As of yesterday, seven additional derelict vessels have been removed from Fiji’s waters, including six restored to operation, and one successfully scuttled, permanent secretary for Ministry of Environment and Climate Change, Dr Sivendra Michael has confirmed.
In 2025, 13 vessels were successfully removed with the majority safely scuffled.
“Six vessels, all Chinese vessels were restored to operation and have departed, and one vessel, Winstar, has been successfully scuttled last week by MSAF and Ministry of Environment and Climate change,” he said.
He said the next phase of the program will focus on removing 17 additional vessels in the next six months.
Dr Michael explained that legislative updates are also underway to better manage vessel operations.
“The legislation on daily vessels is with Fiji Ports and MSAF, and we are looking at amending the legislation to manage operations more effectively.”
The program had also secured $US1million ($F2.2m) in philanthropy funds which had gone directly to Fiji Ports Corporation Ltd (FPCL).
“FPCL has two contractors that have been vetted. They are awaiting board decision so the contractors will be paid, and the vessels should be removed in the next six months.”
According to Dr Michael, the combined approach is designed to make Fiji’s waters safer and cleaner.
“Part of the $1million package is the support to transform or amend our legislation.”
He concluded by connecting maritime effort to land-based issues, noting that amendments will be made to the Litter’s Act to classify abandoned cars as dangerous litter.
