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Fiji Offshore Fisheries Management and

Development Plan: A plan for tuna and other

pelagic fisheries.

2021– 2026

Contents ACRONYMS ............................................................................................................................................... 3

DEFINITIONS ............................................................................................................................................. 6

1. INTRODUCTION ................................................................................................................................... 8

1.1. Background ................................................................................................................................... 8

1.1.1. Guiding Principles .................................................................................................................... 8

1.1.2. Legal context .......................................................................................................................... 8

1.1.3. Structure of the Plan ............................................................................................................ 9

1.2. Scope ............................................................................................................................................... 9

1.3. Purpose ............................................................................................................................................. 10

1.4. Goal ................................................................................................................................................ 10

1.5. Authorities and Roles.................................................................................................................... 10

1.5.1. Stakeholders and partner agencies ................................................................................... 10

1.6. Stakeholder Engagement ............................................................................................................. 11

1.7 Gender and Social Inclusiveness................................................................................................ 11

1.8. Commencement .............................................................................................................................. 12

1.9. Present State of the Fishery .................................................................................................... 12

2. TUNA MANAGEMENT ....................................................................................................................... 14

2.1. Objectives..................................................................................................................................... 14

2.2. Management Plan Activity Table ............................................................................................ 16

2.3. Management Arrangements .................................................................................................... 19

2.3.1. Establishing and Allocating Fishing Rights ................................................................ 19

2.3.2. Management limits ............................................................................................................. 19

2.3.4. Harvest Strategy .................................................................................................................. 20

2.3.5. By-catch management ....................................................................................................... 20

2.4. Licensing ...................................................................................................................................... 20

2.4.1. Licence applications .......................................................................................................... 20

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2.4.2. Fishing on the High Seas .................................................................................................. 20

2.5. Monitoring, Control, Surveillance and Enforcement ........................................................ 20

2.5.1. Key Documents ................................................................................................................... 20

2.5.2. Logbooks .............................................................................................................................. 21

2.5.3. E-Monitoring ......................................................................................................................... 21

2.5.4 E-Reporting .................................................................................................................................... 21

2.5.5. Observer programs ............................................................................................................ 22

2.5.6. Vessel Monitoring System (VMS) ................................................................................... 22

2.5.7. Transhipment ....................................................................................................................... 22

2.5.8. Port State Measures ........................................................................................................... 23

2.5.9. Bunkering .............................................................................................................................. 23

2.5.10. Catch Traceability Scheme ............................................................................................ 23

2.5.12. Sea and aerial Surveillance ............................................................................................ 23

2.6. Penalties ........................................................................................................................................... 24

2.7. Monitoring and Evaluation of the Plan ..................................................................................... 24

2.8. Review of the Plan ......................................................................................................................... 24

3. TUNA INDUSTRY DEVELOPMENT ................................................................................................ 24

3.1. Background ................................................................................................................................. 24

3.1. Objectives..................................................................................................................................... 25

3.1.1. Development Plan Activity Table .................................................................................... 26

Appendix 1 Implementation Plan.................................................................................................. 29

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ACRONYMS

SP ALB – South Pacific albacore tuna (Thunnus alalunga)

ABNJ - Areas beyond National Jurisdiction

AW – Archipelagic waters

BET – Bigeye tuna (Thunnus obesus)

CA – Competent Authority

CMMs – Conservation and Management Measures

CPUE – Catch per Unit Effort

CTA – Cape Town Agreement

DWFN – Distant-Water Fishing Nations

EEZ – Exclusive Economic Zone

EMS - Electronic Monitoring system

EM – Electronic Monitoring

ER – Electronic Reporting

EU – European Union

FAD – Fish Aggregating Device

FAO – United Nations Food and Agriculture Organisation

FFA – Pacific Islands Forum Fisheries Agency

FFAC - Fiji Fisheries Advisory Council

FFC - Forum Fisheries Committee

FFW - Fiji Fisheries Waters

FNGP - Fiji National Gender Policy (2014),

FNU - Fiji National University

FFIA – Fiji Fishing Industry Association

FPCL - Fiji Ports Corporation Limited

GEF - Global Environment Facility

GDP – Gross Domestic Product

HCRs – Harvest Control Rules

HTAC – Hybrid total allowable catch

ICCAT – International Commission for the Conservation of Atlantic Tunas

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IATTC - Inter-American Tropical Tuna Commission

IMS – Information Management System

IFIMS – Integrated Fisheries Information Management System

IPOA - International Plan of Action

IUU - Illegal, Unreported and Unregulated fishing

INGO – International non-government organisation

IW – Internal Waters

MCS – Monitoring, control and surveillance

MoF – Ministry of Fisheries

MSC – Marine Stewardship Council

MTC – Minimum terms and Conditions

MoU - Memorandum of Understanding

MTU – Mobile transceiver unit

NFP - National Fisheries Policy

NCCP - National Climate Change Policy (2018-2030)

NPOA – National Plan of Action

NGO – Non government organisation

NZ MPI – New Zealand Ministry of Primary Industries

OCS - Operational Compliance Strategy

OFP – SPC Oceanic Fisheries Programme

OFMD - Offshore Fisheries Management Division

OFMA - Offshore Fisheries Management Act 2012

OFMR - Offshore Fisheries Management Regulations 2014

OP – MoF Operational Plan (2019 – 2020)

PAFCO – Pacific Fishing Company

PSMA – Agreement on Port State Measures

PNA – Parties to the Nauru Agreement

QUADs – Quadrilateral Security Dialogue

RFMO – Regional Fisheries Management Organization

RFV - Record of Fishing Vessels

ROP – Regional Observer Programme

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SC-SPTBF – FFC Subcommittee for South Pacific Tuna and Billfish Fisheries

SDP - MoF Strategic Development Plan (2019-2029)

SIDs - Small Island Developing States

SOP – Standard Operating Procedures

SPC – Secretariat of the Pacific Community

SPRFMO – South Pacific Regional Fisheries Management Organization

STCW-f - The International Convention on Standards of Training, Certification and

Watch keeping for Fishing Vessel Personnel.

OFMDP – Offshore Fisheries Management and Development Plan

TAC – Total allowable catch

TKA – Tokelau Arrangement

TUFMAN 2 – Tuna Fisheries Management Database version 2

UNCLOS – United Nations Convention for the Law of the Sea

UNFSA – United Nations Fish Stock Agreement

USP - University of the South Pacific

UST - US Multilateral Treaty

VMS – Vessel monitoring system

WCPFC – Western and Central Pacific Fisheries Commission

WCPO – Western Central Pacific Ocean

YFT – Yellowfin tuna (Thunnus albacares)

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DEFINITIONS Archipelagic waters– all areas of sea contained within the baselines established under

section 4 of the Marine Spaces Act (Cap 158A).

Bycatch – non-targeted species or unwanted fish caught during a commercial fishing

activity. Bunkering – the carriage and transfer of fuel from one vessel to another by any means

and “bunker” have a corresponding meaning. Catch Per Unit Effort (CPUE) - indirect measure of abundance of target species.

