The Government has stepped up containment efforts against the Asian Subterranean Termite, with infestations continuing to damage homes, farms and public infrastructure across the Western and Northern divisions.
Responding to a question from Opposition MP Jone Usamate, Minister for Agriculture and Waterways Tomasi Tunabuna said the invasive termite species had become a significant threat, particularly in Lautoka, Nadi and Labasa.
He said the pest was “highly destructive, difficult to contain once established, and capable of causing intensive structural damage”.
Mr Tunabuna said the spread of the termite had affected residential areas, commercial buildings, and farming communities.
Its ability to travel through soil and infested materials had made containment challenging, prompting a coordinated response from the Ministry of Agriculture and Waterways, Biosecurity Authority of Fiji and Ministry of Forestry.
He said surveillance teams were carrying out more frequent inspections and mapping high-risk zones to detect early signs of infestation.
Targeted baiting programs were underway in hotspot areas using approved bait stations and termiticides.
“For the first time now, affordable baits are available locally from pest control companies,” he said.
Mr Tunabuna said termites were also damaging crops, fruit trees, and tree plantations, increasing rehabilitation costs for farmers and threatening long-term food security.
Quarantine measures restricting the movement of timber, soil and demolition waste remain in force to prevent cross-regional spread.
Several areas have been declared Biosecurity Emergency Areas under the Biosecurity Act 2008, prohibiting the movement of any termite-hosting material without authorisation.
Violations carry legal penalties.
Mr Tunabuna urged the public to report suspected infestations promptly to authorities.
