Commercial importers are businesses operating in Fiji or abroad, importing goods for sale or commercial use in the local market. To ensure the smooth release of goods from Customs control, commercial importers must adhere to the following requirements:
Customs Requirements for Clearance of Imported Goods
- Customs Entry (SAD): A Customs entry is mandatory.
- Accuracy: Ensure all Customs entries are accurate and correct. Monetary penalties may apply for errors or omissions.
- Payment: Settle all Customs charges.
- Record Keeping: Maintain all commercial documents for seven years and produce them to Customs when required.
- Compliance: Adhere to all FRCS legislative requirements.
Making a Customs Entry
Importers can complete the Customs documentation themselves or use the services of a Customs Broker or Agent.
Using a Customs Broker or Agent
When using a Customs Broker or Agent, any declarations or actions they undertake are made by the importer. Importers may be liable for any penalties or additional duties incurred by the Broker or Agent. For a list of approved Customs Brokers for Suva, Lautoka, and Nadi Ports, click here.
Government Ministries & Departments
For customs clearance, delivery, logistics, warehousing, and advice, Government Ministries and Departments should contact the Fiji Procurement Office. They can arrange for the pre-release of consignments in emergencies.
Contact:
- Email: FPO_LOGISTIC_SUVA@govnet.gov.fj
- Phone: (679) 3307011 | (679) 9977831
Lodging a Customs Clearance
Import entries (SAD) and other clearances are legal declarations under the Customs Act, detailing imported shipments. Errors or omissions can lead to penalties or prosecution. If unsure about tariff classification, Customs valuation, or permit requirements, it is advisable to engage a Customs broker or contact the Customs Service at your port of entry.
Lodgement
All entries (SAD) are processed through the ASYCUDA World (AW) System. Assistance from your agent or Customs may be required for preparing your customs clearance document.
Administrative Penalties
Errors or omissions on import entries can result in incorrect duty payments and import data. Customs can impose monetary penalties on the maker (agent/importer) of entries with errors or omissions. Penalties apply for noncompliance or breaches under various customs acts and regulations.
Customs Controlled Areas
Customs-controlled licensed areas for temporary holding, storage, and examination of imported goods include:
- Container Freight Stations (CFS)
- Air Freight Stations (AFS)
- Inland Freight Stations (IFS)
- Sea Ports (Suva, Lautoka, Savusavu, Oinafa Bay Rotuma, and Levuka)
- Airports (Nadi and Nausori)
- Bonded Warehouses (private and general)
- Other approved places under Section 10 of the Customs Act
Types of Import Entries
Imported goods must be classified for Customs purposes. Entry types include:
- IM4: Entry for Home Consumption
- IM5: Import of Privilege Goods
- LG5: Leased Goods
- IM6: Goods Re-imported
- IM7: Entry for Warehousing
- TR8: Transshipment
- BA4: BOL/AWB/Baggage Assessment
Temporary Imports
Temporary imports or privilege goods include:
- Goods for display or use at exhibitions, fairs, meetings, or similar events
- Goods for alteration or repair
- Goods imported by bona fide tourists for personal use in Fiji
- Goods for specific projects or occasions
- Specialized goods covered by international conventions on temporary importation
- Traveller’s samples
Refer to Regulation 97(1) and (2) of the Customs Regulations 1986 for more details.
Application to Import Privilege Goods
To import privileged goods, apply in writing using Form C. 21 to the proper officer at the port of importation, along with a application fee.
Valuation of Goods
Customs uses the World Trade Organisation (WTO) or General Agreement on Tariffs and Trade (GATT) Valuation Agreement, meaning the Customs value of imported goods is the transaction value, i.e., the price paid or payable for the goods when sold for export to Fiji, adjusted according to Clause 3 of the Customs Tariff Act. Access the Valuation Document here.
Last Updated - July 28, 2025