The recently introduced e-clearance import delivery process, which is expected to be fully introduced by the end of August, would ease payments of import and export container/cargo handling charges.

Current platform
In the interim, the import delivery process is managed through an email platform in partnership with Shipping Agents and Biosecurity Authority of Fiji.

Fiji Ports Terminal Limited also collaborated in this new digital move to minimize customers visiting the ports because of COVID safety measures.

Safety measure
Head of corporate services Salesh Kumar said the exchange of physical documents at the port which poses a risk of spreading the virus, led to the initiation of the collaboration.

“The payments will be made to the respective Shipping Agents.”

“Currently, the system is being developed and is expected to be introduced by the end of August 2021.”

“In the interim, the import delivery process is managed through an email platform in partnership with Shipping Agents and Biosecurity Authority of Fiji,” said Mr Kumar.

Both Suva and Lautoka Ports have have commenced the e-clearance import delivery process from 12 July 20, 2021 and is part of an ongoing development.

Mr Kumar said all Port charges are Fijian Competition & Consumer Commission regulated.

“However once the portal is introduced, there will be an Annual User License fee charged to the respective Shipping Agents.”

“Basically, the customers and shipping agents are not required to visit ports for import container clearance purposes.’

Payment Platform
He said the payments will be facilitated by the respective Shipping Agents and this portal will only streamline the import delivery clearance process.

“Also, we have done a thorough risks assessment and appropriate security measures/audit will be included,” said Mr Kumar.

Shipping Services (Fiji) Limited managing director Bernard Hong- Tiy said all shipping agents will be participating in the new e-clearance process.

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