New fisheries strategy targets illegal fishing

Fiji has begun developing a new National Monitoring, Control and Surveillance (MCS) Strategy aimed at strengthening the fight against illegal fishing while protecting marine resources and the livelihoods of coastal communities.

The strategy was launched with its first stakeholder consultation, where Acting Permanent Secretary for Fisheries and Forestry Saimone Tauvoli said the new framework would strengthen Fiji's ability to address Illegal, Unreported and Unregulated (IUU) fishing.

Mr Tauvoli said the strategy would use modern tools and systems to improve monitoring and enforcement within Fiji's waters.

The strategy is aligned with the Fiji National Fisheries Policy and the Forum Fisheries Agency's Regional MCS Strategy.

Macuata-i-Wai headwoman Marama ni Koro Laisana Baleiniqalau Tokaduadua welcomed the initiative, saying stronger monitoring would help safeguard coastal communities.

She said improved monitoring systems would protect fishing grounds, promote the sustainable use of marine resources and ensure future generations continued to benefit from the ocean.

Turaga ni Koro of Nakalou Village, Meli Rokosau, said the strategy would help communities understand the importance of protecting fisheries resources while supporting those who relied on the sea for their livelihoods.

Stakeholders participating in the week-long desktop reviews and consultations will focus on measures to strengthen fisheries management and enforcement.

A key area of discussion is the integration of technology, including satellite tracking, automated electronic monitoring on vessels and predictive data analysis to identify suspicious vessel activity before breaches of Fiji's Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) occur.

The consultation will also examine port state measures to ensure Fiji's role as a regional hub does not create opportunities for illegally caught fish to enter markets.

Another priority is improving information sharing and cooperation among fisheries authorities, naval forces, customs and regional and international organisations, including the Forum Fisheries Agency.

Stakeholders will also review existing legislation to identify gaps and ensure the law supports modern monitoring systems and enables authorities to respond effectively to maritime offences.

Mr Tauvoli said the strategy marked a shift towards a more proactive approach to fisheries management.

He said it would enable authorities to identify risks early, monitor high-risk vessels and direct resources where they were needed most.

Participants have been encouraged to develop practical and measurable recommendations to strengthen the final strategy and support a secure and sustainable fisheries sector for current and future generations.