Maritime Transportation is an essential enabler to the continued development and future growth of Fiji’s economy, says the Ministry of Transport and Infrastructure Permanent Secretary Francis Kean.

This was highlighted by him at the World Maritime Day celebrations held in Labasa on Thursday.

Mr Kean said the Ministry, in partnership with relevant stakeholders including the Maritime Safety Authority of Fiji, would continue to play a role in the growth of the shipping industry.

“Most importantly the Ministry will continue to support stakeholders by creating an environment that would encourage compliance through self-regulation,” he said.

Mr Kean said the maritime industry has undertaken a major transformation for the past four years.

“Apart from the introduction of a new maritime legislation, several other key areas of the industry have been revamped to ensure a vibrant and dynamic maritime industry.”

He added this included the review of the Fiji Franchise Shipping Scheme which has been successfully completed and now awaiting implementation.