There is an “unlimited market” for Papua New Guinea fish products in Europe but a concerted effort is needed from all stakeholders to fully realize the benefits, a tuna canner said.

Alex Bernardino, Frabelle (PNG) Ltd general manager, said importers were willing to buy “unlimited supplies” of local tuna products following accreditation from the EU Commission for Lae-based Frabelle.

The EU Commission had given Frabelle a 24% duty-free access to markets there – 4% more than the leading canned fish exporting countries of Thailand, Singapore, Philippines and Indonesia.

Madang-based RD Tuna Canners, the pioneer in tuna processing and canning in the country, was first to enjoy lower tariff for its canned tuna products in Europe after getting such accreditation some years ago.

Mr. Bernardino said the EU accreditation, along with certification from other buyers, would boost PNG tuna product exports to Europe.

“This will open the flood-gates for investors to invest in PNG’s vibrant tuna industry,” Mr. Bernardino said.

The Filipino-owned company exports cooked and frozen tuna loins and canned tuna to European markets. The main tuna products exported are yellow-fin and skip-jack.

Mr. Bernardino revealed major expansion plans in its facilities by investing in equipment and physical structure and doubling of staff and production.

“We need to maximize the opportunity by expanding our capacity to produce,” he said.

Work was continuing with Frabelle to double its current production capacity at an average of 60mt daily to 120 tons and to increase its staff from the current 1,100 to over 2,000 within the next six months.

PNG is located along the tuna highway and the National Fisheries Authority (NFA) is strictly monitoring catches to ensure proper management and stable supply of tuna stocks.

Mr. Bernardino wanted more support from Government, particularly from the Morobe provincial government, in terms of infrastructure.

He was hoping the National and provincial governments would provide more incentives for businesses.

The EU Commission had deputized the NFA to monitor and ensure Frabelle adhered to standards imposed by the EU.

These include food safety, hygiene and sanitation and good management practices.