Fiji is set to enhance maritime safety and compliance with international standards through the Maritime Transport (Budget Amendment) Bill 2025.
The Bill, which amends the Maritime Transport Act 2013, was introduced in Parliament yesterday.
It aligns Fiji’s regulations with the International Convention for the Safety of Life at Sea (SOLAS) by mandating the use of the Automatic Identification System (AIS) on ships navigating in Fiji waters.
The AIS, a real-time ship tracking technology, is critical for improving maritime safety, security, and environmental protection.
The proposed amendments empower the Maritime Safety Authority of Fiji (MSAF) to regulate, inspect, and enforce AIS compliance, ensuring vessels adhere to global safety standards.
New provisions mandates the installation and continuous operation of AIS on all ships in Fiji waters, in line with SOLAS requirements.
This ensures that vessels are trackable at all times, reducing risks and enhancing response capabilities in emergencies.
The MSAF’s enhanced regulatory powers will ensure that these measures are effectively enforced, marking a significant step forward for Fiji’s maritime sector.
