Parliament has approved the Aquaculture Bill 2024, which establishes a comprehensive framework to manage and support Fiji’s aquaculture sector in a sustainable and environmentally responsible manner. Minister for Fisheries and Forestry, Alitia Bainivalu, accentuated the significance of the Act during its recent presentation in Parliament.
“This Act establishes a strong foundation to regulate and bolster Fiji’s aquaculture industry while promoting sustainability, biosecurity, and responsible resource management,” Bainivalu stated.
The Aquaculture Act 2024 introduces designated aquaculture zones where both marine and freshwater activities can be pursued sustainably without harming the environment. Bainivalu noted, “This approach will safeguard Fiji’s unique marine and freshwater ecosystems while simultaneously boosting economic growth in various communities across the nation.”
She emphasized the urgency of this initiative, calling it a pivotal moment for global food production. “With the rising demand for seafood, aquaculture presents a sustainable alternative that can alleviate pressures on wild fisheries and help feed the growing population,” she said.
Bainivalu also outlined a licensing framework that categorizes endeavors into commercial, semi-commercial, and subsistence/food security types. This ensures that aquaculture projects are properly registered, monitored, and adhere to biosecurity protocols. “This licensing system will provide legal recognition to aquaculture enterprises, enabling them to secure funding through loans or grants, which can further accelerate growth and innovation within the sector,” she remarked.
The Act additionally empowers land-owning units and community members to optimize their land for aquaculture, particularly in areas impacted by saltwater intrusion where traditional agriculture has become impractical.
Bainivalu pointed out that the Government consistently allocates significant funding for aquaculture projects, including pearl farming and seaweed cultivation, as well as the establishment and maintenance of aquaculture hatcheries.
“This ongoing financial support reflects the Government’s dedication to the sector. However, to fully harness the potential of these investments, we require a robust and enforceable legal framework to ensure sustainability, biosecurity, and long-term viability,” she concluded.
The passage of this bill marks a progressive step towards the sustainable development of Fiji’s aquaculture industry, promising economic benefits while protecting the nation’s precious natural resources.
This initiative represents hope for local communities, as it not only supports sustainable practices but also fuels economic growth, enhancing food security and the livelihoods of many.
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