$20 million worth of aquaculture products still imported into the country - Koroilavesau

“Fiji still imports around $20 million worth of aquaculture products into the country.”

This was revealed by the Minister for Fisheries Semi Koroilavesau while responding to questions raised by FijiFirst MP Ruveni Nadalo on how the Ministry of Fisheries is making the Aquaculture Sector conducive to investment.

Koroilavesau says that they attempted to reduce this import amount in previous years however studies have revealed that to be able to meet local demand in the sector, farmers need capital to sustain their operations.

He adds that they are promoting good governance as a key ingredient to attracting investors.

Koroilavesau adds that they are currently working with the Ministry of Environment, Investment Fiji, Fiji Revenue Customs and Authority and Biosecurity Authority of Fiji in providing the right advice and assistance to potential investors.

He went on to say that the ministry currently has plans to improve the aquaculture hatch seed supplies.

Meanwhile Opposition MP Ratu Kiniviliame Kiliraki says that the Pearl industry is an important part of the Aquaculture Industry.

Kiliraki says that Hunter Bay was badly devastated in the Tropical Cyclone Winston last year.

He asked if there is a provision in the policy by the Ministry of Fisheries to safeguard the investors in terms of the usage of bays and areas to get confidence in investment.

Koroilavesau says they have brought in technical expertise to assist the locals.