The Ministry of Fisheries is implementing strict internal austerity to pivot resources toward long-term aquaculture development, research infrastructure, and strategic support for local resource owners.
The ministry received an increased allocation of $28.4million in the 2026-2027 National Budget – an increase of $3.83m compared to the allocation in the 2025-2026 fiscal year of $24.6m.
Responding to the 2026-2027 National Budget in Parliament last week, Minister for Fisheries and Forestry Alitia Bainivalu said the increased allocation reflected the Government’s commitment to developing fisheries as a key contributor to the economy.
Ms Bainivalu said the increase represented a 1.6 per cent growth, which she added was a clear signal of the Government’s confidence in the fisheries sector as a driver of sustainable economic growth and to support the country’s well-being.
She said the increase had been strategically planned to support resource owners and guide future investment.
“This increase is not arbitrary,” Ms Banivalu said.
“It reflects a strategic forecast and provides confidence and direction for investing in our resource owners.”
Ms Bainivalu said while the ministry’s operating budget had been reduced, the focus was on improving efficiency and directing more resources towards long-term development.
“Operating expenditure has been reduced by $581,200 (down by 5.1 per cent), requiring tighter controls on wages, allowances, travel, and maintenance.”
She said capital investment had risen significantly to strengthen the sector’s resilience.
“Capital expenditure has increased by $4,685,300 (up by 47 per cent), prioritising on infrastructure, research facilities, and grants (offshore Fisheries and Aquaculture), that will strengthen long-term resilience and productivity.”
