Fiji’s fishing industry has provided formal employment to hundreds of Fijians, a significant number of whom are women.
Minister for Fisheries and Forestry Alitia Bainivalu told Parliament that most of the women were working in processing roles.
“This employment is a catalyst for social development, actively supporting government policies on decentralization, the empowerment of women, and private-sector growth,” Ms Bainivalu said.
“Across the Pacific, the tuna industry provides essential jobs for tens of thousands of people.
“Here in Fiji, the South Pacific Albacore is integral to our people’s economic resilience and well-being.
“It sustains our local processing industries, providing a crucial source of protein and economic stability.”
She said to build a more resilient and robust fisheries sector, Government had allocated $24.9 million in the 2025-2026 Budget for a comprehensive fisheries overhaul and to strengthen and improve the sector’s contribution.
