Fiji Launches Pacific’s First Maritime Security Strategy

Fiji officially launched the Pacific's first dedicated national maritime security strategy on Wednesday, setting out a ten-year plan to coordinate the island nation's response to illegal fishing, smuggling, cyber threats and climate-related maritime risks.

The National Maritime Security Strategy 2026-2035 was unveiled at the Novotel Suva Lami Bay. Cabinet had endorsed the document earlier this month. The plan covers seven pillars: maritime governance, intelligence sharing, coordinated operations, infrastructure resilience, environmental security, cyber resilience and regional cooperation. It sets firm deadlines for implementing reforms across each area.

Fiji developed the strategy with support from the United Nations Development Programme and the United Kingdom government. Officials described it as a first for the Pacific, providing a single coordinating framework for agencies and partners operating in Fiji's extensive ocean territory.

Enforcement activity has been picking up ahead of the launch. Earlier this month, the MV Westerland was removed from Suva Harbour after a lengthy clearance operation, the kind of effort the new strategy is designed to support through coordinated interagency action.