Chartered fishing vessel - for the purposes of the Act, means a fishing vessel

bareboat or demise chartered by a Fiji citizen or company incorporated in Fiji. Endangered Species – Species at risk of extinction or when the chance of the survival

in the wild is unlikely unless action is taken to conserve that population. Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) - comprises all areas of sea having, as their

innermost limits the outermost limits of the territorial seas, and, as their outermost limits, a line drawn seaward from the baselines every point of which is at a distance of 200 miles from the nearest point of the appropriate baseline. Fiji vessel - means a vessel which is duly registered under the Marine Act, and

includes a vessel chartered by a Fiji national. Fish - any aquatic plant or animal, whether piscine or not, and includes any oyster or

other mollusc, crustacean, coral, sponge, holothurian (beche-de-mer), or other echinoderm, turtle and marine mammal, and includes their eggs, spawn, spat and all juvenile stages and any of their parts. Fish aggregating device (FAD) - any living or non-living object or group of objects, of

any size, that has or has not been deployed, including but not limited to buoys, floats, netting, webbing, plastics, bamboo, logs and large fish floating on or near the surface of the water. Fiji Fisheries Advisory Council (FFAC) – The function of the Council is to advise the

Minister on policy matters relating to fisheries conservation, management, development and sustainable use. Fiji Fisheries Waters (FFW) - means the internal waters, the archipelagic waters, the

territorial sea, the exclusive economic zone and any other waters over which Fiji exercises its sovereignty or sovereign rights and includes the bed and subsoil underlying those waters. Harvest strategies - A harvest strategy is a framework that specifies the pre-

determined management actions in a fishery for defined species (at the stock or management unit level) necessary to achieve agreed biological, ecological, economic and/or social management objectives.

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Port State Measures - The Agreement on Port State Measures (PSMA) is the first

binding international agreement to specifically target illegal, unreported and unregulated (IUU) fishing. Its objective is to prevent, deter and eliminate IUU fishing by preventing vessels engaged in IUU fishing from using ports and landing their catches. Provisioning – Includes the movement on to and off the fishing vessel of crew, engine

parts, rations, bait, fishing gear and other goods. Stakeholder - Any person or group (including governmental and non-governmental

Institutions, traditional communities, universities, research institutions, development agencies and banks, donors, etc.) With an interest or claim (whether stated or implied) which has the potential of being impacted by or having an impact on a given project and its objectives. Stock assessment- collection and modelling of wide biological and fisheries data to

Determine the current status of the stock and how the fishing pressure will affect the stock in future. Stock Biomass –the total weight of the fish in a given stock. Occasionally, rather than

total biomass, scientists will refer to the spawning stock biomass (SSB), the total weight of the reproductively mature individuals in the stock. Sustainability- maintain the stock at a level that does not lead to long term decline.

Target Reference Point - describe the intended outcome for the stock and are

generally associated with management objectives. Territorial Sea (TS) - The territorial seas of Fiji comprise all areas of sea having as their

innermost limits the baselines established under the provisions of this section and as their outermost limits a line measured seaward from those baselines every point of which is at a distance of twelve miles from the nearest point of the baselines. Transhipment – means the transfer of any or all of the fish onboard a vessel onto

another vessel, either directly or by off-loading the fish from the vessel onto the shore and then immediately onto another vessel, for the purposes of transporting that fish elsewhere and does not include net sharing. Vessel monitoring system - any system to monitor the position and activities of fishing

vessels for the purpose of effective management of fisheries. WCPFC SPA Roadmap - Roadmap to implement the elements needed for the effective

conservation and management for south Pacific albacore at the WCPFC level.

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1. INTRODUCTION

1.1. Background

Fiji’s tuna fisheries are an important source of income and as well as food security for

the citizens of Fiji. The total contribution to GDP from all tuna longline related sectors in

2017 was FJ$104.5 million1, and for the three years 2015-2017, the domestic tuna

longline fleet fishing in national waters contributed a total of over 5 million kilograms of

tuna and other pelagic fish for local consumption and processing plants1.

Given this importance to Fiji’s economy, it is imperative that Fiji’s fisheries resources are

harvested in a manner that ensures their long-term sustainability and optimum

utilisation. This Offshore Fisheries Management and Development Plan (OFMDP)

seeks to achieve these dual aims by guiding the management and sustainable

development of the offshore fisheries resources in accordance with National goals and

international obligations.

Fiji’s offshore tuna fisheries is predominately a longline fishery targeting South Pacific

Albacore (SP ALB), other key tuna species caught are Yellowfin (YFT) and Bigeye

(BET). Other species of billfish and tuna like species are also a valuable component of

the fishery. As such over the last 5 years, Fiji have explored the viability of developing

these other pelagic species into industrial scale fisheries.

This OFMDP is consistent with Strategic Development Plan (SDP 2019 – 2029), the

draft National Fisheries Policy (NFP), National Climate Change Policy (NCCP 2018-

2030), draft National Oceans Policy, as well as the Offshore Fisheries Management Act

2012 (OFMA) and the Offshore Fisheries Management Regulations 2014 (OFMR).

1.1.1. Guiding Principles

This OFMDP reflect the principles and measures outlined in Part 2, section 6 of the

Offshore Fisheries Management Act 2012.

1.1.2. Legal context

The OFMDP is prepared in accordance with the provisions of the OFMA 2012 and the

OFMR 2014. Section 17 of the OFMA specifies that a Fisheries Management Plan is

required for a declared Fishery and sections 18 and 19 specifies how the management

1 Skirtun, M and Reid, C. (2019), An assessment of economic contributions from tuna longline fishery-related sectors to national Gross Domestic Product, Forum Fisheries Agency

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plan will come into effect and be amended or revoked. This OFMDP is intended to

satisfy this legal requirement.

Fiji also has obligations under the Western and Central Pacific Fisheries Commission

Convention (WCPFC), the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea

(UNCLOS), and the United Nations Fish Stocks Agreement (UNFSA) to implement

regional management decisions to preserve the sustainability of the straddling fish

stocks. Fiji is signatory to the Cape Town Agreement (CTA) which is expected to enter

into force in 2022.

1.1.3. Structure of the Plan

The OFMDP is composed of two sections:

-Part 1 covers all aspects of fisheries management

-Part 2 covers the economic and development aspects of the fishing Industry

1.1.4. Newly Declared Fisheries

All newly declared pelagic fishery gazetted under Section 16 of the OFMA, shall have a

description of the fishery; special conditions of licence, fishery restrictions and gazzetal

notices annexed to this document.

1.2. Scope

This OFMDP applies to all Fiji Fisheries Waters’ (FFW) internal waters (IW), the

archipelagic waters (AW), the territorial sea (TS) and the Exclusive Economic Zone

(EEZ).

The OFMDP focuses on Fiji’s longline fishery and includes vessels licenced to fish in

Fiji’s waters as well as Fiji flagged vessel authorized to fish in the High Seas. The

OFMDP extends to fishing vessels licenced through charters, but does not include

vessels undertaking sport, recreational and scientific research. Although artisanal,

subsistence and small scale fishers are not subject to the management measures in this

plan, however their rights and interests are protected under this OFMDP.

This OFMDP also includes all commercial tuna fishing related activities, such as

­ Transhipping;

­ Landing;

­ Bunkering;

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­ Provisioning and

­ All other services relating to the tuna fishery, including on-shore processing and

provision of port facilities.

