Fiji Times Wednesday 18 October 2017 SHIPPING vessels have increased in size, types and efficiency over the years, says Maritime Safety Authority of Fiji (MSAF) CEO John Tunidau.
He said private ship operators and owners had also increasingly procured ships to be registered in Fiji to service islands and subsequently, foster economic growth and ensure prosperity.
“Prior to 2015 there were approximately 989 ships that were registered and as of today, there are 2162 ships registered,” he said.
“Of this, 1906 are less than 15 metres in length and 256 are more than 15m. In the tourism sector, new ships have been procured by major tourism shipping operators to service the tourism industry in Fiji.
“Currently, new ships are being constructed abroad to be delivered to Fiji for registration.
“New ships with latest ships technology are environmentally friendly and ensure that greenhouse gas emissions from ships are kept to the minimum.”
According to Mr Tunidau, Government was undertaking consultations with all relevant stakeholders to determine soft and hard measures that could improve the efficiency and sustainability of the transport system in Fiji, including maritime transport.