MARAIA VULA
SUVA
The Biosecurity Authority of Fiji and the Fiji Revenue and Customs Authority have signed an agreement enabling information sharing and co-operation between the two agencies.
The memorandum of understanding was signed by BAF executive chairman, Xavier Riyaz Khan and FRCA chief executive, Jitoko Tikolevu, yesterday in Suva.
This would also allow them to better collaborate in enhancing border security and safety in Fiji.
Mr Khan said FRCA has always been a significant partner for BAF in border control.
He said even without an agreement in place, both organisations have been working closely together in sharing information and collaborating in various integrated activities.
“We have seen how BAF and FRCA have been collaborating together on the border in intercepting illegal and unregulated transactions and drug smuggling,” he said.
“The MOU will formalise the collaboration between the two agencies and help further enhance border protection in Fiji.”
Mr Tikolevu said under the MOU, FRCA will train Biosecurity officers on customs issues that are relevant to the effective implementation of this MOU.
“Upon request, FRCA will also submit all inward and outward documents like manifests, bill of lading, and waybill on goods that has a biosecurity interest or concern,” he said.
“These documents also include electronic documents that are required for the arrival and departure of foreign vessels, aircrafts, passengers and crew.
“A committee will also be formed to monitor the effective implementation of the MOU.”
Mr Khan said under the MOU, the two agencies will be able to share facilities, resources and common information as well as present a unified approach to compliance and enforcement of Biosecurity and FRCA laws.
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