The key species covered under this OFMDP include:

South Pacific albacore (Thunnus alalunga)

Yellowfin tuna (Thunnus albacares)

Bigeye tuna (Thunnus obesus)

Key non-target billfish, mahi mahi and tuna-like species designated under Section 16

of the OFMA 2012 with gazzettals appended in Annex 1 of this plan.The OFMDP

also covers endangered species and includes measures to minimise impacts on

these animals.

1.3. Purpose

The purpose of this Plan is to guide the management and sustainable development of

the offshore fisheries to ensure the long-term sustainability of these resources for the

benefit of the people of Fiji.

1.4. Goal

This Plan has the following goals:

Fiji’s offshore fisheries resources are harvested in a manner that ensures their

long-term sustainability and optimum utilisation.

Ensure broad participation by Fiji nationals in activities related to the sustainable

use of fisheries resources.

Ensure that the interests and rights of artisanal, subsistence fishers and local

communities are considered in all management decisions.

Ensure that good governance, management and compliance systems are in

place.

Initiate climate change adaptation, mitigation and resilience strategies.

1.5. Authorities and Roles The Offshore Fisheries Management Division (OFMD) within the Ministry of Fisheries

(MoF) will be responsible for implementing this OFMDP with the assistance of other

government ministries and external agencies and partners listed below.

1.5.1. Stakeholders and partner agencies

Fiji Fishing Industry Association (FFIA)

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Fiji Ports Corporation Limited (FPCL)

Fiji Revenue and Custom Service (FRCS)

Fiji Bureau of Statistics (FBOS)

Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (ODPP)

Ministry of Local Government, Urban Development, Housing & Environment

Ministry of Industry, Trade and Tourism (MoITT)

Ministry of Health (MoH)

Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MoFA)

Ministry of Employment Productivity and Industrial Relations (MoEPIR)

Ministry of Infrastructure and Transport (MoI&T)

Solicitor General’s Office (SGO)

Investment Fiji (IF)

Maritime Safety Authority of Fiji (MSAF)

Regional Fisheries Organizations (FFA, MSG, SC-SPTBF, SPC, WCPFC, FAO,

USP and FNU)

Ministry of iTaukei Affairs (MoiTA)

Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs (such as World Wildlife Fund (WWF))

Private Sector Agencies

Development Banks

PAFCO and other approved offshore fish processing establishments

Other approved offshore fishing companies that are not members of FFIA.

Fiji Maritime Academy (FMA)

Fiji Navy (RFNS)

Ministry of Economy (MoE)

1.6. Stakeholder Engagement

Engage with the commercial tuna industry on the implementation of this plan

through regular consultations with the FFIA and other Fishing and processing

companies or through memberships in committees’ setup by the permanent

secretary such as the Fiji Fisheries Advisory Council (FFAC).

Engage with relevant Government and non-Government agencies to conduct

awareness and outreach programs for artisanal and subsistence fishers to

ensure an understanding of the management and regulations pertaining to Fiji’s

tuna fisheries.

Engage with NGO’s that are currently undertaking projects to make

advancements in the tuna fisheries

Engage widely with broader community at roadshows, primary industry shows

and through regular posts on MoF’s website, social media, radio shows and

media releases.

1.7 Gender and Social Inclusiveness

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A study of gender issues in the tuna fisheries for Fiji, Kiribati and PNG, by Sullivan et al.

(2008)2, found a number of common issues that prevented women gaining maximum

benefit from the tuna fisheries. These included among other things, women not being

able to access public or private funding for spin-off business opportunities from the tuna

industries and many of the social problems associated with the tuna fisheries fall

disproportionately on women. The study also revealed that education and training are

is crucial to enhance women’s opportunities within the tuna industry.

In alignment with Fiji National Gender Policy (FNGP 2014), this plan encourages

mainstreaming of gender equity and equality in partnership with other line agencies.

1.8. Commencement

This OFMDP comes into effect on the date of its publication in the Gazette.

1.9. Present State of the Fishery

Fiji’s offshore tuna fishery sector is primarily a longline fishery targeting SP ALB which

accounted for 62 % of the catch in 2018. Other key tuna species caught are YFT and

BET. There is also an assortment of by-catch species such as billfish and mahi-mahi.

Full details of catch trends can be found in Fiji’s annual report to WCPFC.3

Over the past four years (2014-2018), the total annual catch for Fiji’s national longline

fleet has fluctuated between 13,585 to 17,933mt. The highest catch recorded was in

2017, while the 2018 total catch of 14, 372mt was closer to the historical average.

Figure 1. Annual catch [Metric tonnes] trends for Albacore, Bigeye and Yellow fin

2 Sullivan N., Ram-Bidesi V. 2008. Gender issues in tuna fisheries: case studies in Papua New Guinea, Fiji and Kiribati. Honiara, Solomon Islands: Forum Fisheries Agency. FFA Report 08/14. 3 Annual report to the Commission Part 1: Information on fisheries, research and statistics. WCPFC-SC15-AR/CCM-07 (2019).

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Stock assessment undertaken by SPC shows that all four major tuna species in the

Western Central Pacific Ocean (WCPO) are not overfished, nor is overfishing occurring.

The Majuro Plot4 below depicts the relative status of the key tuna stocks against the

biological reference point (black lines) indicating that all remain above the Limit

Reference Point (LRP) of 20% of unfished biomass.

An interim Target Reference Point for SP ALB tuna of 56 % of spawning stock biomass

in the absence of fishing, was agreed in December 2018 at the WCPC15 meeting.

While economic conditions improved in recent years, the longevity of these

improvements is unlikely without the implementation of measures to reduce overall

effort/catch in the fishery.

In 2018 Fiji had 955 vessels in its national longline fleet. The licence cap of 60 vessels

authorised to fish in Fiji’s EEZ remained. Of these 60 vessels, 41 vessels fish solely in

Fiji’s EEZ, while 19 vessels fish in both the EEZ and High Seas. There were 26 national

vessels which only fish in the High Seas and the remaining 9 vessels fish in other

countries’ EEZs.

In 2018, seventy percent of fishing took place within Fiji’s waters and 30% in

international waters.

4 Tuna Fishery report card (2019) FFA in collaboration with SPC(https://www.ffa.int/node/1569) 5 Currently (2020) there are 90 vessels

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The national fleet structure for 2014-2018 is shown in the table below.

Fiji National Fleet are categorised as follows:

1. Less than 21m category – These vessels target the fresh sashimi market and

mainly use ice for preserving their catch. They predominantly fish within Fiji’s AW

and TS spending. Each fishing trip is typically one to two weeks.

2. 21m and less than 30m category –Vessels in this category use ice slurry and

freezers to preserve their catch. They mainly fish within Fiji’s EEZ and fishing

trips vary from three weeks to two months per trip. Fresh catches are usually

caught towards the end of the fishing trip.

3. Greater than 30 m category –Vessels within this category mainly fish within Fiji’s

EEZ and outside Fiji’s national jurisdiction, targeting SP ALB. They spend more

than three months on each trip and use freezers to preserve their catch.

2. FISHERIES MANAGEMENT

2.1. Objectives

The management objectives of this plan are to:

Sustainably manage Fiji’s offshore fisheries based on the best scientific information available.

