The Biosecurity Authority of Fiji (BAF) has activated domestic quarantine measures for the Yasawa and Mamanuca islands following the detection of the Bactrocera facialis, commonly known as the Tongan fruit fly.
The quarantine, which takes effect immediately, will remain in place until further notice, as authorities move to contain the pest and prevent its spread to other parts of Fiji.
“This is an urgent measure to protect Fiji’s fruit and vegetable industries, our communities, and export markets,” BAF said in a statement.
Under the quarantine order, no fresh fruits or fruiting vegetables are to be moved off the Yasawa or Mamanuca islands without BAF clearance.
This restriction covers a wide range of produce including mango, guava, pawpaw (papaya), breadfruit, citrus, chilli, tomato, eggplant, capsicum, cucumber, and starfruit, as well as any home-grown or market-bought produce.
“We urge all residents, resort operators, and vessel owners to comply fully with these movement controls. Any non-compliance will result in enforcement action under the Biosecurity Act 2008,” the statement warned.
BAF confirmed that checkpoint inspections are active at vessel and jetty points, and fruit waste must be disposed of in sealed bins—not dumped at sea or left exposed.
“People may continue to grow, harvest, sell, and consume fruits and vegetables within Yasawa and Mamanuca,” BAF clarified. “However, taking produce to Viti Levu or other islands is strictly prohibited.”
The authority has also urged travelers not to carry any fresh fruits or vegetables when moving between islands and to report any unusual maggots or infested fruit to BAF officers immediately.
