Blue economy holds enormous potential for development of various industries – Manoa Kamikamica

The Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Trade, Manoa Kamikamica, says in Fiji, the blue economy also holds enormous potential for the development of various industries such as food security, shipping and fisheries that can create new jobs, drive economic growth, and reduce our dependence on traditional sources of revenue.

Kamikamica says the Blue Accelerator Grant Scheme empowers the sustainable use of the ecosystem of our oceans to provide the necessary assistance to the private sector, including Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises, and co-operatives to unlock the development potential of Fiji’s blue economy.

The Minister says a large ocean state serves as a lifeline for economic growth, improved livelihoods and jobs.

He adds the new Coalition Government recognises the importance of taking innovative steps and bilateral arrangements to support critical sectors that create sustainable livelihoods.

He says the UNDP supports the first cohort of 8 projects that gives tangible meaning to Fiji’s blue economy, which is valued at FJ$8.8 million.

The Minister highlighted Justin Hunter’s project – Savusavu Community Edible Pearl Oyster Farms, which advocates for marine conservation and also the Uto ni Yalo Trust, a non-profit organisation.