New Zealand is providing additional funding to the Forum Fisheries Agency to help Pacific nations secure better economic returns from tuna fishing in their waters.
Foreign Minister Winston Peters and Oceans and Fisheries Minister Shane Jones revealed the funding increase for Pacific fisheries as Wellington hosts Pacific fisheries ministers this week. Jones made the announcement at Parliament as he opened the 25th Forum Fisheries Committee Ministerial Meeting.
The Pacific region produces more than half of the world's traded tuna, yet Pacific nations where most tuna are harvested do not always receive fair economic returns from that catch.
The additional funding will enable the FFA to tackle illegal, unreported and unregulated fishing, strengthen capabilities in member nations, and protect the long-term viability of fish stocks across the region.
The funding will support the Pacific Islands Tuna Ventures programme, which targets opportunities to add value to regional fisheries. The programme has delivered outcomes including turning tuna waste products into pet food, fertiliser and premium food items.
"Backing the Pacific-based fish processors who link coastal communities to the global marketplace is one way New Zealand can help change that," Peters said.
New Zealand is hosting the annual ministerial meetings for the first time in 18 years, with Jones chairing the forum.