A new Cash Export and Import Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) was launched this week on World Customs Day in Port Vila.

The Department of Customs and Inland Revenue developed the SOP, which outlines the process for the export and import of foreign currencies and Vanuatu Vatu through financial institutions at the international airport.

The Standard Operating Procedure applies to licensed banks and financial institutions that are reporting entities under Financial Intelligence Unit (FIU) regulations, authorised Cash-In-Transit (CIT) service providers, the Department of Customs and Inland Revenue, and other government agencies operating at the international airport.

Under the Customs Border Regulations, any cash amount exceeding one million vatu must be declared to Customs and receive approval before it can be exported from or brought into Vanuatu.

If cash is not declared and does not have approval, it is considered illegal.

The SOP also states that the cash must be transported to the airport by an approved CIT provider or under strong security escort.

The document was developed following the country’s first reported armed robbery at the airport last month.

Customs Director Harold Tarosa said the SOP ensures that the handling of export and import cash is safer.

“We have already signed an SOP that is present. There will be some new processes, our commitment with some financial institutions and FIU to make sure that it is handled in a way that is more safe and secure in enforcement and community.”

Minister of Finance Johnny Koanapo said the incident was a wake-up call for authorities to be more prepared as criminal activities continue to change.

“We call ourselves to be a very peaceful destination, but the world is changing. Culture of criminal activities, mindset, peace-loving people are changing. Don’t take this for granted. The system must change and evolve in the new culture, and the culture of armed robbery should not be encouraged. Customs has a role to play in the border system on what enters and leaves the country, so we are here to sign an SOP to give confidence in the private sector.”

He also thanked Customs officers for protecting the country from international trade risks such as drug smuggling and human trafficking, and for performing well in revenue collection last year. Minister Koanapo called on border control officers to work with integrity.

The Customs Department also welcomed four new vehicles to assist officers in carrying out their duties.