Authors: Ben Ponia

Title: A review of aquaculture in the Pacific Islands 1998-2007

Source: SPC

Date : 2010

Keywords: Aquaculture review, statistics, production volumes, aquaculture values

Abstract: A provisional desktop review of aquaculture in the Pacific was carried out by the Secretariat of the Pacific Community (SPC) on behalf of its 22 Pacific Island member countries and territories in order to bridge an information gap. During the period 1998 to 2007 a peak value of USD 222 million was recorded in 1999 and in 2005, associated with high levels of pearl and shrimp respectively. The maximum volume was 6,900 metric tonnes (t) in 2005. In 2007 the region's production was worth USD 211 million and volume was 5,300 t. Aquaculture has an important role in diversifying trade, increasing capacity for fisheries production, and contributing to rural development. One of the immediate challenges to overcome is to provide a suitable investment climate for private enterprises.