The Fiji Fishing Industry Association maintains robust, strategic partnerships with key government ministries to support sustainable development, responsible fisheries management, and international trade integration. Our engagements ensure that the voice of the industry is reflected in national policy frameworks and global initiatives.

Ministry of Fisheries

FFIA works closely with the Ministry of Fisheries in advancing national and regional programs. We actively support the GCF Regional Tuna Program, and play a pivotal role in the implementation of Electronic Monitoring Systems (EMS) to enhance traceability and transparency at sea. Our partnership also contributes to the eradication of Illegal, Unreported, and Unregulated (IUU) fishing. Additionally, FFIA collaborated with the ministry in the formulation of the National Crewing Policy and Labour Inspection Protocol, ensuring improved working conditions and compliance with international standards.

In addition to strategic initiatives, FFIA and its members maintain a strong working relationship with the Ministry of Fisheries in day-to-day operations. Our members provide their full cooperation to fisheries observers on board vessels, facilitating their duties with professionalism and transparency. FFIA vessels also respond promptly and reliably to all monitoring and reporting requirements, reinforcing our commitment to compliance, sustainable resource management, and data transparency. This seamless collaboration underscores FFIA’s role as a responsible industry partner supporting the Ministry’s regulatory and conservation mandates.

Ministry of Trade

FFIA engages in policy dialogue with the Ministry of Trade to advocate for global market access. We have actively participated in consultations on the Interim Economic Partnership Agreement (iEPA) with the European Union, supporting global sourcing initiatives that enhance the competitiveness of Fiji’s tuna exports. FFIA also contributed to industry-wide consultations addressing the 32% tariff imposed by the U.S. government on Fijian imports and continues to engage in trade facilitation efforts spearheaded by the ministry.

Ministry of Employment, Productivity & Industrial Relations

Recognizing the unique operational context of the fishing industry, FFIA has been an active participant in national consultations on the Employment Relations Bill and the WorkCare Bill 2024. Our input emphasizes the need for tailored legal frameworks that align with international labour conventions and the National Crewing Policy, ensuring that legislation supports the fair and safe employment of seafarers without compromising the operational realities of the sector.

Ministry of Environment and Climate Change

FFIA is an active contributor to national dialogues on marine conservation, including the 30×30 Marine Protected Area (MPA) initiative. While committed to environmental stewardship, we emphasize the need for balanced policies that protect Fiji’s marine biodiversity without undermining the livelihoods of Fijians who depend on ocean resources. FFIA continues to collaborate with policymakers and stakeholders to ensure that conservation efforts align with economic development objectives and sovereign fishing rights.

Ministry of Finance

FFIA has consistently submitted proposals to the Ministry of Finance, advocating for budgetary support and policy incentives that drive the growth of the fisheries and seafood export sector. For the upcoming 2025 National Budget, FFIA has again presented targeted recommendations to promote industry sustainability, job creation, and export diversification