A new Bill before Parliament seeks to give fisheries officers expanded powers to search, seize and detain vessels and individuals suspected of illegal fishing.
The Fisheries (Amendment) Bill 2025 — tabled yesterday — proposes amendments to Section 7 of the Fisheries Act to strengthen enforcement and compliance within Fiji’s fisheries sector.
Under the proposed changes, authorised officers — including fisheries, police and customs officers — will be empowered to require anyone engaged in fishing to produce their licence, gear and catch, enter premises or board vessels believed to be involved in fishing activities and detain suspected offenders, along with vessels, fishing gear and fish, without a warrant or summons.
The Bill also allows for detained vessels and equipment to be held pending trial, and authorises the Permanent Secretary for Fisheries to release them upon payment of a bond or fixed penalty.
Those who refuse entry or obstruct officers in the course of their duties could face fines of up to $20,000 or three months imprisonment for individuals, and up to $50,000 for companies.
The Fisheries (Amendment) Bill will be debated in Parliament today.
