Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka has announced that the Cabinet has approved the National Fisheries Policy for 2024–2028. In his statement, Rabuka emphasized that the policy aims to establish a strategic framework for the sustainable management of Fiji’s fisheries and aquaculture sectors, focusing on sustainability, economic growth, and food security.
The policy outlines specific strategies for various sectors, including:
– Offshore Fisheries: Developing management plans, updating legislation, supporting industry growth, and conducting strategic research.
– Aquaculture: Promoting sustainable practices, modernizing legislation, and adopting environmentally friendly methods.
– Coastal and Inland Fisheries: Emphasizing community-based management, updating legislation, and supporting small-scale fisheries.
– Cross-Sectoral Issues: Addressing marine spatial management, promoting gender and youth involvement, implementing environmental policies, and connecting with tourism.
The Prime Minister noted that the policy is the result of extensive consultations with stakeholders and aligns with national goals and international commitments.