Minimise bycatch and the impacts on endangered species

Pursue safeguards to minimise the potential environmental damage from harvesting activities.

Engage with artisanal, subsistence fishers, Industry and the wider community to ensure their participation in the management of the offshore fisheries

Support the effective management of this fishery and meet international obligations by collecting, analysing and sharing data (where appropriate) in a timely manner.

Undertake effective monitoring, control and surveillance measures to prevent, deter and eliminate IUU fishing.

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Identify potential impacts of climate change on the offshore fisheries and implement measures to mitigate against any potential negative impacts on the sector.

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2.2. Management Plan Activity Table

OBJECTIVE STRATEGY ACTIONS TIMELINE

1: Sustainably manage Fiji’s offshore fisheries on the best scientific information available.

1.1: Support WCPFC efforts to develop reference points and harvest strategies for key tuna species

1.1.1. Fiji actively engages in regional fisheries negotiations to establish reference points and harvest strategies for key tuna species 1.1.2. Effective participation at WCPFC through well

informed decisions on Fiji’s positions.

1.1.3. Fiji is Chair of the WCPFC SPA Roadmap Working Group

ongoing

1.2: Establish national measures to limit effort on key species.

1.2. Cap Fiji national longline fleet licence targeting tuna at 60 vessels or revised effort levels based on bio economic advice.

2025

1.2.1. Cap Fiji’s fleet licence targeting other pelagic species at set CPUE levels based on best scientific advice.

2025

1.3: Establish national catch limits on key tuna species based on scientific and economic assessment.

1.3. Current combined TAC for SP ALB, BET and YFT is 12,000mt. Of this 12,000mt, the TAC for SP ALB is 7, 294 mt.

2024

2: Minimise bycatch and the impacts on endangered species.

2.1: Adopt WCPFC measures for sharks,

seabirds and sea turtles.

2.1.1. Implement measures and ensure its compliance. December 2020

2.2: Promote the development and use of

environmentally safe and cost-effective

fishing gear and techniques.

2.2.1 Conduct hook-pod trials on seabirds and evaluate their

effectiveness.

2.2.2. iImplement the bycatch safe release guidelines for

sharks, seabirds and turtles.

September 2022

ongoing

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OBJECTIVE STRATEGY ACTIONS TIMELINE

3: Pursue safeguards to minimise the potential environmental damage from harvesting activities.

3.1: Adopt measures to reduce ghost fishing

and marine pollution from fishing vessels.

3.1. Incorporate these measures into licence conditions December 2021

4: Engage with

artisanal, subsistence

fishers, Industry and

the wider community

to ensure their

participation in the

management of the

tuna fisheries.

4.1: Undertake effective consultation and

communication with Industry, inshore

fishers and the wider community.

4.1.1. Conduct engagement through relevant Government

and non-Government agencies, fisheries advisory groups and

the wider community through stakeholder meetings.

4.1.2. Engage widely with community at roadshows and

primary industry shows.

4.1.3. Regular posts on MoF’s website, social media, radio

shows, and media releases.

4.1.4. Conduct awareness and outreach programs for

artisanal and subsistence fishers implemented.

Ongoing

5: Collect, analyse and

share data (where

appropriate) in a

timely manner to

support effective

management of this

fishery and meet

international

obligations.

5.1: Develop effective information

management systems.

5.1. Develop a national IMS to consolidate information in a

central data base.

2023

5.2. Provide timely information and analysis

through internal processes to assist the MoF

decision making processes and to meet

international reporting obligations.

5.2.1 Collect and analyse relevant data to assist decision

making and to meet international reporting obligations.

5.2.2 Prepare reports to assist with decision making and to

meet international reporting obligations within required

deadlines.

Annually

5.3. Sharing of data through Memorandum 5.3. Data shared in accordance with MoU. Ongoing

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OBJECTIVE STRATEGY ACTIONS TIMELINE

of Understanding (MoU)s with other Small

Island Developing States (SIDs)

6: Adopt effective

MCS measures to

prevent deter and

eliminate IUU fishing.

6.1: Undertake active MCS to ensure that

commercial vessels comply with Fisheries

laws.

6.1.1 Continuous monitoring is undertaken on all commercial

vessels.

6.1.2. Joint Patrols undertaken by MoF and RFNS.

Ongoing

6.2: Review and update Standard Operating

Procedures (SOP)s to align with Ministry’s

SDP and OP.

6.2. SOPs reviewed and updated as required Ongoing

6.3: Strengthen National Observer

Programme

6.3. Observer safety provisions strengthened and

implemented.

Ongoing

7: Identify potential

impacts of climate

change on the tuna

fisheries and

implement measures

to mitigate against

any potential negative

impacts on the tuna

sector.

7.1: Work with SPC to undertake national analysis of the potential impacts of climate change on Fiji’s tuna fishery.

7.1. National analysis of Fiji’s tuna fishery undertaken. Any

negative effects identified and mitigated.

Ongoing

7.2: Work with regional organisations to

conduct economic research and analysis on

the means to maximise returns from the

tuna fishery should catches decline due to

climate change

7.2: Economic research and analysis undertaken on national

climate change adaptions for fishing vessels and

recommendations assessed and implemented.

May 2022

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2.3. Management Arrangements

2.3.1. Establishing and Allocating Fishing Rights

Fiji longline fishery is currently managed by a combination of effort and catch controls in

its National waters.

The OFMA 2012 (Part 2, section104, sub section 3) outlines that the Minister may

provide for the establishment of a regime of statutory fishing rights, and in doing so may

make Regulations on the following matters:

(a) the method of applying for a right of access or quota share;

(b) the identification of criteria for determining those eligible to apply for a statutory fishing right;

(c) the nature of a statutory fishing right;

(d) the duration of a statutory fishing right;

(e) the criteria for adjusting the fishing rights allocated from one period to another

due to fluctuations in the availability of the stocks to which the rights relate;

(f) determining whether the statutory fishing right shall be inheritable, leasable,

saleable, or divisible;

(h) the number of rights or quota any person or company may hold at any one

time;

(i) the method of calculation of any quota (which may be expressed as part of

the Total Allowable Catch or the TAC for a particular species); and

(j) the circumstances in which a statutory fishing right may lapse, be reduced, be

suspended, be reallocated or cancelled.

2.3.2. Management limits

Fiji has capped the number of longline licences targeting tuna at 60 for the EEZ. In

addition, there are 12 longline licences for AW and TS for vessels undertaking

exploratory fishing.

There is a combined overall TAC for SP ALB, BET and YFT of 12,000 metric tonnes for

the EEZ, of this 12,000mt, there is a provisional TAC of 7,294 metric tonnes for SP

ALB6

These limits were formulated on the basis of current state of tuna stocks, bio-economic

assessment, extensive stakeholder consultations and consideration of development

opportunities in fisheries sectors.

6 Fiji considers its provision of the SP ALB TAC as an immediate and short-medium term management limit purposely to meet its sub-regional obligations (a proposal under the now dormant Tokelau Arrangement), and in accordance with the Principles and Measures Section 6 (a), (b) and (c) of the OFMA (2012)

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2.3.4. Harvest Strategy

The MoF supports WCPFC efforts to develop reference points and harvest strategies

for key tuna species in the WCPO. In accordance with actions proposed under the

Regional Longline Strategy.

