The Ministry of Revenue and Customs (MORC) has formally taken over a new Air Cargo Control Unit (ACCU) facility from the Government of Australia and the Australian Border Force, marking a key step in enhancing aviation security and trade efficiency.
The handover ceremony took place today at Fua’amotu International Airport, attended by government and regional officials.
The ACCU, now under the operational management of Tonga Customs, is designed to improve risk-based oversight of air cargo entering and leaving the kingdom. It aims to streamline clearance processes while bolstering compliance with international standards for border control and trade facilitation.
The Minister for Revenue and Customs, Seventeen Toumo’ua, presided over the event as Guest of Honour. In his address, he acknowledged Australia’s sustained support in building Tonga’s customs capabilities and highlighted the unit’s role in strengthening national border security.
H.E. Brek Batley, Australian High Commissioner to Tonga, reaffirmed Australia’s commitment to supporting resilient, modern customs systems and emphasised the importance of regional cooperation in addressing illicit trade and safeguarding supply chains.
The establishment of the ACCU reflects broader efforts to modernise Tonga’s customs operations and integrate more closely with regional and global supply chains, part of longstanding partnerships in trade and security development. Australian Border Force has previously provided training and technical assistance to Tongan officers and other agencies.
Customs officials say the unit will focus on efficient cargo clearance and risk assessment to facilitate legitimate trade, while improving detection of prohibited or high-risk goods. As Tonga continues to adapt its border management systems, the ACCU is expected to play a central role in future aviation and logistics operations.
