The Fiji Government has disclosed that around 5,299 residences in Nakasi and Davuilevu, home to 19,144 people, are suffering from a significant termite infestation. In response, Prime Minister and Minister for Public Enterprises, Sitiveni Rabuka, has declared Nakasi and Davuilevu a biosecurity emergency area for Asian Subterranean Termites. This decision, effective from June 17 for six months, is based on advice from the Biosecurity Authority of Fiji and the National Disaster Management Council.
According to the government gazette released recently, transporting any stage, including eggs, of the Asian Subterranean Termites or materials housing them within or out of the emergency area is strictly forbidden, unless specifically authorized by the Biosecurity Authority of Fiji. The gazette also mentions that these termites can be found in various materials such as soil, plants, timber, wooden constructions, furniture, and cellulose items like books and clothing that have been stored for some time.
Breaching any directions resultant from this declaration is considered an offense under sections 79(3) and 94 of the Biosecurity Act 2008, and offenders will face penalties as outlined in Schedule 5 of the Act.