E-System to Combat Illegal, Unreported and Unregulated Fishing

‘An e-system or electronic system will provide a digital platform for countries to exchange information, share data and collaborate in real time to combat IUU fishing.’

The introduction of the e-system (electronic system) will curb iIlegal, unreported and unregulated (IUU) fishing.

The e-system aims to address and combat IUU fishing.

Ministry of Fisheries, Permanent Secretary, Atelaite Rokosuka said the trending issue of IUU fishing must be addressed immediately because it posed a high risk to Fiji’s shores.

“An e-system will provide a digital platform for countries to exchange information, share data and collaborate in real time to combat IUU fishing,” Ms Rokosuka said.

“The e-system will streamline the process of reporting and verify information about fishing vessel entering port making it efficient and less prone to errors or delays”.

She added, the e-system would allow for the electronic submission of required documents such as fishing licence, vessel registration and catch certificates ensuring their prompt processing and verification.

“IUU fishing is a threat to global fisheries, it is a real concern and a loss of revenue. It undermines the conservation and management put in place to main fish stock,” Ms Rokosuka said.

“IUU fishing not only affects fish population but it damages marine habitats, disrupts coastal economies and jeopardises food security. “The esystem will enable quick access on information of vessels suspected of IUU fishing and assist in terms of investigation.

An e-system or electronic system will provide a digital platform for countries to exchange information, share data and collaborate in real time to combat IUU fishing.

Atelaite Rokosuka Ministry of Fisheries Permanent Secretary

Photo: Ronald Kumar Members of the forum fisheries agency, Ministry of Fisheries and National e-Port State Development team at the Peninsula Hotel in Suva on January 31, 2024.