The Fijian government has introduced a significant legislative measure aimed at enhancing the enforcement and compliance mechanisms within the fisheries sector. The Fisheries (Amendment) Bill 2025 was presented in Parliament by Minister for Fisheries Alitia Bainivalu, marking a pivotal step in modernizing the country’s approach to managing its marine resources.
The proposed legislation introduces new definitions and expands the authority of authorized officers, including fisheries officers, police, and customs officials. These changes will allow for broader powers to search, inspect, and detain vessels, fishing equipment, and suspected offenders who may violate the Fisheries Act. A noteworthy feature of the Bill is the establishment of an Inshore Fisheries Fixed Penalty Notice system, designed to address minor offences more efficiently.
Under the new law, individuals who fail to pay fixed penalties within a designated timeframe could be subject to formal court action under the Criminal Procedure Act 2009. The amendments propose increased penalties for breaches of license conditions, setting fines at up to $1,000 or a potential six-month imprisonment. Furthermore, severe violations may incur fines reaching $30,000 for individuals and $50,000 for businesses.
Additionally, the Bill eliminates references to honorary fish wardens and grants the Minister the authority to appoint authorized officers directly. It also includes provisions that allow the Permanent Secretary to suspend or cancel fishing licenses for non-compliance or overdue payments, while establishing a clear appeals process to the Minister for those disputing license decisions. An expansion of the definition of “fish” is also included; it will now cover aquatic mammals, coral, turtles, and beche-de-mer, reflecting a more comprehensive understanding of marine biodiversity.
The Bill is set to be debated under Standing Order 51 today, signaling its potential swift progression through Parliament. This legislation is crucial not only for enhancing compliance within Fiji’s fisheries but also plays a significant role in preserving the sustainability of its marine environments.
This initiative reflects a growing commitment to responsible resource management. As Fiji navigates the challenges posed by environmental change and overfishing, the Fisheries (Amendment) Bill 2025 promotes a proactive and structured approach to safeguarding its precious maritime resources for future generations.