FRCS seizes 57,740 undeclared cigarettes at Ports

The Fiji Revenue and Customs Service (FRCS) has intercepted more than 57,000 undeclared cigarette sticks during the last financial year, exposing yet another smuggling attempt by seafarers arriving at Fiji’s ports.

Cigarettes are classified as highly dutiable goods and are often smuggled to evade lawful payment of import duties. FRCS said such practices result in revenue leakage, undermining vital government income that sustains national development.

FRCS enforcement officers have vowed to remain steadfast in detecting, intercepting, and preventing illegal activities to protect government revenue and ensure compliance with customs laws.

The agency has urged all travellers, seafarers, and shipping agents to make honest and accurate declarations upon arrival. It warned that non-compliance will lead to penalties and legal action.

FRCS Chief Executive Officer Udit Singh said the interception highlights the agency’s critical role in border protection.

“This interception is another reminder of the crucial role FRCS plays in protecting Fiji’s borders and safeguarding government revenue. Smuggling not only deprives the nation of much-needed funds for development, but also undermines fairness for compliant taxpayers and businesses. We remain fully committed to enforcing our laws and will continue to adopt stronger measures to ensure integrity and compliance across all ports of entry.”

FRCS confirmed it will continue strengthening border control measures to safeguard revenue and support sustainable growth and development.