Fiji and Kiribati have taken a major step in strengthening Pacific aquaculture cooperation after signing a landmark agreement focused on the farming and management of sandfish, a high-value sea cucumber species known locally in Fiji as Dairo.

The Memorandum of Understanding was signed by Fiji’s Minister for Fisheries and Forests, Alitia Bainivalu, and Kiribati’s Minister for Fisheries and Ocean Resources, Ribanataake Tiwau.

The agreement establishes a bilateral framework aimed at supporting sustainable aquaculture development while protecting marine ecosystems and biodiversity across the Pacific region.

Speaking during the signing ceremony, Minister Bainivalu said the partnership reflects a wider regional commitment to climate resilience, food security, sustainable ocean management and the advancement of the Blue Economy.

She said the Pacific Ocean remains central to the identity, livelihoods and future of Pacific island nations, stressing the importance of unity and cooperation as countries face increasing climate pressures and growing international demand for sea cucumber products.

Under the arrangement, Fiji will transfer between 100 and 150 sandfish broodstock to Kiribati throughout 2026. Each specimen will weigh approximately 300 to 400 grams and will undergo strict quarantine and health monitoring procedures at Fiji’s Galoa fisheries station before export.

The broodstock will remain under observation for at least two weeks in Fiji, where officials will carry out daily monitoring, waste management and preventative treatments to ensure biosecurity standards are met.

Upon arrival in Kiribati, the sandfish will be placed in a quarantine facility for a minimum of two months before any controlled release into the marine environment.

Both countries say the partnership will strengthen technical cooperation, protect marine ecosystems and support a more resilient Blue Pacific future.