Parliament has officially approved the Aquaculture Bill 2024, which establishes a comprehensive framework for the sustainable and responsible management of Fiji’s aquaculture industry. Minister for Fisheries and Forestry, Alitia Bainivalu, emphasized the importance of this legislation during her introductory remarks in Parliament.
“This Act provides a robust structure to regulate and support Fiji’s aquaculture industry while promoting sustainability, biosecurity, and responsible resource management,” Bainivalu stated.
The Aquaculture Act 2024 outlines the establishment of specialized aquaculture zones, allowing for both marine and freshwater activities to take place in an environmentally friendly manner. Bainivalu noted that this strategy is designed to safeguard Fiji’s unique marine and freshwater ecosystems while promoting economic growth in local communities.
She went on to highlight the urgency for Fiji to participate in the global food production movement, pointing out the rise in seafood demand. “Aquaculture presents a sustainable solution to feed a growing population and alleviate the pressure on wild fisheries,” she remarked.
The Act classifies licenses into commercial, semi-commercial, and subsistence/food security categories, ensuring that aquaculture operations are registered and adhere to biosecurity criteria. “Through this licensing framework, enterprises will gain legal recognition that will enable them to access financing—whether through loans or grants—to foster growth and innovation within the sector,” Bainivalu detailed.
In addition, the Act facilitates land-owning units and communities to optimize their land usage for aquaculture, particularly in regions facing saltwater intrusion where traditional agriculture is becoming increasingly infeasible.
The Government allocates significant funding yearly to support various aquaculture initiatives, including pearl farming and seaweed projects, as well as the development of aquaculture hatcheries. Bainivalu reiterated the importance of a strong legislative framework to ensure the sustainability and long-term success of these investments, underscoring the Government’s commitment to maximizing the benefits from such funding.
This legislation represents a hopeful step towards a sustainable future for Fiji’s aquaculture industry, potentially fostering economic growth while prioritizing environmental stewardship.
Summary: The Aquaculture Bill 2024, recently passed by Parliament, sets a framework for sustainable aquaculture practices in Fiji, emphasizing the importance of biosecurity and responsible resource management. It includes designated aquaculture zones and categorizes licenses for operations, ensuring they are regulated and supported financially, which could lead to significant economic growth and environmental protection.
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