Government launches $5 million tuna development fund to boost offshore fisheries

The Government has established a new $5 million Tuna Development Fund to support Fiji's offshore fisheries sector, providing financial assistance to longline fishing operators, fish processing facilities, and other industry stakeholders.Minister for Fisheries Alitia Bainivalu announced the initiative in Parliament today during the debate on the 2026–2027 Budget for the Ministry of Fisheries.She confirmed the fund is a new government allocation and is separate from the United States Tuna Treaty Fund.The Minister says the funding will be available to assist operators facing financial challenges, including those with vessels tied up because of rising fuel costs. She adds that the fund may be used to support operational expenses, fleet modernisation, fuel purchases, and the acquisition of new fishing vessels.The Minister also confirmed continued investment in aquaculture and marine research programmes.Bainivalu says a $350,000 allocation for the Makogai Research and Development Programme will support giant clam breeding, reef restocking, and the expansion of hatchery facilities with assistance from the Republic of Korea.The programme will also support resorts and community-managed marine protected areas.Responding to questions about previous setbacks, the Minister acknowledged losses caused by theft and the destruction of broodstock during Tropical Cyclone Winston in 2016, which forced the hatchery programme to restart.The Government has also allocated $300,000 to continue its Pearl Oyster Research and Development Programme, supporting pearl farming, technical training, and advisory services for participating communities.The Minister confirmed there is strong demand for the Commercial Aquaculture Development Grant, despite its allocation remaining at $750,000.