JAYAPURA — The Papua Provincial Government is targeting an increase in fishery product exports, especially tuna, as part of the development of the region's marine-based economy. This effort is being carried out by encouraging the processing of catches so they have a higher market value before being sold.

Papua Governor Matius D. Fakhiri said that Papua's marine potential is enormous and needs to be managed optimally, not only through fishing activities but also through the development of a processing industry.

"We will start with good marine management. Not only catching fish, but also building the industry," Fakhiri said in Jayapura.

According to him, progress in Papua's fisheries sector is beginning to show through exports of processed tuna products to overseas markets. In the latest shipment, Papua succeeded in exporting around 17 tons of processed tuna products.

That figure is expected to continue increasing along with the development of the marine sector in various coastal areas. One of the programs being prepared by the government is the development of Red and White Fishing Villages.

The program is expected to increase fishermen's productivity while also opening up new business opportunities in seafood processing.

"If previously we exported around 17 tons, in the future we will multiply that," the Governor said.

The Papua Provincial Government hopes that increased fishery exports will have a direct impact on the economy of coastal communities while also expanding the market for Papua's marine products. ***