The ban on harvesting and sale of Grouper, Kawakawa and Coral trout, Donu fish will come into effect on the 15th of this month to September.
The seasonal ban aims to protect all the species in the two families during their peak breeding months.
Minister for Fisheries, Semi Koroilavesau says the ban was temporarily lifted for the past two years to assist fishermen in cushioning the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic.
The Minister say they will resume with the ban as Fiji is slowly recovering from the negative effects of the pandemic.
He adds that it is very important that we protect these two vulnerable species and help them repopulate in our waters.
Koroilavesau explains we all must be aware that the sustainable management of our grouper and coral trout resources is not a quick fix, so they will continue implementing targeted management measures to ensure that these iconic species are allowed to replenish.
He further says it is important that we be reminded that factors such as climate change and other natural disasters, coupled with overharvesting have drastically affected our ocean resources, thus it is vital that we all support this important initiative for our sustenance.
The Ministry will continue to implement the seasonal ban through awareness initiatives and consultations right through to enforcement.
He strongly advises all fishers, restaurants, fish retailers and communities to comply with the provisions of the ban, and to continue to support the Ministry of Fisheries in the implementation of this important management measure.
The Minister emphasises that anyone who fails to do so and is found with these species during the ban period will be treated as non-compliant and will face formal action.
[Source: Fijian Government]
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