The Fiji Revenue and Customs Service (FRCS) and the Australian Border Force (ABF) have unveiled a new Joint Work Program aimed at enhancing collaboration on border security. The program, covering the period of 2024-2025, was officially signed by ABF Deputy Commissioner Tim Fitzgerald and FRCS Chief Executive Officer Udit Singh in Suva, coinciding with the first anniversary of the ABF’s presence in Fiji. This initiative is part of the Fiji-Australia Vuvale Partnership.
According to FRCS, the ABF has deployed two officers to Fiji as part of its Pacific Network over the past year, resulting in close collaboration with local border agencies and the Oceania Customs Organisation. This collaboration has included conducting workshops, training sessions, and joint operations, significantly improving Fiji’s capacity to handle emerging border risks across maritime, aviation, and cargo sectors.
A major goal of this partnership is to combat revenue leakage while promoting legitimate trade and travel, which aligns with FRCS’s Gold Card initiative focused on encouraging compliant trade practices. Additionally, the ABF has coordinated visits to Australia for FRCS officials, offering them practical insights into Australia’s border management practices, such as operations with the maritime border command and container examination facilities.
The new Joint Work Program aims to reinforce these ongoing initiatives by enhancing capabilities in maritime security, intelligence, targeting operations, and improving screening processes for containers, cargo, and mail.
ABF Superintendent Uriah Turner emphasized that while significant progress has been made, further efforts are needed to address border security vulnerabilities effectively. Singh expressed gratitude for the support from the Australian Government and ABF, which has been pivotal in advancing Fiji’s border management and security measures. He noted that this formalized partnership will bolster FRCS’s strategic goals of safeguarding borders from illicit activities while facilitating legitimate trade and travel.