Fiji’s oceans and forests remain central to the country’s food security, rural livelihoods and economic development, Minister for Fisheries and Forestry Alitia Bainivalu told Parliament Monday.
Bainivalu said the management of Fiji’s natural resources must be coordinated across government sectors.
“The sustainable management of our oceans, forests, and natural capital requires precisely this integrated architecture where environment, economy, land, climate resilience, trade and social inclusion are aligned under a unified national agenda.
In this regard, the Ministries responsible for Fisheries and Forestry are not standalone actors. We are central pillars in delivering food security, export earnings, climate mitigation, rural livelihoods and biodiversity conservation for Fiji,” She said this in her response to Fiji President Ratu Naiqama Lalabalavu’s 2026 opening address in Parliament.
Bainivalu said the fisheries sector is aligning its work with the national development vision outlined in the President’s address.
“The fisheries sector is committed to aligning its efforts with the vision articulated by His Excellency, to root in unity, responsible governance, sustainable resource management, and inclusive economic transformation. Fiji’s ocean resources are not merely economic assets; they are the foundation of our food security, rural livelihoods, cultural identity, and national development and aspirations. As a large ocean state, we carry both privilege and responsibility.”
She said the Ministry of Fisheries works with other government agencies to support economic growth, environmental protection and social wellbeing.
“His Excellency underscored the importance of adopting a whole-of-government approach to sustainable development. The Ministry of Fisheries’ roles and responsibilities support and complement the work of other line government agencies on achieving sustainable economic growth, ensuring environmental sustainability, eliminating poverty, promoting inclusivity, and ensuring the social and cultural well-being of all Fijians.”
Bainivalu said Fiji continues to show leadership in regional fisheries management.
“His Excellency, reaffirmed Fiji’s commitment to regional leadership and international advocacy for the long-term sustainability of our fisheries resources.”
She highlighted new legislation passed in recent years to strengthen fisheries governance.
“Over the past two years (2024 – 2025), the Ministry has achieved significant milestones, including the enactment of the Aquaculture Act 2024… and the Fisheries (Amendment) Bill 2025 – modernises the enforcement and compliance framework of the Fisheries Act by introducing an inshore fixed penalty notice as a first-tier deterrent against non-compliance.”
Bainivalu said work will continue this year on several new laws.
“Our objective this year is clear: to remain steadfast in our commitment to completing the review and the enactment of the Inshore Fisheries Management Bill… Offshore Fisheries Management Act and Regulations… and Aquaculture Regulations… to promote sustainable aquaculture development in Fiji.”
The Minister said Fiji has strengthened surveillance systems to address illegal fishing.
“In light of the escalating incidence of illicit activities within our Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) and inshore areas, the Ministry will heighten its Monitoring, Control, and Surveillance (MCS) to counter illegal, unreported, and unregulated (IUU) fishing practices.”
She said a new monitoring facility was launched last year.
“A significant milestone was achieved in April 2025, with the launch of the National Fisheries Surveillance and Operations Centre at the Fisheries Station in Walu Bay, equipped with a modern vessel monitoring system and satellite access, enabling real-time tracking of fishing vessels within our Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ).”
Bainivalu said government is working with development partners to increase the value of fisheries resources.
“With the support of our development partners, our primary focus is to increase the value retention of tuna caught in our waters, to be processed locally, and to create employment opportunities and a stronger economy.”
She also noted the successful hosting of the 9th Pacific Tuna Forum in Nadi last year.
“The successful convening of the 9th Pacific Tuna Forum in Nadi, in October last year, reaffirmed Fiji’s commitment to sustainable fisheries and ocean management.”
The Minister said the aquaculture sector will play a key role in food security and economic growth.
“The Aquaculture Development Plan guides our commitment to transforming Fiji’s aquaculture sector into a profitable, sustainable, and environmentally friendly activity.”
She said species such as giant clams, tiger prawns, shrimp and tilapia are being developed for large-scale production.
“Our aim is to reduce reliance on imports and scale domestic production to meet the local demand.”
Bainivalu said sustainable fisheries management is guided by science.
“The Ministry of Fisheries’ core role is to ensure the sustainable management of fish stocks and associated marine ecosystems within our waters.”
She said Fiji supported the adoption of the South Pacific Albacore management procedure at the Western and Central Pacific Fisheries Commission meeting in Manilalast year.
“A monumental achievement for Fiji, as this protects our domestic long-line industry and secures the long-term viability of the fishery.”
The government is also progressing its commitment to protect 30 percent of marine areas by 2030.
“The Ministry is progressing Fiji’s commitment to conserve and sustainably manage 30 percent of our marine areas by 2030.”
Turning to forestry, Bainivalu said forests remain vital for the environment and the economy.
“Forestry remains fundamental to our ecological integrity, rural incomes and climate commitments. Approximately 60 percent of Fiji’s land area remains under forest cover.”
She said the forestry sector contributes more than FJD$80 million(US$40 million) annually in export revenue.
“Our forests serve as carbon sinks, biodiversity reservoirs, watershed protectors and economic assets.”
Bainivalu also highlighted the passage of the Forestry Act 2025.
“A major milestone in strengthening the governance framework of the forestry sector was the passing of the Forestry Act 2025, enacted by Parliament on 1 December 2025.”
She said the law strengthens compliance, licensing and sustainability safeguards.
“These reforms provide regulatory certainty for investors while safeguarding landowner rights and environmental integrity.”
The Minister also confirmed that the Mahogany Bill has been tabled in Parliament.
“This Bill seeks to strengthen the governance, transparency and long-term commercial viability of Fiji’s mahogany industry.”
Bainivalu said forestry development must benefit landowners and rural communities.
“A core tenet of forestry governance is that landowners remain central beneficiaries of sectoral progress.”
She said the ministry is also promoting non-timber forest products such as medicinal plants, honey, bamboo and essential oils to diversify rural incomes.
The Minister said women and youth are playing a growing role in the forestry sector.
“Our data shows that technical training for women and youth has increased significantly over the years.”
She said women-led nurseries account for nearly half of seedling suppliers.
“Over the past three years, women-led nurseries have accounted for an average of 46 per cent of total seedling suppliers.”
Bainivalu said Fiji will continue to promote cooperation in ocean governance across the Pacific.
“Our vision for Fiji’s ocean aligns with the concept of a Pacific ‘Ocean of Peace’ — where cooperation prevails over conflict, and shared stewardship defines our regional identity.”
She reaffirmed the government’s commitment to sustainable resource management.
“His Excellency’s address was a call for unity, reform, and responsible stewardship. The Ministry of Fisheries and the Ministry of Forestry stands ready to contribute decisively to that national agenda through strong governance, inclusive growth, sustainable management, and collaborative development,” she said.
