The Ministry of Fisheries calls on all fishers, vendors, and exporters to observe the seasonal restrictions on harvesting, possession, transport and selling of Grouper (Kawakawa) and Coral Trout (Donu), which will be effective from June 1st through September 30th, 2025.
This seasonal ban, officially established by the Government in 2019, is designed to safeguard these species during their peak breeding months, from June to September.
The measure forms part of a strategic management plan aimed at protecting these fish during their spawning period, thereby preventing overfishing and ensuring the sustainability of Fiji’s marine ecosystems. These species are highly prized for their taste and market value, making them important both economically and culturally. Their predictable congregation during spawning makes them particularly vulnerable to overharvesting.
The four-month restriction aligns with the peak breeding season, maximizing conservation efforts while minimizing impact on fishermen’s livelihoods. While some spawning occurs outside this period, the majority of reproductive activity takes place within these months.
By limiting fishing during this critical time, the objective is to foster healthier fish populations, which will, in turn, lead to better catches and more stable incomes for fishermen over time.
The Ministry will continue to promote awareness and community engagement to support enforcement of this ban.
All fishers, restaurant owners, fish vendors, and local communities are strongly encouraged to comply with the ban and to support the Ministry of Fisheries in implementing this vital conservation measure.
Ongoing public education and community participation are key to the initiative’s success. Families, friends, and local groups are urged to comply and abide to the ban, contributing to the collective effort to restore Fiji’s fish stocks for future generations.