Fisheries Minister Alitia Bainivalu has clarified that the Ministry of Fisheries lacks the legal authority to dictate the pricing of beche-de-mer, commonly known as sea cucumbers. During a recent discussion about compensation for fishermen involved in this sector, Bainivalu affirmed that price control is not encompassed within the Fisheries Act.
She stated, “With regards to the prices, the ministry has no power to regulate the price because it is not in the provisions of the Fisheries Act.” Despite this limitation, the minister highlighted that measures have been established to encourage transparency during the purchasing process.
Companies authorized to buy, process, and export beche-de-mer are required to present their proposed prices to the Ministry of Fisheries as part of their approval. Bainivalu noted that these firms have already submitted a list of purchasing prices they intend to offer fishermen. “We are hoping that these companies are buying at that price from the fishermen,” she said.
To enhance oversight and ensure compliance, approved buyers are mandated to operate from designated fisheries stations, where officials from the ministry can verify licenses, confirm species caught, and monitor adherence to the submitted pricing agreements. When pressed about specific price details, Bainivalu stated that such information is managed by a committee that oversees sea cucumber operations.
This regulatory framework aims to strengthen the fishing industry while ensuring that fishermen receive fair compensation in a transparent manner. As the Ministry of Fisheries navigates these challenges, it remains committed to fostering an environment that supports both industry growth and equitable practices.
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