KOROR (Island Times/Pacnews) — Palau’s Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Environment Steven Victor is considering the potential of a local milkfish industry.
Victor said milkfish is a species farmed in Palau and is affordable to the local population.
He said the government sees the potential of Palau exporting milkfish fry and providing fish to the domestic market as well as small milkfish that can be used as bait by longliners.
“The approach is developing an aquaculture industry that [also] helps support the longline domestic fishing industry in terms of bait and therefore, they don’t have to import the expensive bait that will make the cost of fish expensive. Milkfish can also contribute to Palau’s protein source, food security, livelihood and economic opportunity for our people,” he added.
The reorganized Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries and Environment now has a bureau tasked to explore, survey, develop, manage, and conserve all near-shore marine resources of Palau.
Victor reiterated the need to support the livelihood of Palauans through an increase in fisheries and agriculture production that is sustainable and will protect the environment.
The ministry will focus on the development of aquaculture through enhanced research and development, and will provide seedlings to promote sustainable aquaculture in Palau.
The ministry includes a Division of Livestock which aims to design sustainable livestock facilities and provide animal feed, instructions, and veterinary services.
