Biosecurity Emergency Declared Over Tongan Fruit Fly Threat

The Biosecurity Emergency – Tongan Fruit Fly Regulations 2025 are now in force and impose strict movement controls within declared biosecurity emergency areas to prevent the spread of the pest.

Under the regulations, the movement of host fruits and host materials is strictly prohibited without official approval. This includes carrying, transporting, or relocating fruits and plant materials within or out of affected areas unless authorised by biosecurity officials.

Authorities have warned that non-compliance is a serious offence. Individuals found breaching the regulations may face fines of up to $40,000, while companies or other corporate bodies could be fined up to $200,000 upon conviction.

The Tongan Fruit Fly is known to cause significant damage to fruit crops, threatening farmers’ livelihoods, domestic food supply, and export markets. Biosecurity officials stress that public cooperation is critical to containing the pest and preventing long-term economic losses.

Members of the public are urged to remain vigilant, comply with all restrictions, and report any suspected fruit fly activity to the Biosecurity Authority of Fiji (BAF).

The full Biosecurity Emergency Declaration and Regulations are available on the Biosecurity Authority of Fiji website.

Authorities are calling on all Fijians to work together to protect the nation’s agriculture, environment, and food security.