18/06/2026
Pacific Customs Leaders Unite to Strengthen Regional Border Security and Cooperation
Customs administrations from 21 Pacific countries have jointly adopted a communiqué pledging strengthened, coordinated efforts to combat transnational crime operating across regional borders. This commitment was formalized at the close of the 28th Oceania Customs Organisation (OCO) Annual Conference, held from 2–4 June 2026 at the InterContinental Fiji Golf Resort and Spa in Natadola.
Convened by the Fiji Revenue and Customs Service (FRCS), the conference brought together Heads of Customs and appointed delegates representing 21 Pacific Island countries and territories. The forum served as an important opportunity to reinforce collective approaches to border protection, enhance cooperation in trade facilitation, and advance ongoing customs modernisation initiatives across the region.
In reaffirming Fiji’s strong commitment to the OCO and shared regional priorities, FRCS Chief Executive Officer and outgoing OCO Chair, Mr. Udit Singh, highlighted Fiji’s leadership role during its tenure. “As Chair of the OCO, Fiji has sought to lead by example by championing regional training initiatives, leadership development, and Customs modernisation,” Mr. Singh stated. “We recognise that our collective strength is determined by the capacity of each member administration. Hosting this conference reflects Fiji’s continued commitment to partnership, cooperation, and shared progress across the Pacific.”
Mr. Singh emphasised that Pacific Customs administrations are united by a clear and forward-looking vision. He underscored the importance of strengthening regional partnerships, enhancing intelligence-sharing frameworks, and expanding capacity-building initiatives for customs officers across the region. He also called for accelerated adoption of advanced technologies and modern border management systems to improve operational efficiency and effectiveness. “Above all, we must emerge with a unified Pacific Customs voice, one that is strong, coordinated, and influential on both regional and global platforms,” he added. “The challenges before us are significant, but so too are the opportunities. By working together, we can build a safer Pacific, foster a more secure and efficient trading environment, and develop stronger, more resilient economies for our people.
Reflecting on the conference proceedings, Mr. Singh noted that participants engaged in an intensive and highly productive programme of dialogue and collaboration. Discussions were marked by a high level of engagement and knowledge exchange among member administrations and development partners. “The depth and quality of deliberations have been commendable,” he said. “These exchanges have provided valuable insights into the evolving landscape of customs administration, border security, and trade facilitation across Oceania. Importantly, they have enabled us to collectively assess emerging challenges, identify shared priorities, and shape a more coordinated, forward-looking approach to regional cooperation.
Mr. Singh also extended his congratulations to the newly appointed OCO leadership, welcoming Mr. Tekaie Ititaake, Comptroller of Customs for Kiribati, as the incoming Chair, and Mr. Jose Mafnas of the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands as Vice Chair. The successful hosting of the 28th OCO Conference by the FRCS has been widely acknowledged as a significant achievement, reinforcing Fiji’s leadership role and commitment to advancing regional customs cooperation and security.
