Ban imposed on firecracker imports at Indonesian border

A total ban has been placed on the importation of firecrackers through the Papua New Guinea–Indonesia border as festive season celebrations begin.

PNG Customs officers at Wutung say they have recorded an increase in attempts to move firecrackers across the border from Indonesia into PNG. They confirmed that approval to import any firecrackers can only be granted by the Police Commissioner.

In an instruction memo dated November 28, 2025, PNG Customs Wutung Operation warned all border users, particularly locals along the West Coast who often assist in the movement of these items, to stop smuggling firecrackers into the country.

The memo stated that any individual found with firecrackers within the Customs Control Area [CCA] will be arrested by police and charged under the Customs Prohibited Regulation for possession of explosive devices, or under related laws of the RPNGC.

It further noted that all prohibited items will be seized by Customs and police at any time within the CCA or at designated checkpoints.

PNG Customs is urging the public to comply with the ban and refrain from any illegal activity involving the importation of firecrackers.

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