© Tom Vierus / WWF-US
Fiji's Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) Seascape
​The endless waters of Fiji’s sprawling EEZ are continually abuzz with the movement of globally significant and iconic marine species.

Yellowfin, skipjack, albacore, and bigeye tuna spawn and forage, as spinner dolphins swim nearby. As the seasons change, this vital migration route becomes a safe passage for endangered whales, turtles, sharks, rays and more.

But a domestic fisheries industry has emerged on the back of this vibrant ecosystem. This sector plays a crucial role in the overall growth and development of the country and needs to be sustainably and collaboratively managed. Many coastal fish stocks are now overexploited, and other wildlife is being caught and killed as collateral damage.

Fiji has a 2020-2030 National Oceans Policy intended to guide government and stakeholders' efforts towards managing Fiji’s oceans and biodiversity. With the balance of this globally important ecosystem facing a precarious future, it is vital that we work now to ensure that Fiji’s EEZ can continue to support the country’s economic growth, its communities, as well as the wildlife that has thrived here for millennia.

WHAT ARE WE DOING?

WWF-Fiji collaborates with partners throughout the seafood supply chain to address illegal and overfishing in both inshore and offshore fisheries sectors, aiming to establish a solid foundation for sustainable business practices.

After years of building trust and awareness within the fisheries sector, we have created an enabling environment for our participation and guidance. We are now uniquely positioned to lead the country towards an equitable and sustainably managed fisheries sector, enhancing traceability and transparency while reducing bycatch of marine species.

Given the impact of harmful fishing practices on endangered turtle populations, our work in the EEZ also focuses on partnering with local communities to monitor and protect vulnerable turtle nesting sites across Fiji.

Some spotlights include...

© naturepl.com / Doc White / WWF

Upholding accountability

Three tuna fisheries have successfully retained their Marine Stewardship Council (MSC) certifications, thanks to the ongoing commitment of WWF-Fiji. As the sole non-governmental organization observer in the MSC working group, WWF-Fiji will continue to play a crucial role in the annual audit process, collaborating closely with the Ministry of Fisheries and the Fiji Fishing Industry Association to ensure sustainable fishing practices.

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© Cat Holloway / WWF

MITIGATING BYCATCH

Longterm and sustained collaboration with the tuna industry has led to 82% reduction of turtle bycatch and 86.8% eduction of shark bycatch, already exceeding WWF-Pacific's target of 86% reduction by 2025. 

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