THE Fiji Revenue and Customs Service (FRCS) and the Land Transport Authority (LTA) signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) this afternoon to protect and better serve members of the public.

The MOU was signed between FRCS Chief Executive Officer, Mr. Visvanath Das and LTA Chief Executive Officer, Mr. Samuel Simpson at the LTA Boardroom in Valelevu today.

“This is a momentous occasion for FRCS and LTA to further enhance the existing MOU that we had in place. This MOU will enhance and strengthen our partnership with LTA in carrying out statutory responsibilities,” Mr. Das said.

“We seek collaboration and work together with LTA as we have been trying to crack down on smuggled vehicles which remains a continuous challenge for us,” he said.

“Unfortunately, fraudulent behavior by a few people in our community who try to beat the system poses a risk and creates illicit activities in the community,” he added.

Mr. Das said this MOU will enable ease of doing business in Fiji.

Members of the public can now stamp transfer of motor vehicles at any LTA office.

“We are empowering LTA officers to administer and collect stamp duty on our behalf. Necessary trainings will be provided to LTA officers on collection of Stamp Duty on transfer of registered vehicles,” Mr. Das said.

“FRCS will update LTA immediately of any changes to Stamp Duties Act in respect of Motor Vehicle Transfer. In addition, LTA will continue to serve our Gold Card members,” he added.

While acknowledging the existing partnership with LTA, Mr. Das said that FRCS is looking forward for a greater partnership and cooperation for the betterment of all Fijians.

LTA CEO Mr. Samuel Simpson said the LTA is delighted to sign the MOU with FRCS offering customers a one stop shop of doing business with LTA especially in terms of stamp duty as customers don’t have to go to FRCS office to have this transaction done as the service will be provided by the LTA and other important information from FRCS.

The MOU further safeguards Fijian consumers in terms of importation of vehicle in the country allowing LTA to ensure safety standards are maintained for the vehicles. Also the joint operation between FRCS and LTA enforcement officials that will take place in tracking down the illegal Taxis and PSV vehicle operations on our roads as part of this important milestone for the relationship between the FRCS and LTA.

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