The Papua New Guinea (PNG) National Fisheries Authority (NFA) has presented K402 million as its contribution under the Non-Tax Administration (NTRA) Act to the National Government’s Treasury Department on Wednesday at APEC HAUS in Port Moresby.
In attendance at this event were NFA Managing Director Justin IIakini, Minister for Fisheries and Marine Resources Hon. Jelta Wong, Minister for Treasury Hon. Ian Ling-Stuckey, Prime Minister James Marape, and senior officials from the Fisheries Department.
During the presentation, Mr. IIakini expressed gratitude to the Treasury Minister for their collaboration and for enabling the NFA to effectively manage and oversee PNG’s marine resources.
He stated, “This will be further reinforced by the new domestication policy set to be implemented early next year, which will significantly reduce leakages within our industry.”
“I would also like to extend my appreciation to the board. They have made commendable decisions to ensure the sustainability of the industry, and all individuals involved in the fisheries sector,” Mr. IIakini remarked.
The Minister for Treasury conveyed his appreciation on behalf of his department and the National Government upon receiving this contribution.
“On behalf of the Treasury and all relevant governmental sectors, including ministries and departments of finance and planning, I am pleased to stand here today to accept this remarkable Christmas gift.”
“This contribution is part of our non-tax revenue component within our budget. We are currently somewhat behind in non-tax revenue, as we clearly articulated in our statements before Federal Parliament.”
He emphasized that the NFA serves as a model for other government agencies operating under the NTRA sector in their ongoing support for government initiatives.
He further noted that the Treasury Department will continue its collaboration with the NFA in support of its five-year plans.
Prime Minister James Marape echoed the Finance Minister’s acknowledgment towards the NFA and commended Hon. Wong’s leadership in addition to recognizing contributions from the NFA Board Chairman regarding substantial funding provided to government initiatives.
“This underscores that fisheries play a significant role within the non-resource sector.” PM Marape said.
Moreover, he highlighted that national budgeting is fundamentally aimed at benefiting citizens: financing education, health services, infrastructure development, and law enforcement.
“I look forward to achieving even greater outcomes by 2025,” PM Marape added.