The Fijian government has introduced a new Bill to Parliament aimed at enhancing enforcement capabilities and modernizing compliance measures within the fisheries sector. The Fisheries (Amendment) Bill 2025, presented by Minister for Fisheries Alitia Bainivalu, seeks to implement a range of reforms that include more comprehensive definitions, expanded powers for authorized officers, and the establishment of an Inshore Fisheries Fixed Penalty Notice system for minor infractions.
This proposed legislation will grant fisheries officers, as well as police and customs officials, broader powers to search, inspect, and detain vessels, fishing gear, and individuals suspected of violations under the Fisheries Act. A significant change involves the removal of references to “honorary” fish wardens, thereby allowing the Minister to appoint authorized officers directly.
The Bill aims to modernize compliance measures by introducing a fixed penalty notice system. According to the explanatory note accompanying the Bill, these penalties will serve as an initial deterrent to non-compliance, functioning alongside the possibility of prosecution. Offenders who do not pay their penalty within 21 days may face formal court proceedings under the Criminal Procedure Act of 2009, which could result in increased fines or prison sentences.
Increases in penalties are also a key feature of the Bill; breaching license conditions may incur maximum fines of $1,000 or up to six months’ imprisonment, while some offences could lead to fines as steep as $30,000 for individuals and $50,000 for companies. Other amendments will enable the Permanent Secretary to suspend or revoke fishing licenses for various breaches, with provisions for appeals to the Minister in cases of license denial, suspension, or cancellation. Notably, the Bill also broadens the definition of “fish” to encompass aquatic mammals, coral, turtles, and beche-de-mer.
The significance of this legislation comes at a time when Fiji is actively enhancing its regulatory frameworks across its fisheries and aquaculture sectors. The recent passage of the Aquaculture Bill 2024, which establishes designated zones for sustainable aquaculture, underscores the government’s commitment to balancing environmental stewardship with economic development. This holistic approach not only protects marine biodiversity but also supports local communities in adapting to changing environmental conditions, such as saltwater intrusion affecting traditional agriculture.
As these latest legislative efforts unfold, they reflect a hopeful trajectory for Fiji’s fisheries sector, demonstrating a commitment to both sustainable resource management and the resilience of local economies.
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