Security measures ‘protect our economic activities’
Border patrol vital for seaports’ trade, tourism: Vosarogo
Border control agencies cannot work in silos; effective collaboration and coordination is necessary for identifying and addressing emerging threats promptly and comprehensively. Filimoni Vosarogo Minister for Lands and Mineral Resources
The importance of the country’s border control at Fiji’s seaports was is a vital component of tourism, which contributes towards 40 per cent of the nation’s gross domestic product (GDP).
Minister for Lands and Mineral Resources Filimoni Vosarogo spoke about this at the Seaport Border Control training at Tanoa International Hotel, Nadi last week.
The seaports play a critical role such as cargo handling, logistics, and distribution, industry, and maritime services, Mr Vosarogo said.
“In recent decades, its two functions have extended to trade, logistics, and production centres with an extensive portfolio of operations, including production, trade, and service industries,” he said.
“As the hub of the Pacific, Fiji’s seaports also serve as an entry and exit point assuming the role of ‘load break’ where cargos are consolidated or de-consolidated, and the transfer of goods and services to our neighbouring Pacific Island countries.
“These core functions demand stronger boarder control and security for our seaports.”
He said the border control not only controlled the entry of illegal goods and substances, but detected and deterred transnational crimes such as drug smuggling and human trafficking.
“It emphasises the need for intensified security measures and collaborative efforts to protect our economic activities and the wellbeing of our people,” Mr Vosarogo said.
“Border control agencies cannot work in silos; effective collaboration and co-ordination is necessary for identifying and addressing emerging threats promptly and comprehensively.
“Sharing intelligence, resources, and expertise can amplify our ability to detect and deter illicit activities, including smuggling, trafficking, and terrorism. “
Mr Vosarogo said a seamless exchange of information and cooperation across borders was pivotal in staying ahead of increasingly sophisticated transnational threats.