Meeting participants listening attentively  

The National Fisheries Authority (NFA) is currently reviewing some of its key policy documents to increase the competency of the organization to participate actively to benefit economically and politically on the global arena.

A consultative meeting was on the 29^th to 30^th on July 2013, at Crown Plaza hotel in Port Moresby to grasp industry view on the key policy matters in view of increasing onshore investment. The meeting was well represented by key players in the fisheries industry and other relevant stake holders.

The managing director of NFA, Mr. Sylvester Pokajam his opening remarks gave an overview of the current industry status, policy development, investment trends and domestics focus.

“We are in the process of reviewing two key policy documents and they are one, the Tuna Development Management Plan and Fisheries Act”.

For the industry be competitive on the global arena, it requires competent people to create workable solutions. It is critical to review such policies to create a convergent point at the national, regional and global front.

Mr Pokajam said the review of the policies will ensure equal and effective participation and of PNG in the global market. The bottom line is to have policies that empower not just the industry players but also the ordinary Papua New Guineans to continue to sustainably harvest enough from their waters and to economically participate where applicable.

The policy review takes into consideration both the major and minor players in the fisheries industry in PNG as well as other relevant stake holders. Failing to do is believed to causes detrimental environmental, economical and political consequences.

Of the key issues address, Fisheries Management Policy (FMP) was frequently brought to light indicating its prominence. The FMP is a document that contain rules that safe guard managements and development of fisheries by ensuring sustainable and profitable operations for current and future generations.

Presentations covered current status of the industry as collectively viewed by major players and relevant stakeholders. Major developmental strategies and challenges were discussed and recommendations were made.