IT is important to recognise the social and cultural impacts of the tuna industry, says Minister for Fisheries and Forests Kalaveti Ravu.

Speaking in Nadi at the opening of the regional tuna industry stakeholders’ discussions, he said the impact of the sector went beyond financial gains for the Pacific region.

“The tuna industry is a major contributor to the Fijian economy, providing employment opportunities and generating significant revenue for the country,” he said.

“I am fully aware of the significance of this industry to our country, both in terms of its economic impact and its potential for growth.

“We are committed to maximising this potential, while also ensuring that we are taking care of our ocean resources for future generations.

“As the Minister for Fisheries in Fiji, I understand the importance of addressing not only the economic benefits of the tuna industry but also the social and cultural impacts on our communities.

“Therefore, it is imperative that we work together to address these challenges and find solutions that consider both the economic benefits and the social and cultural impacts of the fishing industry.”

He said the region must also ensure the proper management of the tuna population.

“We must also ensure that we are responsibly managing our tuna resources. “This means working to ensure sustainable fishing practices and protecting the health of our ocean ecosystems.”

EU Delegation for the Pacific acting head Dr Erja Askola said the EU and the Pacific have a common interest and responsibility to make sure that tuna fisheries were managed in a sustainable way.

“There is an important human dimension to this, notably in terms of labour rights, working conditions and gender equality,” he said.

“Not simply as a matter of ensuring full respect for basic human rights, but also as a prerequisite for economic development and social equity to the benefit of Pacific communities.

“The Pacific-EU Marine Partnership provides the means to address a full spectrum of sustainability issues from ‘hook to plate’.”