All Stakeholders, including vessel operators, ship masters, shipping companies, and marine service providers, agents are hereby reminded that;
- Cleaning or scraping of hulls and other external surfaces of ships in a manner that introduces harmful substances and other pollutant or invasive species in Fiji Waters is strictly prohibited.
- No hull cleaning activities should be conducted in Fiji Waters without written approval from the Biosecurity Authority of Fiji (BAF). Applicants must submit a request together with all required documentation to BAF for assessment and approval prior to conducting any biofouling or hull cleaning activities.
- Failure to obtain approval before engaging in these activities will result in severe penalties and legal consequences under the Biosecurity Act 2008 and Maritime Transport Act 2014.
For requests and inquiries in relation to (3) above, please contact the nearest BAF Office.
This Notice is effective immediately and all stakeholders are expected to comply with these regulations to ensure the protection of Fiji’s unique and diverse marine environment.
This Notice supersedes MN 04/2017.
For further information, please contact Mr Sesoni Komaisoso, Manager Ships Inspection on Email: skomaisoso@msaf.com.fj Telephone: 3315266 ext.1108 or Mobile: 7706401
CMDR JOWELI CAWAKI
CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER
Maritime Safety Authority of Fiji
23rd January 2024.