2.3.5. By-catch management

Part 2, section 5 of the Offshore Fisheries Management Regulations 2014, outlines the

restrictions relating to endangered or protected species and Schedule 2B defines what

species are endangered or protected.

Ministry of Fisheries is currently drafting National Plans of Action which draw on CMM,

FAO IPOA and Regional Plan of Actions and related technical guidelines to manage

incidental catch of sharks, turtles and seabirds.

2.4. Licensing

2.4.1. Licence applications

All applications for licenses will be processed in accordance with licensing guidelines

(Attachment 2). These applications are assessed on a number of factors, including

compliance rating, onshore investments, financial records, local crewing levels. Further

details on the criteria used to assess licence applications can be found in attachment 3.

Licence fees are outlined in OFMR 2014 Schedule 7.

The Permanent Secretary may make, amend or revoke allocations for any fishing

activity, in accordance with the provisions of the OFMA 2012 and other legislation.

The guidelines will be subject to annual review considering advice from FFAC.

2.4.2. Fishing on the High Seas

Over the past decade Fiji’s domestic fleet has expanded its operations into the high

seas. This had led to a need to strengthen national fisheries laws to mirror international

obligations and meet Fiji’s flag state responsibilities.

Fiji has also developed a national strategy for fishing vessels operating in Areas Beyond

National Jurisdiction (ABNJ) (2014), which outlines a systematic approach for

implementing the administrative aspects of Fiji fishing vessels operating in ABNJ.

Fiji vessels authorised to fish on the high seas will be monitored to ensure compliance

to National and International laws.

All Fiji flagged vessels licensed or authorised to fish by Fiji, are to land all their catches

in Fiji designated ports, unless subject to third country licencing requirements.

2.5. Monitoring, Control, Surveillance and Enforcement

2.5.1. Key Documents

The draft Operational Compliance Strategy (OCS) provides overarching guidance and coordination of fishery compliance activities undertaken by Fiji’s MoF and partner regulatory agencies.

21

The other key document is Fiji’s National Plan of Action to prevent, deter and eliminate

IUU.

2.5.2. Logbooks

It is a licence requirement that the Master of a Fishing vessel holding a tuna licence

issued by Fiji MoF adheres to the following reporting conditions as outlined in section 23

of the OFMR 2014.

The operator of a licensed or authorised fishing vessel shall-

(a) Duly complete in the English language, daily records or reports in the form of all-

(i) catch: and

(ii) bycatch by species

Taken in Fiji waters and the high seas;

(b) Ensure that records of all catch and by-catch transhipped or landed are true,

complete and accurate and provided to the Director;

(c) Provide to the Director on the approved forms a final report within 2 days of the

completion of a trip.

2.5.3. E-Monitoring

Fiji has completed a 3-year trial on the use of Electronic Monitoring system (EMS), that

was installed on 50 of its long line vessels under it national fleet. This joint project with

the United Nations for Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO) utilized the Global

Environmental Fund (GEF). The system is made up of a 3-camera system that capture

fishing activities on a 24/7-time scale.

At the completion of the project, out of the 780 EM trips a total of 344 trips have been analysed. The average rate of analysis is currently 2 set/haul per day. The EMS programmeshall work in collaboration with the Fiji Observer program and will not replace it. Presently, there needs to be consideration for the Fiji Observer program and the cost of the current EMS equipment. As the tool is being developed to regional standards and is quite costly, the preference is to remain with the current 50 EMS installed vessel in Fiji with observers working more on non-EMS installed vessels and proposed MSC trips for validation purposes. The ultimate aim for the regional approach should be the implementation of either EMS or a stronger observer presence on Distant Water Fishing Nation vessels in the High Seas. The coverage levels that would be the most efficient will need the guidance of the

Science provider (SPC) as it will need to be the most representative. Whilst the

preference is 10% coverage of EMS trips and 20% wet observer coverage is the current

aim for Fiji, the real aim would be the spread across the fleet.

2.5.4 E-Reporting

Fiji is engaged with SPC on the E-reporting (ER) trial [On-Board App] and is currently

facilitated on 5 Fiji National Fleet vessels. This trial is also being facilitated with the Fiji

Observer programme using the Onshore App in its port sampling initiative. These data

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22

sets are uploaded into the SPC’s TUFMAN 2 database and can be easily extracted

using the SPC DORADO web-reporting tool.

ER contributes to better control of fishing activities, more accurate stock assessment

and sustainable management of marine resources.

The plan is for all Fiji Flagged vessels to adopt ER in the future. It will ensure

consistency in reporting and the paperless submission of real time data will improve

data quality.

2.5.5. Observer programmes

Fiji has both National and Regional Observer Programmes. The national observers are

placed only on domestic vessels that operate exclusively in Fiji’s waters. Regional

observers work on Fijian vessels fishing outside national waters and on other flagged

vessels. In 2018 Fiji National Observer coverage was 32%. Fiji also contributes

observers to sub-regional observer programs such as the US Multilateral Treaty (UST).

There are currently 8 national observers, 37 regional observers and 11 de-briefers, 5

de-briefer assessors, 1 trainer, 1 trainer Assessor, 3 National and 3 Regional – cross

endorsement [(Inter-American Tropical Tuna Commission) IATTC / WCPFC].

There are 34 trained Marine Stewardship Certification (MSC) Observers of which 23 are

active.

For the EM program there are 3 National Observers and 7 regional observers, 4

electronic reporting Observers.

At present, the aim of the Fiji observer program is to maintain its current observer

numbers but is moving to upscale them in the field of Debriefer to observer ratios in

addition to training more Assessors and Trainers etc. under the Pacific Islands Regional

Fisheries Observer (PIRFO) certification process. There is presently a need to upscale

the observers also to ensure that they are able to work on MSC vessels, trawlers and

more so, under the WCPFC Cross Endorsement initiative whilst maintaining a presence

on the purse seiner fishing fleet.

2.5.6. Vessel Monitoring System (VMS)

It is a requirement under section 74 of the OFMA (2012) that an approved Mobile

Transceiver Unit (MTU) is installed, maintained and operating at all times while in Fiji’s

fisheries waters and beyond Fiji’s waters in accordance with fishing licence conditions.

2.5.7. Transhipment

Under section 34 of the OFMR 2014, a vessel may not tranship at sea except in a port

authorised by the Director to an authorised carrier vessel which is in good standing on

the Regional Register. As part of their licence conditions, Fiji vessels cannot tranship on

the high seas and may only tranship in Levuka, Suva and Lautoka.

Transhipping in Fiji waters shall only be authorised for Fiji fishing vessels transhipping

fresh fish, and with an observer on board.

The notification process and obligations for operators intending to tranship are outlined

in section 34 of the OFMR 2014.

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The operator of a vessel intending to conduct Transhipment must give 72 hours’ notice

of their intent to Tranship and must provide the required details in the form set out in

Schedule 6I.

2.5.8. Port State Measures

Port State Measures are one of the MCS tools used to combat illegal fishing. In

February 2019, Fiji deposited the instrument of accession to the FAO Agreement on

Port State Measures (PSMA), thereby committing to comply with this binding

international agreement to prevent IUU fishing. By preventing vessels engaged in IUU

fishing from using ports and landing their catch, fishery products derived from IUU

activities are prevented from reaching national and international markets and the

incentives to engage in IUU activities are reduced.

