11 Sep 2017

Fiji to clamp down on grouper fishing

11:04 am on 11 September 2017

Fishing, selling or buying grouper fish during its spawning season will soon be illegal in Fiji.

Spawning Kawaka (grouper) in Fiji.

Spawning Kawaka (grouper) in Fiji. Photo: Paul McKenzie - 4FJ

The fisheries minister, Semi Koroilavesau, said new regulations would be in force from June to September next year.

He said there would also be a permanent ban on the harvest, sale and export of beche de mer, as well as a ban on longline fishing within 10 nautical miles of barrier reefs.

The Fiji Times reported Mr Koroilavesau also promised increased enforcement of current size limits.

The measures are part commitments Fiji made at a United Nations oceans conference in June.

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