FIJI has become the first Pacific nation to formally adopt a national maritime security strategy, outlining a whole‑of‑government framework to strengthen surveillance, enforcement and protection across its vast exclusive economic zone.
The strategy was launched in Suva by Fiji’s Ministry of Defence, signalling what officials described as a “step‑change” in how Pacific states manage maritime risks, illegal activity and environmental pressures.
Fiji’s government said the strategy aims to improve maritime domain awareness, enhance inter‑agency coordination, and support regional security partnerships across the Pacific. It also sets out measures to counter illegal, unreported and unregulated (IUU) fishing, transnational crime, and safety risks to commercial and domestic shipping.
The release notes Fiji’s EEZ covers more than 1.2 million square kilometres, making maritime governance central to national security and economic stability. The strategy identifies ports, shipping channels and coastal infrastructure as critical assets requiring stronger protection and monitoring.
Fiji’s Ministry of Defence said the framework aligns with regional initiatives under the Pacific Islands Forum, including the 2050 Strategy for the Blue Pacific Continent, and complements existing cooperation with Australia and New Zealand on maritime surveillance and capability building.
For commercial shipping, the strategy is expected to influence compliance expectations, patrol activity, and information‑sharing protocols in Fiji’s waters. The government said improved coordination between agencies would support safer navigation, more consistent enforcement, and better response capacity for maritime incidents.
The strategy also highlights climate‑related pressures, including severe weather events and coastal vulnerability, as emerging risks for maritime operations.
Fiji’s government said implementation would begin immediately, with agencies tasked with developing operational plans and reporting frameworks.