4-month Kawakawa and Donu ban begins today

Fiji has initiated a nationwide ban on fishing, selling, and exporting two key marine species: Kawakawa, commonly known as Grouper, and Donu, locally called Coral Trout. This measure, effective immediately and lasting until September 30th, is designed to safeguard these fish during their critical peak breeding season.

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The seasonal ban takes effect today and will remain in force until September 30th.

The Ministry of Fisheries has imposed comprehensive restrictions covering all aspects of handling these species. This includes fishing and collection, selling or offering them for sale, landing and transportation, as well as receiving, possessing, and dealing in the fish. The ban also extends to the export of any Grouper or Coral Trout species, and applies to the movement of these fish between local markets, including shipments from Vanua Levu to Viti Levu.

Fishermen and vendors who had already caught Kawakawa and Donu before the ban were permitted to sell their existing stock locally until yesterday evening. Any unsold fish must now be frozen, clearly labeled with the owner's name and the date of receipt, and stored until the ban is lifted. Those retaining frozen stock are required to submit detailed written reports to their respective Divisional Fisheries Offices and make the fish available for inspection.

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The Ministry is warning that any individual or business found breaching the regulation commits an offence under the law.

The seasonal closure is enforced under Regulation 4 of the Offshore Fisheries Management Regulation. The Ministry warns that any individual or business found breaching these regulations will face legal consequences. The public, commercial fishers, and seafood exporters are urged to comply with these restrictions to ensure the long-term sustainability of Fiji's valuable marine resources.

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Members of the public, commercial fishers and seafood exporters are being urged to comply with the restrictions to help protect fish stocks and ensure the long-term sustainability of Fiji’s marine resources.