SUVA, June 27 (Xinhua) -- In response to moves by some shipping operators threatening to suspend services, the Fijian government has taken proactive measures to ensure the continuity of maritime services.

The Ministry of Transport, in collaboration with the Maritime Safety Authority of Fiji, has called for expressions of interest from qualified ship owners and operators to provide services on both commercial and subsidized maritime routes, according to Fiji Broadcasting Corporation.

In a public notice issued on Saturday, the ministry said the initiative is aimed at identifying capable operators interested in servicing Fiji's maritime routes under normal commercial arrangements and through the government shipping franchise scheme.

Fiji's maritime transport network remains a vital lifeline, supporting the movement of passengers, essential goods and fostering economic activity across the islands.

The Ministry stated that many coastal and island communities rely heavily on regular and reliable shipping services for their social and economic well-being.

The government shipping franchise scheme provides subsidized services to uneconomical routes, ensuring remote maritime communities continue to have access to reliable transport.

The ministry said the current operating environment and the possibility of changes to services provided by existing operators have prompted the call for expressions of interest as part of the government's contingency planning to ensure the continuity, reliability and uninterrupted delivery of essential maritime transport services throughout Fiji. ■