Optimizing Fisheries Benefits in the Pacific Islands : Major Issues and Constraints

In the last 10 years, World Bank activity in the fisheries sector of the Pacific Islands region has been limited to two regional economic reports, a study of coastal resources management, and a few technical assistance missions. The purpose of this study was to conduct a brief internal review of the Pacific fisheries sectors past performances, based on the existing literature and experience of the individuals involved. The report's main aim is to identify key constraints and past mitigating activities in fisheries in the Pacific Islands region, and activities supported by past donor, regional and national fisheries programs. In addition, the report examines the potential future role of the World Bank in the Pacific Islands region fisheries sector. This report's findings are intended as a starting point in this analysis. The next step is to facilitate a frank discussion about the potential World Bank role with key donors, regional institutions, and national government authorities currently involved in the sector. The record of past donor support suggests that while single donors have successfully implemented technical assistance and investment projects, they have, as a group, been less effective in addressing core sector issues such as: (a) the economically lopsided relationship between Pacific Island countries (PICs) and Distant Water Fishing Nations (DWFNs); (b) the economically sub-optimal management of tuna fisheries; and (c) enhancing PICs' share of the value added created by the region's tuna fishery.