Prime Minister James Marape has declared that the Fisheries sector has the potential to anchor up to half of Papua New Guinea’s economy,
Mr Marape said this when he commissioned the National Fisheries Authority Monitoring, Control and Surveillance (MCS) Command Centre in Daru, Western Province.
Addressing national and provincial leaders, development partners, and local communities, the Prime Minister said fisheries represented a strategic pillar in PNG’s journey towards full economic independence.
“Fisheries is a sector that could anchor, in my view, 40 to 50 percent of our economy going forward,” he said.
PM Marape emphasised that effective monitoring and enforcement are essential to unlocking this potential, ensuring that PNG’s vast marine resources are not exploited illegally or unsustainably.
“The number one responsibility of any sovereign nation is to ensure its resources and its people are safe,” he said.
The Prime Minister said the Daru Command Centre strengthened PNG’s physical presence in key strategic maritime areas, particularly in provinces bordering international waters.
“We are stepping up with technology, stepping up with partnerships, and stepping up with actual patrols on the sea,” he said.
He praised the collaboration between the National Fisheries Authority, the PNG Defence Force, border and immigration agencies, and international partners, including Australia and Indonesia, in combating illegal fishing, drug smuggling, and other transnational crimes.
“This is not a rundown democracy. Our institutions are functional, our security forces are operational, and our partners stand ready to work with us,” PM Marape said.
Turning to Western Province, Mr Marape acknowledged the region’s long-standing contribution to the national economy and reiterated the Government’s commitment to ensuring that resource-rich provinces directly benefit from development.
“Western Province has sustained this country for decades. Your contribution to the economic viability of PNG is recognised and appreciated,” he said.
He encouraged investors operating in the fisheries sector to support local participation and downstream value-adding.
“Incubate local SMEs, buy from local people, involve landowners, and work side by side with communities,” he said.
Mr Marape also commended the people of Daru for maintaining peace and order during the recent festive period, describing it as a sign of readiness for renewed growth and development.
“You have shown responsibility and pride in your town. The government will do its part as you do yours,” he said.
The Prime Minister concluded by reaffirming his vision of a secure, well-regulated Fisheries sector driving national prosperity.
“I am pleased that one of my first major engagements in 2026 is seeing policy translated into reality.
“Fisheries’ security is key to our economic independence, and this Command Center is a major step forward,” Prime Minister Marape said.