Fiji has obligations under WCPFC 2017-02 to ensure that vessels coming into its ports

comply with regional Port State Measures. Section 76 of the OFMA 2012 and sections

42-49 of the OFMR 2014, outlines national port state controls.

2.5.9. Bunkering

Section 35 of the OFMR 2014 states that bunkering may only occur if authorized by the

Director and with an authorised bunker vessel which is in good standing on the

Regional Register. The operator of a vessel intending to conduct bunkering must give

72 hours’ notice of their intent to bunker and must provide the required details in the

form set out in Schedule 6J and provide full reports on the approved form to the

Director. The intention of these measures is to enable monitoring of bunkering

activities.

2.5.10. Catch Traceability Scheme

The introduction of catch certificates to accompany Fiji’s fish and fishery exports was

created in response to the European Union's IUU fishing regulation. It requires that fish

exports to the EU be accompanied by a catch certificate validated by the competent

authority in the country of origin.

The catch traceability scheme was established in 2012, and also responds to other

international catch certification requirements as they arise. An example of this is the

ICCAT Statistical Document, where Fiji, as the flag State, is required to validate all

catch information provided by the exporter in the certificate.

2.5.11. Boarding and Inspections

Fiji as a Flag State and Port State ratified PSMA to specifically target IUU fishing. This

is conducted through thorough boarding and Inspection of vessels arriving into Fiji’s

designated ports. One hundred percent boarding and inspection is conducted on fishing

vessels coming from outside Fiji Fisheries Waters.

Regulation 43 and 44 of the OFMR 2014 clearly stipulates boarding and Inspection

steps and procedures of foreign and domestic vessels arrival into port.

2.5.12. Sea and aerial Surveillance

The Fiji navy is responsible for undertaking national marine surveillance and

enforcement in collaboration with the MoF. Regional scale operations are carried out in

24

collaboration with the QUADs (USA/NZ/AUS/FR). These regional exercises involve

member countries under the FFA membership and cover three major operations such

as the Operation Kurukuru, Island Chief and Tui Moana, which have an aerial

surveillance component. In addition, FFA provides aerial surveillance upon requests

from the government of Fiji.

During 2019, two patrol boats were engaged in sea surveillance for a period of 120

patrol day.

2.6. Penalties Schedule 11 of the OFMR 2014 outlines a list of offences and the associated fixed

penalties as well as the section or regulation to which the offence applies.

2.7. Monitoring and Evaluation of the Plan The Implementation Plan (Appendix 1) outlines the key activities in the OFMDP and

their associated times lines and status.

2.8. Review of the Plan The OFMDP is reviewed on an annual basis by the OFMD on behalf of the Director of

Fisheries. The results of this review will be communicated to the senior executives of

the Ministry.

A mid-term review will be conducted in year 3 of the OFMDP and a report outlining the

results of this review will be provided in an information paper to Cabinet.

3. TUNA INDUSTRY DEVELOPMENT

3.1. Background

The fisheries industry is the third largest natural resource based sector in the Fijian

economy, contributing around 1.8 percent to GDP and 7.0 percent of Fiji’s total export

earnings. The government policy towards the fisheries sector has largely been focused

on encouraging private sector investment, providing regulatory and resource-

management functions and adherence to regional and international commitments.

The main commercial tuna species include high value BET and YFT and lower valued

ALB. The high value commodities that are largely destined for the Japanese and USA

market in the form of fresh and chilled tuna (sashimi market) and loin fillets. Frozen ALB

are generally sold to local cannery or sent to PagoPago, American Samoa.

In 2018, a total of 12,798 mt of tuna was unloaded. 10,819 was processed and exported

with ALB products making a total of 72% [7,764mt] of Fiji’s total exports. BET tuna at

5% [590 mt] and YFT tuna products at 16% [1,741mt] with other species making up the

last 7% [724 mt]; whilst1, 979 mt was sold locally. Tuna like non-target species

continue to be sold at local processor outlets with a portion sold as exports where the

market is available.

The offshore fishery will continue to be a major source of economic value. Priorities for

Offshore Fisheries under the SDP include having a sustainable and profitable tuna

25

industry, developing a regional hub for processing tuna and having a sustainable market

for bycatch from the longline fishery.7

3.1. Objectives

The development objectives of this plan are:

Promote growth in Onshore and Offshore fisheries developments thereby

maximising long-term economic and social benefits that sustain livelihood of local

populations.

Encourage investment and employment opportunities for Fijians in fisheries

sector. Ensure broad participation by Fijians in activities related to the

sustainable use of fisheries resources.

The Development Objectives will be addressed via the strategies and accompanying

indicators as set out in Table 3.1.1.

7 Fiji Annual Part 1 2019 Report to the WCPFC Science Committee.

26

3.1.1. Development Plan Activity Table

OBJECTIVE STRATEGY ACTIONS Timelines

1: Promote

growth in

Onshore and

Offshore fisheries

developments

thereby

maximizing long-

term economic

and social

benefits that

sustain livelihood

of local

populations.

1.1: Give consideration to extending the zone set aside

for artisanal and small scale fishers.

1.2: Review of area closed to commercial fishing

vessels undertaken

2024

1.3: Provide ongoing regular training and auditing to

ensure Fiji Competent Authority (CA-IUU) remains

active and compliant.8

1.3: Regular training and auditing undertaken

Ongoing

1.4: Introduce digital traceability systems to enhance

traceability and catch documentation.

1.5: Expand MSC certification to the entire Fiji domestic

longline fleet.

1.4: Assessment of digital traceability options

undertaken and implemented to improve

traceability and catch documentation.

1.5: Entire Fiji longline fleet is MSC certified.

2024

2. Encourage

investment and

employment

opportunities for

Fiji citizens in

fisheries sector.

Ensure broad

participation by

2.1: Review the current fisheries investment strategy

and update where required.

2.1: Investment strategy reviewed and updated. 2022

2.2: Review fees including transhipments in order to

entice investors and fishing boats back and regularly

use Fiji designated ports.

2.2: Fees reviewed and new fee schedule

implemented.

2021

2.3 Establish Fiji as a processing hub 2.3: Strategy to establish processing hub

developed and implemented.

2024

8 The Ministry of Health is responsible for the operation of the Seafood Safety CA

27

OBJECTIVE STRATEGY ACTIONS Timelines

Fiji citizens in

activities related to

the sustainable use

of fisheries

resources.

2.4Fish supply to Fiji processing plants increased

through agreements with neighbouring States to have

their licensed vessels supply plants.

2.4: Agreements negotiated including provisions

for Fiji to assist with monitoring vessels landing

catch in Fiji, including port inspections and catch

traceability.

2024

2.5: Provide incentives to both fishers and processors

to encourage

landing of whole fish for local

processing and downstream value addition.

2.5: Incentives identified and volume

of fish processed in Fiji increased.

2023

2.6: Develop a specialised fisheries course for the local

fishing industry in accordance with the requirements

of The International Convention on Standards of

Training, Certification and Watch keeping for Fishing

Vessel Personnel (STCW-f).

2.6: Specialised fisheries course established at the

FMA, including established career paths for fishing

crew.

