The Fijian government is currently in negotiations with its Pacific neighbors to secure additional tuna supplies for the Pacific Fishing Company (PAFCO) in Levuka. This move follows a recent decision by the European Union (EU) to ease rules regarding the origin of fish exports. During a parliamentary session, Opposition MP Faiyaz Koya raised concerns about whether Fiji had reached agreements with regional partners to augment fish supply for PAFCO’s processing needs.
In response, Fisheries and Forests Minister Alitia Bainivalu acknowledged that significant progress had been made toward addressing the supply issue for PAFCO. She revealed that the company shared plans for expanding its operations through the establishment of a fleet of longliners and purse seiners, and that the ministry is contemplating the issuance of offshore licenses to PAFCO. Discussions have already taken place with Kiribati and Tuvalu regarding accessing their waters for PAFCO vessels.
Furthermore, Koya sought clarification on labeling requirements, specifically whether fish caught in jurisdictions outside Fiji and processed in Levuka would be marketed as Fijian tuna. Minister Bainivalu clarified that fish will retain their origin labels based on where they are caught, but those processed in Fiji would be recognized as Fijian products in terms of sales.
The EU’s relaxed rules now allow fish processed at PAFCO to be marketed as products originating from Fiji, thus supporting the local tuna-processing industry under the newly extended Global Sourcing provisions facilitated by the Interim Economic Partnership Agreement (IEPA). This development not only aligns with Fiji’s strategy to bolster its trade relations but also enhances the economic stability of the region.
Such initiatives are crucial for PAFCO, which plays a significant role in the local economy, particularly in Levuka, where many livelihoods depend on the fishing and processing sector. Previous discussions highlighted a growing commitment to sustainable fisheries management through regional cooperation, particularly concerning albacore stocks, which are vital for the community.
As Fiji continues to navigate the complexities of international trade, its proactive approach towards enhancing supply capabilities for PAFCO presents an encouraging outlook for the local fishing industry and its economic resilience. The ongoing collaborations underline a hopeful future for both Fiji and its neighboring Pacific nations, emphasizing sustainable practices while fostering growth and stability within the fisheries sector.