Photo Credit: PNGI Central
The National Government is poised to launch the massive Pacific Marine Industrial Zone (PMIZ) Project, which would change Papua New Guinea from a coastline to a full-fledged fishing nation.
Dr Lino Tom, Minister of Fisheries and Marine Resources, organized a meeting in Madang recently to demonstrate the Pacific Marine Industrial Zone (PMIZ) Project's fisheries potential to the Treasury Department and the Madang Provincial Government.
Tom stated that the Fisheries Ministry and the NFA will work closely with Treasury on financing options in order to fully capitalize on the opportunity for the people and country to reassert the government's emphasis on 'Taking Back Fisheries,' as well as contribute to a collective action from across all sectors to 'Take Back PNG,' in collaboration with all stakeholders involved.
“PMIZ will contribute to developing a vibrant, broad base, and value-adding fisheries sector that will be globally competitive and domestically inclusive, providing revenue for the Government, wealth creation and food security for the people.
“This is a national project of paramount importance that will create jobs and growing our economy, this is a regional project that positions us as a competitive regional hub and global leader in the tuna economy,” said Tom.
“The project has been challenged, delayed and unresolved for over 15 years.
“The recent NEC decision to have the PMIZ sit under the ambit of NFA so it can be brought back on track is well overdue but timely.
“The project requires a whole of government approach through collective political bureaucratic will, harmonised legislative frame and policy support, effective cooperation and operational efficiency.
It now gives the Marape-Basil government the ability to move on with the vital project that was initially mandated by the government in 2008.
“Work with us to get the PMIZ back on track and finally bring this momentous vision to life,” said Tom.
Reference:
Post-Courier (15 June 2021). “NFA Ready To Implement PMIZ”
