FRCS: All overseas aid to be sent to NDMO

ALL aid from individuals and organisations based overseas for Severe Tropical Cyclone Yasa victims are to be sent to the National Disaster Management Office (NDMO), an advisory from the Fiji Revenue and Customs Service (FRCS) stated.

The NDMO would then coordinate and distribute the goods accordingly, said FRCS.

FRCS also said all donated goods consigned to religious and charitable organisations for relief purposes are free of duty and value added tax (VAT) “provided that these goods are addressed to the Prime Minister’s Hurricane Relief and Rehabilitation Fund and approved by the National Disaster Management Office (NDMO)”.

These aid should also be for areas declared under the State of Natural Disaster.

“This concession is available until 15th January, 2021 in line with the declaration of the state of natural disaster unless extended by the Minister for Economy,” FRCS said.

“The concession is applicable to Fijians who have been genuinely affected by the impact of Tropical Cyclone Yasa.”

Individuals who are going to receive goods such as household items and rebuilding materials from overseas have to provide evidence of “damage and cyclone impact”.

“At the time of clearance, the tax identification number (TIN) and a valid ID such as the voter card confirming the residential address must be produced by the individual to whom the goods are consigned to.

“The goods imported must provide immediate relief such as household effects or assistance in rebuilding but does not include jewellery, vehicles and prohibited or restricted items.”

FRCS said it would engage with NDMO and the Fiji

National Provident Fund to verify persons requiring assistance under the identified areas affected by the Severe Tropical Cyclone Yasa and flood.

“Goods, which are not consigned or deemed as disaster relief, shall be cleared under the normal provisions and the appropriate duty rates will be applied.”

FRCS said importation and donation of disaster relief goods were eligible for duty concession under the Customs Tariff Act.