Kawakawa and Donu ban lifted

The four-month seasonal ban on Kawakawa (Grouper) and Donu (Coral Trout) is now lifted.

The ban officially ended on September 30, allowing fishing, selling, and transporting of the two popular fish species to resume across Fiji.

In a statement, the Ministry of Fisheries said this reopening comes after a four-month seasonal ban that was imposed earlier this year.

“Members of the public are now permitted to resume activities related to Kawakawa (Grouper) and Donu (Coral Trout), two highly prized fish species within their respective families.

These activities include harvesting, which encompasses fishing, capturing, and landing possession of the fish, transportation, as well as selling, offering for sale, or dealing in these species.”

 The ban, which began in June, was part of a national conservation effort to protect these fish during their peak breeding season.

Authorities say the restriction helps replenish fish stocks and supports long-term sustainable fishing practices.

Members of the public, including fishers and vendors, are now permitted to engage in activities involving Kawakawa and Donu, provided they follow local regulations and sustainable harvesting guidelines.

Officials have stressed the importance of continuing responsible fishing to ensure these valuable marine resources remain available for future generations.