Farmed Acropora cerealis, one of many corals that Walt Smith International has been unable to export for over two months in the wake of a surprise ban on the coral and live rock trade in Fiji. Image Credit: Walt Smith International
Editor’s note: While there were earlier rumblings of Fiji’s ban on the coral and live rock trade being lifted back at the end of January, that turned out to be short-lived. We now have this announcement, direct from Walt Smith International.
Bula!
I know its been over a month since we have put out an update, and trust me when I say we have been in the offices of the government every day of this 70-day ban.
Walt and Dave spent this time providing data and records to show the Prime Minister and his staff how WSI operates and the sustainable efforts we have already established in the 23 years we have been in Fiji. After many long presentations and meetings, the Prime Minister was convinced of our success, honesty, and commitment to the Fiji Reefs.
The government will be setting up a monitoring team to ensure compliance and work with us on the future of Fiji’s reefs, ensuring they will be around for everyone to enjoy forever.
We openly welcome all of this, as we have always had an open door policy toward our government.
We can now officially say that the Fiji Coral ban has been lifted, and our quota for 2018 is being restored.
WSI still has a rough road ahead of us in getting everything back on track, but this is a huge hurdle and we are excited to be able to start getting back to normal business.
Additionally, we would like to thank many of you for donating to The ADE Project. Your donations played a huge part in showing our industry’s commitment to sustainability. It is not too late to also help show your support and be part of the huge rehabilitation program for Fiji.
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