Minister for Fisheries, Semi Koroilavesau says they expect to export about 30,000 metric tonnes of fish for the financial year 2021 to 2022 but this is subject to how we overcome limitations brought in on the nation by COVID-19.
He highlighted this while responding to a question by SODELPA MP and Shadow Minister for Fisheries, Simione Rasova on the prospect of fisheries in this financial year.
Koroilavesau says overcoming the second wave of COVID-19 is the most critical step in the process of boosting fish exports.
He says once this is addressed, fishers can freely access fishing grounds and slowly build a stock needed to meet processing and export demands.
The Minister says once COVID restrictions ease, Fiji would attract foreign fleets back to our shores to provide the needed raw materials for our processing facilities and this would further address logistical needs or shortage in shipment containers, cargo lines, and the need for frequent flights to fresh sashimi markets.
Koroilavesau confirms 60 fishing licences have been issued by the Ministry and all are to local companies.
He highlighted this while responding to a question by SODELPA MP, Niko Nawaikula on how many licences have been issued by the Ministry.
While responding to a question by SODELPA Leader, Viliame Gavoka on which fish is in most demand for export, Koroilavesau confirms 99% of export is tuna.
