Shipping plays a crucial role in the day-to-day operations of the country.
This was highlighted by Minister for Rural and Maritime Development and Disaster Management Sakiasi Ditoka at the World Maritime Day celebration in Suva last Friday.
“Over 80 per cent of global trade is transported by international shipping in Fiji, this percentage is even higher,” Mr Ditoka said.
He said the importance of the shipping sector was even greater after national disasters, global crisis and geopolitical acts like the Ukraine-Russia war.
“International shipping played an important role and stood strong while other modes of transportation were affected.”
He acknowledged the service support provided to the maritime islands and stakeholders that assisted with this.
International Maritime Organization (IMO) secretary-general Kitack Lim also delivered a virtual address, highlighting maritime transport being the safest and most energy efficient.
He also stressed the importance of shipping services, while saying they will continue to fulfill its role as the global regulator for shipping that ensures cargo in a sustainable and environmentally friendly manner.
Also present at the event was the executive chairman of Maritime Safety Authority of Fiji (MSAF) Josateki Tagi, the Ministry of Public Works and Meteorological Services permanent secretary Taitusi Vakadravuyaca and the Deputy Commander of the Fiji Navy Marika Vosawale.
