SUVA, FIJI – June 20, 2025 –With 110 people already registered from 8 Pacific countries, the Oceania Customs Organisation’s free Regional Customs Brokers Course is drawing strong interest ahead of its July launch.
The Oceania Customs Organisation is targeting professionals who handle the paperwork and procedures needed to get shipments cleared through customs. The course comes as Pacific Island nations continue to struggle with delays at ports and rising costs for imported goods.
Better-trained customs brokers could help speed things up, OCO officials say.
“Customs brokers are the essential bridge between businesses and customs administrations,” said Ms. Nancy T Oraka, Head of OCO Secretariat. “In our increasingly interconnected global economy, their role in navigating complex trade laws and procedures has never been more vital to our region’s economic prosperity.”
The program has already trained five groups of customs professionals since it started in 2022. This year’s course will cover trade agreements, how to classify goods properly, and preparing documentation that customs officers can process quickly.
For many Pacific Island businesses, getting goods through customs can be a challenge. Incorrect paperwork means delays, which can cost money and leave shelves empty. Customs brokers act as the go-between, helping businesses navigate the complex rules.
The virtual format means brokers from remote islands can participate without traveling. Participants will learn about new trade rules, how to spot compliance issues, and ways to work more effectively with customs officers.
“When brokers know what they’re doing, everything moves faster,” said Mr. Sumeet Singh, Trade and Revenue Management Adviser at OCO. “Goods get cleared quicker, there’s less congestion at ports, and businesses save money.”
Mr. Singh adds that the training is particularly important as trade patterns change and new agreements come into effect across the Pacific region.
“What worked five years ago might not work today. The course is open to both experienced brokers and newcomers to the field. Companies that handle their own customs work are also welcome,” he added.
To date, there are a total of 110 registered participants representing 8 member countries from American Samoa, Fiji, Kiribati, Guam, Nauru, Tuvalu and Vanuatu.
Registration is available through OCO’s Trade and Revenue Management Adviser, Sumeet Singh, at SumeetS@ocosec.org.
