his congratulations to the newly appointed OCO leadership, welcoming Mr. Tekaie Ititaake, Comptroller of Customs for Kiribati, as the incoming Chair, and Mr. Jose Mafnas of the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands as Vice Chair. The successful hosting of the 28th OCO Conference by the FRCS has been widely acknowledged as a significant achievement, reinforcing Fiji’s leadership role and commitment to advancing regional customs cooperation and security.

Day Two of the 28th OCO Annual Conference brought together 60+ delegates from across the Pacific and beyond for an open session on strengthening Customs’ commitment to our Pasifika communities.

Delegates shared key updates, priorities, and opportunities for greater regional collaboration, while partners highlighted the vital role of Customs in maritime security, trade transparency, and tackling organized crime.

A key takeaway: the need for a stronger, intelligence-led and coordinated regional approach — with OCO members united through cooperation, knowledge sharing, and capacity building to protect our people, economies, and the future of our Blue Pacific.

Delegates and partners have officially arrived for the 28th Oceania Customs Organisation (OCO) Annual Conference, and everything is set for day one! Leaders from Customs agencies across 24 Pacific countries are in Fiji from 2–4 June 2026 for this key gathering.

The event brings together Heads of Customs, senior government officials, development partners, and international organisations, all coming together to share ideas and strengthen efforts to keep communities safe, secure borders, boost trade, and support sustainable growth across the Pacific.

Fiji is hosting the conference in its role as OCO Chair, with this year’s theme focused on “Scaling Up the Commitment of Customs to Protect and Grow our Pasifika Communities.”

FRCS hosted a Board of Management (BOM) meeting in Suva, chaired by the Commissioner of Police (COMPOL), Mr. Rusiate Tudravu. Also present at the meeting were the CEO of FRCS, the Acting Director of Immigration, senior officials from Police, Immigration, and FRCS, along with representatives from the Australian Federal Police (AFP).

The meeting focused on discussions around the review of the Memoranda of Understanding (MOUs), Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs), Joint SOPs, and Terms of Reference. These deliberations form part of a broader effort to revamp the BOM platform, ensuring stronger governance, clearer coordination, and more effective collaboration across agencies.

The engagement highlighted Fiji’s recognition that modern border management requires not only operational capacity but also robust frameworks for intelligence sharing, joint enforcement, and accountability. The participation of the AFP underscored the importance of international partnerships in tackling organized crime, drug trafficking, money laundering, and cyber-enabled threats.

By focusing on the review and modernization of these foundational instruments, Fiji is reinforcing its commitment to proactive, intelligence-led border security. The BOM meeting demonstrated the collective resolve of national and international agencies to safeguard Fiji’s borders, enhance regional stability, and contribute meaningfully to global security efforts.

FRCS Executive Leadership Team (ELT) presented its 2023–2024 Annual Report to the Standing Committee on Economic Affairs, highlighting a year of significant achievement and strategic progress.

Chief Executive Officer, Mr. Udit Singh, described the 2023–2024 financial year as a milestone for FRCS, with the organisation delivering a record $3.1 billion in revenue, an exceptional growth of 35.8 percent. This marked the first time FRCS surpassed the $3 billion revenue benchmark, reflecting strong national economic recovery.

Mr. Singh noted that this performance was driven by a broad-based rebound in tourism consumption and trade, alongside a growing contribution from Value Added Tax (VAT), which accounted for approximately 44 percent of total revenue. He also emphasised FRCS’s continued shift toward data-driven compliance, supported by enhanced digital systems such as the Taxpayer Online Service (TPOS).

“These results demonstrate a strong rebound and an evolving revenue structure that reflects consumption-led growth,” Mr. Singh said. “They also highlight the importance of strengthening compliance systems and operational capabilities to sustain long-term performance.”

He acknowledged that the year also brought valuable insights into areas requiring further enhancement, including the management of refund liabilities, system capacity during digital transitions, and risks associated with informal sector activities and illicit trade. These insights have informed FRCS’s strategic priorities moving forward.

