The Fiji Blue Economy Framework (2025–2035) was officially launched on Thursday after receiving endorsement from the Cabinet last week. Minister for Environment & Climate Change Mosese Bulitavu officiated the event, emphasizing the importance of effective management of ocean and marine resources like fisheries, tourism, and shipping. The framework aims to promote job creation and income without compromising the marine environment.
Mr. Bulitavu highlighted the critical role of the ocean in sustaining the population, protecting the islands, and supporting the economy. He warned that overuse and pollution of these resources could jeopardize Fiji’s future livelihoods and food security. To successfully implement this framework, he emphasized the need for collaboration across governmental ministries, partnership with local communities, and accountability from both public and private sectors.
Permanent Secretary for Environment and Climate Change, Dr. Sivendra Michael, clarified that the Blue Economy Framework is not an executable action plan but rather a strategic roadmap intended to guide decisions and investments. It strives to strike a balance between conservation and sustainable developmental initiatives. Dr. Michael assured that the framework is flexible, evolving with stakeholder input and adapting to changing circumstances.
A significant focus during the formulation of the framework was to ensure that it is accessible and understandable for all stakeholders, from community members to policymakers and investors. This approach included developing a translation and definition of the framework that resonates with the indigenous population, emphasizing sustainable resource management extending from land to sea.
The development process of the framework spanned a year, commencing in May 2024 and involving over 60 participants from various sectors, including government agencies, civil society, and international financial institutions. It underwent multiple stages of consultation, engaging the National Ocean Policy Steering Committee and aligning with ongoing reviews of Fiji’s National Ocean Policy.
The framework outlines seven thematic development pathways, encompassing areas such as forestry, energy, marine resources, and sustainable tourism. These pathways are intended to evolve over time, demonstrating a commitment to adapt and expand as the framework matures. A Blue Economy Task Force has been formed to oversee the coordination and implementation of this framework, which seeks to navigate the balance between economic growth and environmental stewardship over the next decade.
Overall, this initiative is poised to support Fiji’s ambition towards a sustainable and thriving blue economy, ensuring that economic development flourishes in harmony with environmental protection.