Fiji’s Cabinet has made a significant decision to lift the ban on the harvest and trade of bêche-de-mer, a move aimed at balancing economic opportunities with environmental sustainability. The harvesting of designated species will be permitted for a four-month period, starting from February 1, 2026, through May 30, 2026. This initiative also includes an additional two-month window, extending until July 30, 2026, for licensed traders to process and export the product.
To ensure adherence to sustainable practices, the Ministry of Fisheries will implement close monitoring of both the harvesting and trade activities. This cautious approach seeks to protect marine resources while also providing economic benefits to local communities reliant on the bêche-de-mer trade.
Overall, the decision underscores a commitment to responsible resource management, aiming to support livelihoods without compromising the health of marine ecosystems for future generations.