The Autonomous Bougainville Government (ABG) has reiterated that the harvesting and trading of beche-de-mer (sea cucumber) remains strictly prohibited across the region until further notice, despite recent confusion sparked by a national advertisement.
In a statement, Kenneth Dovaro, secretary of the ABG Department of Primary Industries and Marine Resources, confirmed that the five-year moratorium on beche-de-mer harvesting is still in effect and has not been lifted.
The clarification follows public concern after the National Fisheries Authority (NFA) published a notice in the Post-Courier on 9 July, titled “Call for Beche-de-Mer (BDM) Licence Application”. While the notice called on interested operators and businesses to apply for licences for future open seasons, it did not authorise any harvesting activity at present.
“The notice has unfortunately caused some confusion,” said Dovaro. “We wish to make it absolutely clear to all fishermen, women, youths, and coastal communities throughout Bougainville that the fishery remains closed. There should be no harvesting, processing, storing or trading of sea cucumbers at this time.”
He reminded the public that under the Fisheries Management Act 1998 and Fisheries Regulation 2000, engaging in any such activities before an official reopening is considered illegal and may attract serious penalties.
The Department is now appealing to all community government officials and leaders to help enforce the moratorium and ensure their communities comply with the directive.
“We’re relying on our community leaders to take charge and spread the word. This fishery is important to our people, and its sustainability depends on our collective discipline and cooperation,” Mr Dovaro said.
Ahead of the proposed open season, a joint awareness campaign will be rolled out by both ABG Fisheries and NFA teams. The sessions will cover licensing procedures, the fishery management plan, and guidelines on species protected under the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species (CITES).
For further information, the public is encouraged to visit the Department of Primary Industries & Marine Resources office located on Haku Street, Buka Town.
