The Pacific Islands Forum Fisheries Agency (FFA) has praised the Solomon Islands Government for its ongoing commitment to fisheries development following the inauguration of a new office for the Ministry of Fisheries and Marine Resources in Noro, Western Province. FFA Director-General Noan David Pakop attended the official opening on November 10, 2025, and highlighted how this development underscores the government’s acknowledgment of the fishing industry as a crucial component of the national economy.
Pakop commended the Solomon Islands Government for establishing the new office, recognizing it as a significant step towards enhancing support for the fisheries sector. He noted that the office will facilitate the delivery of key services directly to where they are most needed, allowing for sustainable growth in the industry. Noro Township thrives on the activities of National Fisheries Development Ltd. and Soltuna, a tuna-processing facility that collectively sustains fisheries operations and contributes significantly to local employment.
Currently, around 30% of the total fish production from Solomon Islands waters is processed in the Soltuna cannery, representing a vital contribution to employment, income, and national economic activity. The presence of the new ministry office aims to bolster these contributions and support the sustainable growth of the fisheries sector.
Pakop also pointed out that this initiative serves as a model for other Pacific nations, encouraging them to bring their fisheries authorities closer to the operations of the industry. Proximity, he explained, leads to improved facilitation of exports, imports, fish landings, and processing activities while ensuring compliance with national and international standards.
In conjunction with the office’s opening, Pakop mentioned the importance of coordinated efforts among various government departments, emphasizing that collaboration from institutions like the Finance Department and the Data Centre will enhance support for the fisheries sector. This unified approach is essential for effective implementation of policies geared towards sustainable fisheries management.
The attendance of Solomon Islands Prime Minister Jeremiah Manele and Fisheries Minister Bradley Tovosia at the event further articulated the government’s prioritization of fisheries development, which plays a critical role in the economy of the Solomon Islands and the broader Pacific region. Notably, the Pacific is responsible for over half of the global tuna supply, reflecting its significance on the world stage.
Pakop concluded by congratulating the Solomon Islands Government and the people of Western Province for what he described as an important milestone and a reflection of strong leadership in sustainable fisheries development, setting the stage for a brighter, more sustainable future for the industry in the region.