Ongoing

2.7: Upgrade existing port and wharf

Facilities and establish new facilities.

2.7: MoF to work with FPCL

and MoIT to

Develop and upgrade infrastructure.

2024

2.8: Improve working conditions for

crew on fishing vessels licensed by

Fiji.

2.8.1: Vessel safety is

maintained to agreed standards and

working conditions on-board fishing vessels meet

the requirements of the

Crewing MTC.

2.8.2: Licencing instruments contain prohibition of

forced and child labour on fishing vessels.

2020

2.9: Ensure vessels authorised by Fiji to operate

outside of the EEZ meet the minimum requirements

on the design, construction, equipment, and

inspection of fishing vessels set out in the CTA.

2.9: Fiji implements the provisions of the CTA. 2022

28

OBJECTIVE STRATEGY ACTIONS Timelines

2.10.Gender equity promoted in the workplace

throughout the fisheries sector in Fiji

2.10.1. MoF engages with the tuna industry to

identify opportunities to encourage and promote

women’s participation in this industry and to

increase the number of women in senior roles.

2.10.2 The MoF in partnership with other agencies

undertakes collection and analysis of data on

women in fisheries activities to inform policies,

programs and resources in this area.

2.10.3 Achievements of women in the fisheries

sector promoted through MoF media releases,

website and social media.

Ongoing

29

Appendix 1 Implementation Plan

Implementation steps

(What will be done? Tasks to

achieve the strategy))

Responsibilities

(Who will do it?)

Resources

(Funding / Timing /

People / Materials)

Timeline

(When will this be

completed?

Day/month/year)

Risks

(Potential delays / reasons

for not achieving step)

Administrative

Internal / external staff notified

(those consulted)

Senior Executives

OFMD Officials

FFA

Inshore and Offshore staff

will be notified on the

outcome of the plan.

October, 2020

Summary / brief explanation of

policy (staff / stakeholders)

Senior Executives

OFMD Officials

FFA

Summary report of the

plan is prepared and

presented to staff and

stakeholders.

October, 2020

Final copy of policy / plan with

Ministers signature

Senior Executives

OFMD Officials

OFMDP has to go through

cabinet approval

December 2020

Minister’s availability

Delay in tabling to Cabinet

for approval

Uploaded to website Media Liaison officer OFMDP readily accessible

on Ministerial website.

December, 2020

Public announcements /

awareness / education

Media Liaison Officer,

OFMD Officials

OFMD officials attends

radio talkback shows and

discusses the plan.

January, 2021 Time and funding to

arrange schedules for the

awareness programs.

30

TUNA MANAGEMENT

Objective 1: Ensure that management measures are based on the best scientific information available.

Strategy 1.1 Support WCPFC efforts to

develop reference points and

harvest strategies for key tuna

species

Senior Executives,

OFMD officials

SPC, FFA to assist Fiji in

leading the SP Albacore

Roadmap.

2020 Fiji will be chairing

the SP ALB WG

Achieving agreement on

HCRs across the board.

Strategy 1.2 Establish national measures to

limit effort on key tuna species

Senior Executives SPC, FFA will continue to

provide technical

assistance on future bio-

economic modelling

works, and facilitate

consultations with

stakeholders

2024 Fishing industry may not

agree with

recommendations on the

effort levels.

Strategy 1.3 Establish national catch limits

on key tuna species based on

scientific and economic

assessment

Senior Executives

SPC, FFA will continue to

provide technical

assistance on future bio-

economic modelling

works, and facilitate

consultations with

stakeholders

2024 Fishing industry may not

agree with

recommendations on the

catch limits of key tuna

species

Objective 2: Minimize bycatch and the impacts on endangered species.

Strategy 2.1 Develop National Plans of

Action for endangered species.

Senior Executives

OFMD Official

Research division

OFD to revise existing

draft NPOA for shark and

submit to senior

management and vetting

by SGOs and cabinet

October , 2020

Completion by December,

Delay getting vetted

through Government

approval process.

Delay in industry

31

approvals.

2020

consultation.

Fisheries Research to

revise existing draft NPOA

for turtles.

Fisheries research to work

on the draft and submit to

senior management and

vetting by SGOs and

cabinet approvals.

1st draft by June 2020

Completion by March 2021

Delay getting vetted

through Government

approval process.

Delay in industry

consultation.

cabinet approvals.

Strategy 2.1.2 Promote the development and

use of environmentally safe and

cost-effective fishing gear and

techniques.

OFMD Officials

Tuna Industry

Secure Funding

Identify the vessels for

the trial.

Funding obtained by

December 2020

Vessel secured March 2021

Implementation of gear

trials by June 2021

Completion of hook pod

trials by June 2023

Failure to identify a funding

partner.

Failure to secure a suitable

vessel.

Objective 3: Pursue safeguards to minimize the potential environmental damage from tuna harvesting activities.

Adopt measures to reduce

ghost fishing and marine

Senior Executives Incorporated into licence December 2020 Compliance to this licence

32

Strategy 3.1 pollution from fishing vessels.

OFMD Officials conditions

condition

Enforcement of this licence

condition

Objective 4: Engage with artisanal, subsistence fishers and local communities through Industry, Inshore Divisions within the Ministry of Fisheries

Strategy 4.1 Undertake effective

consultation and

communication with

Industry, inshore fishers

and the wider community

Respective Divisions within

MoF

Principal media officer

Consultation with relevant

ministries, communities.

Awareness programs to be

conducted. Charts,

pamphlets to be

distributed to communities

on Ministry’s role, vision

and mission. And activities.

Ongoing

Funding to carry out

awareness programs to

communities.

Objective 5: Collect, analyze and share data (where appropriate) in a timely manner to support the effective management of this fishery and meet

international obligations.

Strategy 5.1 Develop effective

information management

systems.

Senior Executives

OFMD Officials

Information Technology

Unit

NZ MPI funded and

develop IMS System

2024 On-going consultation

Strategy 5.2 Provide timely information

and analysis to assist the

MoF decision making

processes and to meet

international reporting

obligations.

OFMD officials Fiji Annual Part 1 Report

Fiji Annual Part 2 report

Annual Catch Estimate

Fish not fish report

Annually Timely availability of

accurate data

33

FAO related reports

Strategy 5.3 Sharing of data through

MoUs with other SIDs

Senior Executives

OFMD Officials

MoFA

Liaise with SIDs and

develop MoUs to share

information relating to

observer, IUU port related

activities.

Ongoing

National requirements take

priority.

Objective 6: Adopt effective MCS measures to prevent deter and eliminate IUU fishing.

Strategy 6.1 Undertake active MCS to

ensure that commercial

vessels comply with

Fisheries laws.

OFMD Officials OFMD Enforcement

officers to Carry out Sea,

land and air surveillance

supported by FRNS and

FFA.

Observer placement on Fiji

vessels to act as

compliance tool.

Ongoing Lack of funding/

enforcement officers to

carry out unscheduled MCS

related activities.

Lack of training for

Enforcement officers in

areas such as investigation

and prosecution processes.

Strategy 6.2 Review and update SOPs OFMD Officials OFMD officers review SOPs

based on changes in

operations carried out by

them to align with the

Ministry’s SDP and OP.

