The first Container X-ray Scanner Unit for the Ministry of Customs and Revenue has
arrived in Samoa. Hon. Tuala Tevaga Iosefo Ponifasio, Deputy Prime Minister and
Minister of MCR was at the Matautu wharf to witness the arrival of this long awaited
equipmemt. He was accompanied by the Chief Executive Officer, representative of the
Nuctech Company from China, managers and officers of the Ministry, when the
consignment was discharged from the vessel.

The scanner is funded by the Asian Development Bank as one of the key components of
the Enhancing Safety, Security and Sustainability of the Apia Ports Project (ESSSAP).
The arrival of the Container X-ray equipment is a milestone for the Ministry and MCR
wishes to thank the Asian Development Bank and the Government of Samoa for their
assistance which enabled them to procure this much needed and critical high value
equipment. The container x-ray equipment will be of great importance to the border
security commitment of the Ministry.

The equipment is now in storage to await completion of the construction of the Customs
warehouse, which will be utilized for the operations of the x-ray scanner. Completion of
the construction works is scheduled in May 2024 and the scanner will be launched as soon
as installation, training and commissioning is completed.