The Fijian government is currently engaged in discussions with neighboring Pacific countries to secure additional tuna supplies for the Pacific Fishing Company (PAFCO) based in Levuka. This strategic move comes in the wake of the European Union’s (EU) decision to relax regulations concerning the origin of fish exports. During a recent parliamentary session, Opposition MP Faiyaz Koya reiterated concerns regarding whether agreements have been established with regional partners to enhance fish supplies for PAFCO’s processing operations.
Fisheries and Forests Minister Alitia Bainivalu responded by assuring that substantial progress had been made to address the supply challenges facing PAFCO. She disclosed that the company plans to expand its operations by developing a fleet of longliners and purse seiners and is exploring the possibility of acquiring offshore licenses. Initial talks have already taken place with Kiribati and Tuvalu to allow PAFCO vessels to operate within their waters.
Koya also raised questions about labeling requirements, specifically whether fish caught in waters outside of Fiji and processed in Levuka would be marketed as Fijian tuna. Minister Bainivalu clarified that fish will retain their original labels based on the area where they were caught, although those processed in Fiji will be marketed as Fijian products for sales purposes.
The recent easing of EU regulations permits fish processed at PAFCO to be identified as products of Fiji, thereby supporting the local tuna-processing industry. This development is facilitated under the newly extended Global Sourcing provisions of the Interim Economic Partnership Agreement (IEPA), aligning with Fiji’s objectives to strengthen trade relations and enhance regional economic stability.
These initiatives hold significant importance for PAFCO, a vital component of the local economy in Levuka, where many individuals rely on the fishing and processing sector for their livelihoods. Previous engagements have underscored a commitment to sustainable fisheries management through regional collaboration, particularly regarding the crucial albacore stocks critical to the community’s well-being.
Fiji’s proactive efforts to bolster supply capabilities for PAFCO present a promising outlook for the local fishing industry and its economic stability. The ongoing partnerships emphasize a hopeful future for Fiji and its Pacific neighbors, further promoting sustainable practices and fostering growth within the fisheries sector.