The Biosecurity Authority of Fiji (BAF) announces the eradication of Asian subterranean termites (AST) from the infested areas in Nakasi and Rakiraki, following response operations and treatment, post-treatment surveillance.

The results demonstrate that a focused response, supported by property owners and communities, can eliminate a localised AST infestation. BAF will continue routine vigilance in both areas so that any new termite activity is reported and investigated promptly.

“Eradication in Nakasi and Rakiraki is an important achievement for the affected communities and for Fiji’s biosecurity system,” said Mr. Surend Pratap – Acting CEO. “Our team remains focused on Ciriwai. We are encouraged by the progress, but eradication there will only be declared when surveillance provides sufficient evidence that the termite population has been eliminated,’’ Mr Pratap Said.” AST was first detected in Nakasi in September 2023 and in Rakiraki in January 2024.

“This success was made possible through strong collaboration with partner agencies. The Republic of Fiji Military Forces (RFMF) supported delimiting surveys and baiting operations in the infested zones, while the National Disaster Management Office (NDMO) played a key role by activating the declared zones. The Fiji Police Force also contributed by providing the Nakasi Police Post as a base of operations for containment measures.”

BAF Chief Plant Protection Officer Nitesh Datt said the results reflected sustained field work and the cooperation of affected communities. “Termite eradication requires more than treatment alone. Our officers must locate the infestation, treat affected sites and continue surveillance to check that termite activity has ceased. The cooperation of residents in Nakasi and Rakiraki was essential to achieving this outcome,” Datt said.
BAF is applying the lessons from Nakasi and Rakiraki to its ongoing response in Ciriwai, Sigatoka.

Treatment, inspections and surveillance remain in progress there. In Ciriwai, Sigatoka, AST was detected in January 2025.

BAF is confident that eradication can also be achieved in Ciriwai, provided the response is sustained and residents continue to support access, reporting and controls on the movement of potentially infested materials

We will only declare eradication once the surveillance evidence supports that conclusion,” Datt said.

BAF will maintain routine vigilance in Nakasi and Rakiraki and urges residents in all areas to report suspected AST activity. Signs include swarming termites near lights, discarded wings and mud tubes on walls or timber. Residents should seek BAF advice before moving potentially infested materials from an affected area.

Suspected activity can be reported to BAF on 5994 (Suva), 5996 (Lautoka) or 5993 (Labasa).

Photographs and location details can also be emailed to info@baf.com.fj.