Mr. Singh informed the Committee that in the 2024–2025 fiscal year, FRCS has made targeted progress in addressing these areas. Revenue increased further to $3.48 billion, with growth moderating to a sustainable 12.3 percent. Strategic compliance initiatives have delivered measurable outcomes, including the identification of $45 million in tax liabilities, with approximately $30 million already collected.

The Tax Amnesty Programme also achieved strong results, generating $75 million in collections and facilitating the filing of over 40,000 tax returns. In parallel, FRCS has made substantial progress in reducing refund backlogs, stabilising digital systems, and strengthening both service delivery and enforcement capabilities.

“In summary, FRCS is transitioning from a recovery-driven phase to a more stable, compliance-led and digitally enabled revenue system,” Mr. Singh stated. “Our focus remains on building resilience and addressing structural risks identified during the 2023–2024 financial year.”

Mr. Singh highlighted that FRCS is making strategic investments in the development of a Single Window System, an integrated digital platform that will allow traders to submit all import, export, and regulatory documentation through a single entry point. This initiative is expected to streamline and standardise border processes, improve efficiency and turnaround times, strengthen inter-agency coordination, and reduce compliance costs for businesses. Importantly, it will enhance transparency and enable data-driven decision-making, significantly strengthening risk management capabilities to better detect and deter illicit trade. In the context of evolving border security challenges, this system will play a critical role in safeguarding Fiji’s borders while facilitating legitimate trade in a more secure and controlled environment.

He further noted that the implementation of the FRCS Yacht Management System has already improved the management of yacht arrivals and departures through a streamlined digital platform. The system simplifies clearance processes, enhances service delivery, and reduces administrative burdens for both officers and stakeholders. At the same time, it strengthens monitoring and compliance by providing greater visibility over vessel movements, thereby contributing to stronger border control, and supporting Fiji’s overall maritime security framework.

Deputy Chair of the Standing Committee on Economic Affairs, Ms. Premila Kumar, commended FRCS for its performance, noting the positive feedback received from customers regarding service improvements. Ms. Kumar highlighted the impact of TPOS in enhancing accessibility and convenience for taxpayers and praised FRCS as a benchmark for customer service across government agencies.

“We have started using FRCS as a benchmark when assessing improvements in customer service within government departments. This is a commendable achievement,” she said. She also congratulated FRCS on its role in supporting Fiji’s removal from the European Union (EU) blacklist, recognising this as a significant milestone for the nation.

FRCS successfully hosted the Tax Agents Forum in Nadi recently, bringing together registered Tax Agents, senior FRCS leadership, and members of the Tax Agents Board for a constructive and forward-looking dialogue on Fiji’s tax administration landscape.

This forum marked the first occasion on which the Tax Agents Forum was convened with the participation of the Tax Agents Board, underscoring a shared commitment to strengthened collaboration, transparency, and continuous improvement within the tax profession.

The Chief Executive Officer of FRCS and Chairman of the Tax Agents Board, Mr. Udit Singh outlined the evolving role of Tax Agents and shared perspectives on the future direction of tax agency services in Fiji.

Participants also benefited from:

• Industry insights on addressing operational challenges faced by Tax Agents.

• A strategic update from FRCS on the modernisation of taxation services and enhancements to service delivery.

• A compliance-focused overview highlighting shared responsibilities and practical outcomes.

• An open question-and-answer session and technical discussion, facilitating meaningful engagement and the exchange of views between Tax Agents and FRCS officials.

FRCS extends its sincere appreciation to all speakers, members of the Tax Agents Board, and participating Tax Agents, both in person and online, for their valuable contributions and active engagement.

FRCS also looks forward to building on the outcomes of these discussions as it continues to work collaboratively with Tax Agents towards seamless compliance and a stronger, more efficient tax system for Fiji.