Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka has announced that the Cabinet has approved the National Fisheries Policy for the years 2024 to 2028. In his statement, Rabuka emphasized that this policy establishes a strategic framework aimed at managing Fiji’s fisheries and aquaculture sectors, with an emphasis on sustainability, economic growth, and food security.
The policy outlines specific strategies for various sectors, including:
– Offshore Fisheries: Implementation of management plans, legislative updates, industry growth support, and strategic research initiatives.
– Aquaculture: Encouragement of sustainable practices, updating of relevant legislation, and adoption of eco-friendly methods.
– Coastal and Inland Fisheries: Emphasis on community-driven management, legislative updates, and support for small-scale fishery operations.
– Cross-Sectoral Issues: Focus on marine spatial management, engagement of gender and youth, environmental policies, and the relationship with the tourism sector.
The Prime Minister highlighted that this policy is the result of comprehensive consultations with stakeholders and is designed to align with both national goals and international obligations.