This 129-page overview report addresses opportunities for the development of the Pacific Islands’ mariculture sector in general terms. More specific analysis of opportunity in particular countries is presented in the five accompanying country reports (Cook Islands, Fiji, Papua New Guinea, Republic of the Marshall Islands and Solomon Islands).

In their general conclusions, authors note that their broad ranging analysis demonstrates one simple truth: we need to get away from the idea that mariculture is good and should be promoted. It is an option to be considered, and, given its often demanding/high risk attributes, development opportunities must be reviewed thoroughly and impartially.

The key to this is:

1. better development planning of mariculture within the wider processes of economic development planning and/or integrated coastal management;
2. more objective and informed project preparation and appraisal; and
3. probably a greater role for the private sector as a key partner in any government or aid promoted development project.

Throughout all of these processes should run the themes of more thorough and realistic market appraisal, and more thorough and realistic estimates of production, distribution and marketing costs.

Link to the PDF document (2.8 MB)