Article Summary:

Radio Fiji has reported that Fiji is set to enact a fisheries policy which will ban all shark finning in the country in order to address the alarming decline of sharks. Department of Fisheries and Forests permanent secretary Commander Viliame Naupoto said that the ban would be similar to laws already enacted that currently protect turtles. The new law would ban the trade of all shark fins and other products derived from any type of shark captured in Fijian waters.

The Fijian government has recognized that sharks have more value in attracting tourism than they do as foodstuffs and their vital role in the ocean’s ecosystem.