Ongoing Overlap of duties

Funding for external audit

process

Strategy 6.3 Strengthen national

observer programme

OFMD Officials SPC facilitate the observer

trainings to demonstrate

effective fish /bycatch

handling practices,

ensuring vessels are

compliant to relevant

Ongoing Insufficient funding for

observer program.

Observer safety and

welfare.

34

CMMs.

SPC to provide advanced

Debriefer training, train the

trainers, cross

endorsement, IFIMS

Training

Objective 7: Identify potential impacts of climate change on the tuna fisheries and implement measures to mitigate against any potential negative impacts on

the tuna sector.

Strategy 7.1 Work with SPC to

undertake national analysis

of the potential impacts of

climate change on Fiji’s

tuna fishery.

OFMD officials

MoE

MoFA

Assist SPC in gathering

climate change related

information and data.

SPC to compile and submit

report to senior executives

Ongoing Appropriate data available

to feed into climate change

models.

SPC priority focus on other

national mitigation and

adaptation measures

rather the tuna fishery.

Strategy 7.2 Work with regional

organizations to conduct

economic research and

analysis on the means to

maximize returns from the

tuna fishery should catches

decline due to climate

change.

OFMD Officials FFA, SPC to assist in

compiling economic

research and analysis

related reports and present

to senior executives.

May, 2022

Reliant on Industry to

provide accurate in-

confidence financial and

economic data.

TUNA INDUSTRY DEVELOPMENT

Objective 1: Promote growth in Onshore and Offshore fisheries developments thereby maximizing long-term economic and social benefits that sustain

35

livelihood of local populations.

Strategy 1.1 Deploy additional

anchored FADs for use by

small scale fishers

Regional Offices SPC to assist in deploying

the FADS in areas identified

by regional offices.

2021 Obtaining funds for

purchasing of FADs

materials and identifying

areas for deployment.

Managing of FADs.

Strategy 1.2 Give consideration to

extending the zone set

aside for artisanal and

small scale fishers.

Senior executives

OFMD officials

Senior executives to

identify the area for zone

extending and submitting

for cabinet approval

2024

Lack of strong scientific/

socio-economic

information to provide

justification for the zoning

Strong opposition from

Industry stakeholder

Strategy 1.3 Provide ongoing regular

training and auditing to

ensure Fiji CA -IUU remains

active and compliant.

OFMD Officials

FFA

OFMD officials to carry out

boarding inspection

training and training on

traceability, catch

documentation processes

to ensure industry is

compliant.

FFA continues to provide

capacity building trainings.

Ongoing Lack of human resources

carry out traceability

works.

Risk of increasing workload

as other importing

countries increases their

IUU traceability

requirements.

Strategy 1.4 Introduce digital OFMD Officials Digital traceability systems 2024 Lack of funding to Purchase

36

traceability systems to

enhance traceability and

catch documentation.

is introduced to enhance

traceability and catch

documentation and ease

work for OFMD staff

and develop the Digital

Traceability System.

Strategy 1.5 Expand MSC certification to

the entire Fiji domestic

longline fleet.

senior executives

OFMD staff

vessel operators

Continue to encourage

theIndustry to get certified

2024 Financial constrain

restricting companies to

get their vessels MSC

certified.

Commitment from Vessel

operators to obtain

certification.

Objective 2: Encourage investment and employment opportunities for Fiji citizens in fisheries sector. Ensure broad participation by Fiji citizens in activities

related to the sustainable use of fisheries resources.

Strategy 2.1 Review the current

fisheries investment

strategy and update where

required.

Senior Executives,

Senior OFMD officials

Line Ministries.

Recognize areas where

changes in fisheries

investment strategy is

needed and liaise with line

ministries for relevant

updates.

2022 Processes involved to

change and or amend

investment strategy may

take time.

Political will to implement

changes.

Strategy 2.2 Review fees including

transhipments in order to

entice investors and fishing

boats back and regularly

use Fiji designated ports.

OFMD Officials

FRCS

MoE

Industry

OFMD Officials, Industry

and line Ministries to

discuss the review of

transhipment fees and look

at other potentials ways to

bring foreign vessels to

2021 Negotiations and

agreement to reduce or

eliminate transhipment

fees may take time.

37

Fiji’s port.

Strategy 2.3 Establish Fiji as a

processing hub

Senior Executives

OFMD Officials,

Line Ministries

Strategy to establish

processing hub developed

and implemented.

2024 Funding for development.

Raw material for

processing.

Strategy 2.4 Fish supply to Fiji

processing plants increased

through agreements with

neighbouring States to

have their licensed vessels

supply plants.

Senior Executives

OFMD Officials,

Line Ministries

Negotiation works to be

done with other

neighbouring states to

reach an agreement for

their vessels to supply fish

to Fiji’s processing plants.

2024 Neighbouring states may

be reluctant to send their

vessels to Fiji if the costs of

operations remains high.

Strategy 2.5 Provide incentives to both

fishers and processors to

encourage

landing of whole fish for

local

Processing and

downstream value

addition.

Senior Executives

OFMD Officials

Engage industry in

consultations to identify

potential incentives

for local

Processing and

downstream value

addition.

2021 In Availability of resources

and lack of technical

expertise.

Incentives not supported

by finance and treasury

officials.

Strategy 2.6 Develop a specialized

fisheries course for the

local fishing industry in

accordance with the

requirements of STCW-f.

OFMD Officials

FMA

Assist FMA in designing

programs and courses to

be taught.

Ongoing Adequate funding for FMA

to facilitate the courses.

Trained personnel move to

other employment in the

Maritime sector.

Strategy 2.7 Upgrade existing port and Senior executives Liaise with Ports and other 2024 Availability of funding and

38

wharf

Facilities and establish new

facilities.

Line Ministries,

FPCL

relevant authorities to

decide on options for

upgrading and or

establishing new port/

wharf facilities.

space for expansion and

development of new

facilities.

Meeting standards for

market access.

Strategy 2.8 Improve working

conditions for

crew on fishing vessels

licensed by

Fiji.

OFMD Officials

FFA

vessel operators

Drafting of policy on the

safety of crews on fishing

vessels including safe

working conditions.

Consultation with Ministry

of Employment

Productivity and Industrial

Relations (MoEPIR) and

Fishing Industry.

2020 Capacity for the Industry to

meet requirements for

safety of crew and working

condition on their fishing

vessels.

Human and Institution

Capacity to enforce the

labour standards.

Strategy 2.9 Ensure vessels authorized

by Fiji to operate outside of

the EEZ meet the minimum

requirements on the

design, construction,

equipment, and inspection

of fishing vessels set out in

the Cape town Agreement.

OFMD Officials

MSAF

Fishing Industry

Consultation work with

MSAF and Industry on the

minimum requirements on

the design, construction,

equipment, and inspection

of fishing vessels fishing

outside of Fiji’s EEZ.

2022 Capacity for the Industry to

meet requirements to

upgrade their vessels as

per the required standards.

Strategy 2.10 Gender equity promoted in

the workplace throughout

the fisheries sector in Fiji

MOF

Fishing Industry,

Encouraging and

empowering more women

to be involved in fishing

Ongoing Not seen as a priority by

stakeholders.

39

industry

The ministry in

consultation with industry

will promote gender

equality and equity.