The Ministry of iTaukei Affairs, in partnership with the Ministry of Environment, is set to enhance the regulation of tabua exports and imports in Fiji. Starting from January 1, 2025, anyone wishing to take a tabua out of Fiji or bring one into the country must first secure an approval letter from the Ministry of iTaukei Affairs. Following this, they must obtain an export or import permit from the Ministry of Environment.
It is important to note that shipping tabua to the United States is prohibited, and consequently, the Ministry will not issue approval letters for such transactions. Furthermore, there will be a strict monthly quota of 16 tabua allowed for export, while there is no limit on imports; however, all individuals must fulfill necessary regulatory conditions, which include obtaining the proper permits from the country of origin and an import permit from Fiji’s Ministry of Environment.
Approval letters and permits will be granted on a first-come, first-served basis. To avoid complications with the quota, the public is encouraged to plan ahead, as last-minute requests can result in the quota being fully utilized. Compliance with the regulatory framework under the Customs Regulation and CITES Act is highly encouraged to support both national and international conservation initiatives.
This regulatory update represents a step towards ensuring the sustainability of tabua, which is an important cultural artifact in Fiji. By implementing a controlled system for the export and import of tabua, the government is emphasizing the importance of preserving cultural heritage while also adhering to environmental regulations. The move not only protects the natural resources but also promotes responsible international trade practices.
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