The Ministry of Tourism and Civil Aviation has issued a clarification regarding the Commercial Use of Marine Areas Bill 2025 (CUMA Bill), stating that it remains in draft form and has no current legal standing. The Ministry emphasized that the Bill must undergo debate and be passed by Parliament before it can be officially recognized as law.
Permanent Secretary Salaseini Daunabuna highlighted the importance of understanding that existing regulations remain intact until the CUMA Bill is formalized. “The draft CUMA Bill is currently in draft form and has no legal effect at this stage,” Daunabuna stated, noting that it will only take effect once Parliament approves and gazettes it.
The proposed legislation aims to repeal the Regulation of Surfing Areas Act 2010, replacing it with a framework that emphasizes fairness and transparency, allowing customary owners to regain rights to marine areas utilized for commercial activities. The Ministry asserts that the Bill introduces legal mechanisms designed to uphold principles of natural justice, ensuring that all parties involved are consulted and included in the process. It also seeks to empower local indigenous institutions in managing and overseeing these commercial marine regions.
However, the Ministry reiterated that the earlier Regulation of Surfing Areas Act 2010 is still valid, meaning currently, there are no provisions for compensation related to the use of marine areas for commercial tourism. Daunabuna stressed that any discussions regarding compensation between customary owners and business operators will only commence after the Bill receives parliamentary approval and adheres to established legal protocols.
To foster community engagement, the Ministry announced plans for nationwide consultations on the draft Bill, supported by the Parliament Standing Committee on Justice, Law, and Human Rights. Details regarding the schedule and locations for these consultations are anticipated to be shared soon. The Ministry encourages all stakeholders to participate actively in these discussions as Fiji navigates toward a modern, sustainable approach to the management of its marine areas for commercial tourism.
This move represents a significant step towards enhancing equity and local governance in the use of natural resources, promising a more collaborative future for all parties involved.