The Fiji Blue Fishing Project officially launched with a two-day event in Suva on October 23\u201324, marking the start of an EU-funded initiative to strengthen sustainable fisheries and circular economy value chains in Fiji. The project is coordinated by the Institute for Research on Innovation and Services for Development of the National Research Council of Italy (Cnr-Iriss) and funded by the European Union SWITCH-Asia Programme under the EU Global Gateway strategy, with a total budget of EUR 1.87 million.<\/p>\n
Developed with a strong international partnership \u2014 including LMMA Network International Trust (Fiji), AMP Punta Campanella, Metellia Servizi, and Nuova Ulixes Cooperative (Italy) \u2014 Fiji Blue Fishing is the first and only EU SWITCH-Asia project in the Pacific region, a milestone for regional cooperation and a tangible contribution to the European Green Deal priorities.The project aims to make Fiji\u2019s fisheries and agri-food value chains more sustainable and resilient, improving livelihoods and fostering inclusive growth. It supports fishing communities in adopting sustainable practices, enhancing product quality, and accessing new markets and value-added opportunities for long-term economic and environmental sustainability.<\/p>\n
Serving as a national platform, the Kick-off presented the project\u2019s goals for sustainable fisheries, food security, and marine conservation, fostering collaboration among institutions, communities, and development partners. The first day included the initial Steering Committee meeting, attended by representatives of all partner organisations to discuss progress and plan next steps. Ms. Kim Edou (European Commission, Ocean Programme Manager) joined the session and praised the collaborative approach of the partners and the project\u2019s potential to drive sustainable innovation in the Pacific.<\/p>\n
The official launch, held on 24 October under the title\u00a0\u201cTransforming Fiji\u2019s Fisheries and Agri-Food Value Chain (2025\u20132028)\u201d<\/i>, brought together government institutions, local communities, and international partners to outline objectives and explore opportunities for collaboration. The event saw the participation of the European Union Ambassador to the Pacific, Barbara Plinkert; the Minister for Fisheries and Forests, Hon. Alitia Bainivalu; the Minister for Environment and Climate Change, Hon. Mosese Bulitavu; and the Minister for iTaukei Affairs, Hon. Ifereimi Vasu, alongside representatives of the EU Delegation for the Pacific, development partners, and research institutions.<\/p>\n
During the launch ceremony, a Memorandum of Understanding was signed between project partners and government institutions, reaffirming their commitment to sustainable fisheries and community-based innovation. The event also included thematic sessions and a panel discussion on\u00a0\u201cThe Challenges and Opportunities for Implementing the Circular Economy\u201d<\/i>, which addressed key issues such as marine pollution, post-harvest losses, and the role of solar-powered ice plants in improving the fisheries cold chain and community resilience.<\/p>\n
A breakout group on\u00a0\u201cCo-Design Pathways for Resilient Communities with Circular Economy\u201d<\/i>\u00a0provided a participatory space for stakeholders \u2014 including fisher associations, community representatives, and market actors \u2014 to share ideas on strengthening resilience, market access, and value-chain opportunities. As part of its awareness and capacity-building strategy, the project will also develop training activities, outreach campaigns, and technical missions to support fishermen\u2019s associations, promote eco-packaging and plastic recovery solutions, and facilitate access to green finance for small and medium enterprises.<\/p>\n
The mission and the launch event highlighted the project\u2019s strong collaborative spirit and scientific vision. \u201cThe enthusiasm and participation of local communities and institutions confirm that the conditions are in place for excellent collaboration,\u201d said Dr. Massimo Gacci, General Director of Open Plan Consulting, working on the project and participating in the scientific mission in Suva from 18 to 24 October, together with Manrico Benelli (Assignments Management & Accounting, Open Plan Consulting). \u201cThe project represents an important step in linking research, innovation, and community-based action to protect the ocean while creating new economic opportunities.\u201d<\/p>\n
\u201cFiji Blue Fishing stands as a meaningful step in strengthening cooperation between Europe and the Pacific for sustainable development,\u201d commented Dr. Gabriella Esposito, Senior Researcher at Cnr-Iriss and Scientific Coordinator of the project. \u201cBy combining scientific knowledge, local engagement, and innovative circular economy solutions, we aim to create lasting value for communities, ecosystems, and markets alike.\u201d<\/p>\n
Per informazioni:<\/strong> Vedi anche:<\/strong><\/p>\n
\nGabriella Esposito
\nCNR – Istituto di Ricerca su Innovazione e Servizi per lo Sviluppo
\ngabriella.esposito@cnr.it<\/a><\/p>\n