Parliament has passed the Aquaculture Bill 2024 establishing a framework for regulating and supporting its aquaculture industry in a sustainable and biosecure manner.
This was highlighted by Minister for Fisheries and Forestry Alitia Bainivalu in her opening statement for the consideration for Aquaculture Act 2024 in Parliament recently.
“This Act provides a solid framework to regulate and support Fiji’s aquaculture industry in a way that promotes sustainability, biosecurity, and responsible resource management.”
Fisheries Minister Bainivalu added the Aquaculture Act 2024 outlines the creation of designated aquaculture zones where both marine and freshwater aquaculture activities can be conducted sustainably, without causing environmental degradation.
“This approach will protect Fiji’s unique marine and freshwater ecosystems while fostering economic growth in communities across the country.”
“This is a turning point for global food production, and Fiji must act now to ensure we are part of this global movement. We are already seeing increasing demand for seafood, with aquaculture offering a sustainable solution to feed a growing population and to mitigate the strain on wild fisheries.”
Minister Bainivalu further stated the Act categorises licenses into commercial, semi-commercial, and subsistence/food security types, ensuring that aquaculture enterprises are registered, monitored, and meet biosecurity standards.
“Through this licensing system, aquaculture enterprises will gain legal recognition, empowering them to access financial support, be it loans or grants, which will fuel further growth and innovation in the sector.”
“Additionally, the Act empowers land-owning units and communities to better utilise their lands for aquaculture, particularly in areas affected by saltwater intrusion, where agricultural activities are no longer viable.”
Minister Bainivalu said every year, the Government allocates substantial funding to support aquaculture initiatives, such as pearl farming, seaweed projects, and the development and maintenance of aquaculture hatcheries.
“This sustained investment demonstrates the Government’s commitment to the sector. However, to truly maximise the potential of these investments, we need a strong, enforceable legal framework that ensures sustainability, biosecurity, and long-term success,” she added.