Maritime transport services remain operational across Fiji despite an ongoing dispute involving Interlink Shipping and Goundar Shipping Ltd.
And Government has assured there would be no disruption to inter-island connectivity as regulators work through the matter.
Assistant Minister for Public Works Naisa Tuinaceva said the Maritime Safety Authority of Fiji (MSAF) was handling the dispute, which involved operational and scheduling tensions between the two shipping operators.
“The Maritime Safety Authority of Fiji, which is the proper body, is handling that dispute, and I think we’ve already heard about the development so far, that the service will continue,” Mr Tuinaceva said.
” Through MSAF we are trying to solve problems, address the issues.”
He said Government was relying on established regulatory processes to ensure continuity of services while safety and operational concerns were addressed.
“We are looking to find a solution.”
Mr Tuinaceva stressed that maintaining stability in inter-island shipping remained a priority, given its importance to communities and businesses that depended heavily on maritime transport.
The dispute between Interlink and Goundar Shipping has centred on access to key jetties and scheduling arrangements, which in recent weeks contributed to delays and operational disruptions on some routes.
However, authorities have moved to manage compliance issues while ensuring services continue.
Mr Tuinaceva also confirmed that discussions have reached senior levels of Government regarding the possible establishment of a government-run shipping service to improve reliability in the sector.
“I think the ministry through the line minister is already aware of that, and I think they’ve been talking as ministers on that issue.”
He said consultations were ongoing as Government explored long-term solutions to strengthen efficiency and reliability in maritime transport while maintaining uninterrupted services in the short term.
