The Government plans to strengthen monitoring and enforcement measures to combat illegal fishing activities within Fiji’s waters.
Minister for Fisheries and Forestry Alitia Bainivalu made the statement in Parliament while outlining priorities for the fisheries sector during debate on the President’s address.
She said the ministry was responding to increasing concerns over illicit activities occurring within Fiji’s Exclusive Economic Zone and coastal areas.
Strengthening surveillance was part of broader efforts to ensure the sustainable management of Fiji’s marine resources, she added.
A key development in this effort was the establishment of the National Fisheries Surveillance and Operations Centre in April last year.
Ms Bainivalu said Fiji’s ocean resources played a critical role in national development.
“Fiji’s ocean resources are not merely economic assets, they are the foundation of our food security, rural livelihoods, cultural identity, and national development and aspirations.”
The minister added that sustainable fisheries management was central to protecting marine ecosystems and securing long-term benefits for future generations.
