The Ministry of Fisheries and Forests has officially lifted the seasonal ban on Grouper and Coral trout, known locally as Kawakawa and Donu, which concluded on September 30.
These fish species are vital to coastal marine ecosystems and are important sources of food and income for many communities. The seasonal ban was introduced to safeguard these fish during their spawning period and to prevent overfishing, which could lead to a decline in their populations and the potential disappearance of the fishery.
Minister Alitia Bainivalu expressed gratitude to the Fijian people for their commitment and support during the ban, which lasted from June 1 to September 30. She called on the public to continue collaborating in the efforts to sustain, manage, and protect the nation’s fisheries and ocean resources.
“With the ban now lifted, I encourage everyone to practice good stewardship and to fish responsibly and sustainably,” Bainivalu emphasized.